Haval is part of the Chinese vehicle manufacturer Great Wall Motors (now rebranded as GWM) whose local line-up comprises the recently released small SUV, Jolion, and the new GWM Cannon Ute.

The brand isn’t that well known here but claims number one SUV status in its home market.

Joining Haval’s local ranks recently is a new-generation H6 SUV that’s significantly better than the model it replaces.

The H6 has a generous array of equipment and advanced safety features at driveaway prices that are sharper than most competitors.

Buyers have a choice of front or all-wheel drive, both powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine or a singular 1.5-litre turbo-hybrid priced at the top of the range.

The non-hybrid models start at $31,990 for the front-drive Premium, ascending through Lux and Ultra variants to the top-shelf Vanta at $39,990.

All-paw models only come in the two highest specs at a $2,000 premium over their front-drive equivalent.

The enhanced H6 GT is also due soon, but it’ll also be petrol, so anyone wanting diesel power should look elsewhere.

The 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine musters maximum outputs of 150kW and 320Nm and is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch auto gearbox.

Performance is solid enough with maximum torque usefully spread between 1500 and 4000rpm.

However, there’s some initial lag before the engine finds its sweet spot, which can be disconcerting when attempting a quick getaway from an intersection.

On the plus side, the engine sound is noticeably more refined than the smaller-capacity Jolion.

The H6 is easy to drive – its combination of reasonably soft and comfortable ride and handling sure to fulfil many buyers’ expectations.

While it’s secure and competent, the H6 couldn’t be described as remotely sporty and it lacks the dynamic polish of the best Japanese and Korean models in this class.

A narrow rear window restricts rearward vision somewhat, but parking the H6 is easy thanks to a multi-view camera and park sensors fore and aft.

Buyers who spend the extra to step up to the Ultra variant also score a self-park system, which anyone petrified by squeezy carparks will appreciate.

The cabin and cargo area are decently spacious for this class, while fit and finish are noticeably more upmarket than the smaller and cheaper Jolion.

Some notable equipment omissions on our Lux tester were DAB+ radio, satellite navigation and cargo tie points.

The H6’s keen price will be enough to attract the attention of budget-conscious medium-SUV buyers, while its generally pleasant driving manners and the confidence of a seven-year unlimited-kilometre warranty, plus five years capped price servicing, should be enough to convert more than a few to the Haval fold.

Key stats

• MLP: $34,990 driveaway.
• ENGINE: 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder.
• ANCAP SAFETY RATING: Not rated.
• FUEL CONSUMPTION: (combined cycle, litres/100km): 7.4 (169g/km CO2).
• FOR: Big on space, well equipped, agreeably priced, respectable but not class-leading driving experience, good looks, long warranty.
• AGAINST: Space-saver spare, a few equipment omissions, engine lag off the line, narrow rear window, no diesel option.