Some say that in the adult world, you don’t have to choose—especially when buying a premium SUV. Consumers’ attitude is: “I want it all!” In the premium SUV market, the Haval H9 stands out as a breakthrough against foreign brands, setting a technological benchmark and raising the flag for China’s high-end SUVs. If we say the second evolution of the Haval H9-2020 model matches German luxury brands in configuration and comfort, then as Haval’s flagship hard-core SUV, with its unique “three locks” under 400,000 RMB, CCO low-speed off-road cruise, and tank-turning functions rivaling million-dollar off-roaders, it surpasses its joint-venture counterparts. Its arrival has leveled the playing field, making foreign SUVs no longer seem so superior. With comprehensive upgrades in performance, interior, and features, it has become a proud standout in the premium SUV market. Today, we compare the Haval H9-2020 model with the German luxury SUV Volkswagen Tuo'ang to see how the top domestic level stacks up against the German one.
Haval delivers better performance—both are SUVs, but with big differences.
When it comes to performance, the Haval H9-2020 model uses a 2.0T high-power engine with a maximum output of 165kW. Torque has increased by 30N·m compared to the previous model, reaching 385N·m. Meanwhile, the upgraded engine only requires 92-octane fuel, showing stronger fuel adaptability (easy to maintain!).
Thanks to the Haval H9-2020 model’s powerful low-speed, high-torque advantage, acceleration is effortless, overtaking is smooth, and daily driving feels very easy. On highways, speeds of 140–150 km/h are easily achievable (always remember not to speed!), and even on rugged off-road trails during trips, it doesn’t disappoint.
In comparison, the Volkswagen Tuo'ang’s horsepower is less than 200—quite underwhelming. Also, being positioned as a business SUV, its off-road performance naturally lags behind the Haval H9-2020 model. Since I’m after performance, the Haval H9-2020 model’s “all-terrain off-road” capability is far more appealing.
Additionally, the Haval H9-2020 model is equipped with ZF’s 8-speed automatic transmission, tuned to international standards. Whether in gear-shifting speed or smoothness, it’s among the best in hard-core SUVs. This type of transmission is also found in luxury flagship models like the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Bentley Bentayga, and Range Rover. The abundant power, paired with fast and smooth gear shifts, allows me to fully enjoy the driving pleasure on off-road journeys.
By contrast, the Tuo'ang uses a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (suddenly reminds me of the DSG dual-clutch quality issues Volkswagen once faced in China). In terms of smoothness and response speed, the Haval H9-2020 model’s transmission performs better.
Most notably, the Haval H9-2020 model has also made significant improvements in off-road capability. It uses an intelligent four-wheel-drive system from BorgWarner and is equipped with an advanced all-terrain system, featuring multiple driving modes including Auto, Mud, Sand, Snow, Sport, and Low-Speed 4WD, capable of handling various complex road conditions with ease. Moreover, for getting out of tough spots, the Haval H9-2020 model is equipped with the essential “three locks” for off-road toughness—the front and rear axles use electrically controlled mechanical differential locks, and the central two-speed TOD can be locked. This high-end setup gives the Haval H9-2020 model off-road escape capabilities comparable to the Mercedes-Benz G-Class. The vehicle is also equipped with off-road tech like CCO low-speed off-road cruise and tank turns, helping drivers easily navigate through complex terrain. In contrast, the Tuo'ang’s weak off-road ability seems quite redundant.
Both interiors have their charm, but Haval shows more luxury in details.
Besides performance, I’m also quite particular—if not picky—about car interiors. In my impression, hard-core off-roaders usually don’t score well in interior and features, but the Haval H9-2020 model’s interior and configurations are outstanding. Not only are the materials and craftsmanship solid, but the features are also high-end, which truly exceeded my expectations.
Stepping into the Haval H9-2020 model, the refined Morris Brown interior color scheme and thoughtful design showcase exquisite craftsmanship. The seats and door panels feature diamond-quilted stitching and perforated designs, perfectly balancing aesthetics and breathability. The full LCD instrument panel and electronic gear shifter feel premium, while the center console lines are clear, with some areas adorned with wood trim. The multifunctional steering wheel is fuller and accented with silver trim.
Compared to the Haval H9-2020 model, the Volkswagen Tuo'ang’s interior isn’t bad either, but perhaps due to the details, it doesn’t give me the same sense of luxury. For example, aside from a small amount of soft material on the upper part, the lower sections are all large areas of hard plastic, giving off a somewhat cheap vibe.
Tech-savvy Tuo'ang is somewhat conservative, while Haval H9’s high-tech features are more abundant.
Performance and interior aren’t enough—I’m equally demanding when it comes to features.
Speaking of features, the Haval H9-2020 model’s center console area uses a multifunctional embedded large screen, a unique electronic gear shifter, and a full all-terrain feedback system with five driving modes, dual-mode cloud navigation, remote control, AI vehicle connectivity, wireless charging, a rear armrest LCD screen, panoramic sunroof, steering wheel paddle shifters and heating, rear seat electric adjustment, electric seat memory, front seat ventilation and massage, cornering assist lights, and headlight cleaning devices—among many other high-tech features.
Additionally, the Premium Large Five-Seat model adds a rear armrest touchscreen, allowing rear passengers to freely adjust settings to their liking. High-end brand features like the Harman Kardon Infinity sound system and electric side steps not only give me, but also my travel companions, a taste of luxury and enjoyment.
Moreover, for safety, in addition to the above features, the Haval H9-2020 model is also equipped with functions like lane-change assist, lane-departure warning, active braking, a panoramic camera, adaptive cruise control, and hill-descent control to ensure driving safety.
In comparison, while the Tuo'ang comes standard with multiple airbags, including side curtains, ESP anti-skid, hill-start assist, and auto hold, it is somewhat lacking in feature richness. For instance, it lacks many of the Haval H9-2020 model’s features such as lane-change assist, lane-departure warning, and active braking. So it’s fair to say the Haval H9-2020 model is a bit safer.
In closing
Since its launch, the Volkswagen Tuo'ang has received widespread praise and become a representative of German SUVs. However, its mediocre power, interior, and overly conservative tech features leave it with less competitiveness—such a shame for a solid foundation. Sticking to the middle path may have worked in China’s car market in the past, but nowadays, without going all-in with sincerity and capability, it’s hard to win consumer approval. The Haval H9-2020 model, however, shows a different kind of dedication. Whether in terms of luxury or ruggedness, the Haval H9 fully earns its status as the flagship of the Haval brand and a benchmark for domestic premium SUVs. That’s why we have reason to believe the Haval H9-2020 model can pave the way for the development of China’s independently branded premium SUVs.