Great Wall Motor (GWM) has officially opened presales for the Haval Menglong Plus (known in China as the Raptor V7 Plus), marking a strategic expansion of its Hi4 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) lineup. Starting at approximately $27,800 (189,800 yuan), the new model aims to bridge the gap between rugged off-road capability and practical family utility.
Expanding the Footprint: From Off-Roader to Family Hauler
The “Plus” designation is more than just a name change; it signifies a physical evolution of the vehicle. While maintaining the brand’s signature “boxy” aesthetic and squared-off headlights, the Menglong Plus has grown significantly to meet the demands of larger households.
Key physical upgrades include:
– Increased Dimensions: The vehicle now measures 4,912 mm in length with a 2,850 mm wheelbase.
– Versatile Seating: Unlike its predecessor, the Plus offers both five-seat and seven-seat configurations, allowing it to compete in the much larger family SUV segment.
– Advanced Tech Integration: The addition of roof-mounted LiDAR signals a move toward higher-level autonomous driving, specifically targeting highway and urban navigation assistance.
Performance and the Hi4 Hybrid System
At the heart of the Menglong Plus is GWM’s Hi4 plug-in hybrid system. By pairing a 1.5T engine with dual electric motors, the vehicle delivers a robust total output of 330 kW and 660 Nm of torque, enabling a 0–100 km/h sprint in just 5.8 seconds.
The most significant advantage for daily commuters is the extended electric range. Depending on the battery choice (ranging from 23.7 kWh to 44.7 kWh), the model offers:
– Pure EV Range: Up to 255 km (CLTC cycle).
– Total Combined Range: Exceeding 1,000 km (WLTC cycle).
This dual-range capability is a key trend in the current Chinese automotive market, where manufacturers are pushing PHEVs to offer enough electric range to cover most daily commutes without fuel, while maintaining long-distance viability via the petrol engine.
Balancing Ruggedness with Modern Comfort
Despite its shift toward family utility, GWM has not abandoned the vehicle’s off-road DNA. The Menglong Plus remains highly capable in challenging terrain, featuring:
– Ground Clearance: 221 mm.
– Wading Depth: 580 mm.
– Mechanical Aids: A rear axle differential lock, crawl mode, and steering assist.
Inside, the cabin has been modernized to feel more like a premium passenger vehicle. The digital cockpit features a full LCD instrument panel, a head-up display (HUD), and a floating central touchscreen. Notably, GWM has retained physical buttons below the screen, a design choice that prioritizes driver ergonomics and ease of use during transit.
Summary
The Haval Menglong Plus represents GWM’s attempt to capture a broader market by blending high-performance hybrid technology with the practical needs of a seven-seat family SUV. By combining long-range electric capability with proven off-road hardware, it positions itself as a versatile tool for both urban commuting and weekend adventures.
