The Evolution of the 2024 GWM Haval Jolion: Redefining Small SUV Dynamics

GWM is gearing up to unveil an enhanced version of its renowned vehicle in the Australian market, signaling a pivotal moment in the evolution of its small SUV lineup.

Fresh from the press of government approval documents, the rejuvenated GWM Haval Jolion showcases a captivating blend of revised styling cues both upfront and at the rear.

The design overhaul notably echoes the aesthetic prowess of the Thai-market Jolion Hybrid, as evidenced by the revamped front fascia. Among the prominent updates are the introduction of a sleek vertical bar grille, replacing the conventional chrome mesh, and subtle refinements to the front and rear bumper areas. Adding to the allure, a striking GWM wordmark now adorns the tailgate, subtly shifting the brand’s visual narrative away from the Haval insignia it previously championed as a standalone entity.

While the iconic kinked LED daytime running lights characteristic of petrol-powered Jolions endure, no discernible alterations are anticipated within the cabin, drawing parallels with the Thai-market counterpart.

With the green light for its Australian debut, the facelifted Jolion is poised for a potential launch in 2024, introducing two distinctive variants stamped with the ‘FL’ insignia denoting facelift, each powered by a robust 105kW turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine. Interestingly, the absence of facelifted S or hybrid iterations in the documentation raises intriguing speculations about the brand’s future strategy for the Jolion.

While GWM remains tight-lipped about its forthcoming plans for the Jolion, recent sightings of the Haval Chitu, affectionately known as the Red Rabbit, undergoing rigorous testing in the Australian terrain add an element of mystery to the narrative. Acknowledging the standard practice of importing models from overseas markets for evaluation, GWM’s Australian spokesperson hinted at the potential integration of the Red Rabbit into the local lineup, albeit stopping short of a definitive confirmation.

The looming question of whether the Chitu will emerge as a formidable contender in the Australian market, potentially supplanting the Jolion S, Lux Hybrid, and Ultra Hybrid variants, remains shrouded in uncertainty. Despite sharing striking similarities in dimensions with the Jolion, including an identical wheelbase and marginal variations in overall length and width, the Chitu exudes a sportier demeanor, hinting at a new chapter in GWM’s SUV saga.

While the Jolion bids adieu to the Chinese market, its production for international territories, including Australia and Thailand, persists, underscoring its enduring global appeal.

Across the seas, GWM’s strategic maneuvers are also underway, with the impending launch of the Chitu in South Africa under the moniker of Jolion Pro. Positioned above its predecessor, the Jolion, the Pro variant bids farewell to its hybrid counterparts, signaling a recalibration of GWM’s product portfolio in the region.

Reports from The Citizen shed light on the Jolion Pro’s formidable powertrain configuration, boasting a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering an impressive 130kW of power and 270Nm of torque, mated to a refined seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Additionally, a hybrid powertrain variant akin to the Jolion Hybrid is poised to further diversify the Pro’s appeal.

The transition to right-hand drive seamlessly integrates the Chitu/Jolion Pro with the Jolion’s dashboard, showcasing GWM’s commitment to harmonizing design elements across its diverse lineup.

Should the Haval Chitu make its grand entrance into the Australian market, it promises to inject a newfound dynamism into the small SUV segment, challenging the dominance of incumbents like the MG ZS family. As GWM endeavors to carve its niche in this fiercely competitive landscape, the stage is set for an exhilarating showdown, marking the dawn of a new era in SUV excellence.

GWM is gearing up to launch an updated version of its popular small SUV, the Haval Jolion, in Australia. This refreshed model boasts revised styling cues, including a new vertical bar grille, tweaked bumpers, and the addition of a GWM wordmark on the tailgate. While the facelifted Jolion has received approval for sale in Australia, details regarding its future lineup remain uncertain.

Interestingly, sightings of the Haval Chitu, known as the Red Rabbit, undergoing testing in Australia have sparked speculation about its potential inclusion in the local market. This crossover, almost identical in size to the Jolion, could potentially replace certain Jolion variants. However, GWM has yet to confirm its plans for the Chitu in Australia.

In South Africa, GWM has already launched the Chitu as the Jolion Pro. Positioned above the Jolion, the Pro variant offers powerful engine options, including a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 130kW of power and 270Nm of torque, as well as a hybrid powertrain variant. With the transition to right-hand drive, the Chitu/Jolion Pro now features the Jolion’s dashboard, showcasing GWM’s commitment to consistency across its lineup.

The potential introduction of the Chitu in Australia could significantly impact the small SUV segment, challenging competitors like the MG ZS family. While GWM sold 11,252 Haval Jolions in Australia, the MG ZS family dominated with 29,258 units sold in 2023. The arrival of the Chitu could signal a new era of competition in the market, prompting consumers to reconsider their options in the small SUV segment.

Overall, GWM’s strategic maneuvers, including the introduction of the facelifted Jolion and the potential inclusion of the Chitu in Australia, underscore its commitment to diversifying its product offerings and expanding its presence in the highly competitive SUV market. As consumers eagerly await further developments, the stage is set for an exciting evolution in GWM’s SUV lineup.