Plug-in hybrids are gaining traction - I’ve been driving the new GWM Haval H6 GT Ultra plug-in hybrid or PHEV, this fast back style SUV has been around in pure petrol form for several years and it has a nice profile. The plug-in hybrid version utilises a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine with front and rear electric motors, a performance model with 342kW and 762Nm of torque, more powerful to the petrol model and gaining bigger brakes in the process but $9,000 dearer at $53,990 drive-away. It features 180kms of electric only range from a high voltage 35.4kWhour battery. Overall, a comfortable five-seater, nicely finished and very highly equipped apart from the lack of a space saver spare wheel, replaced with the dreaded tyre repair kit. But retaining nice seats in combination suede and leather, power heated and ventilated in the front, a power tailgate, heated steering wheel, a 360-degree camera, a few more drive modes to the petrol model and a swag of driver assist systems. The Haval H6 GT Ultra, a performance skewed plug-in hybrid features the usual touchscreen, not user friendly, and at times a frustrating to use interface. Warranty 7-years/unlimited kilometre, battery warranty 8-years with capped price servicing most reasonable.

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