The 2025 Haval Jolion continues Great Wall Motors’ strategy to deliver affordable, stylish, and tech-packed compact SUVs that rival established Japanese and Korean names. For 2025, Haval refines the Jolion’s design and interior comfort while keeping its strong value appeal intact.
The Jolion has evolved into one of Haval’s global success stories, now offered in both petrol and hybrid forms. In this review, we’ll explore what makes the 2025 Jolion worth considering, where it falls short, and whether it’s the smart buy it promises to be.
Model Overview & History
Origins and Platform
The Haval Jolion rides on Great Wall Motors’ modular L.E.M.O.N platform, a foundation shared across several GWM models. This architecture emphasizes weight reduction, rigidity, and adaptability for internal combustion and hybrid systems.
Originally introduced in 2021, the Jolion replaced the older H2 SUV and was positioned as a more modern, globally competitive product. In 2025, it retains its compact-SUV footprint while adopting subtle styling and equipment updates.
Market Presence
The Jolion is sold across multiple global markets, including Australia, South Africa, Thailand, and Pakistan, often assembled locally for cost efficiency. The 2025 lineup continues to use simplified trims such as Premium, Lux, and Ultra Hybrid, while some regions now refer to the refreshed design as Jolion Pro.
Exterior & Styling
Haval’s 2025 facelift brings subtle yet meaningful updates. The front grille features a bolder mesh pattern framed by matrix LED headlights, giving it a more premium look. Sharp DRL strips and sculpted bumpers enhance visual aggression, aligning it with the modern design language of GWM’s newer crossovers.
At 4,472 mm long and 1,841 mm wide, the Jolion remains compact enough for urban use but large enough for family duties. Wheel designs range from 17 to 18 inches depending on trim, while color options include vivid tones such as Golden Black, Hamilton White, and Mars Red.
Though it borrows cues from larger Haval SUVs, the Jolion’s proportions keep it sporty and approachable. Its styling feels more youthful than rivals like the MG ZS or Kia Seltos, which is key to its growing popularity among first-time SUV buyers.
Interior, Comfort & Practicality
Inside, the 2025 Haval Jolion surprises with its premium feel. Soft-touch materials line the dashboard, and a minimalist layout centers around a 12.3-inch touchscreen with smartphone mirroring, navigation, and over-the-air update capability. A 7-inch digital driver cluster displays configurable driving data.
The steering wheel design, electronic shifter, and integrated ambient lighting make the cabin look upscale, even when compared with more expensive models. The seats offer strong lateral support, and the top trims gain power adjustment and heating.
Space is another highlight. With a wheelbase of 2,700 mm, the Jolion offers excellent rear legroom and a roomy 430-liter boot, expandable by folding the rear seats. However, the hybrid variant slightly reduces luggage volume due to the battery placement beneath the rear floor.
Practical touches like wireless charging, dual-zone climate control, and rear vents make daily commuting easy. Build quality has improved significantly over early Haval models, giving the Jolion a solid, refined impression.
Powertrains & Performance
Petrol Engine
The standard 2025 Jolion continues with a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine, producing 110 kW (147 hp) and 220 Nm of torque. Power is delivered through a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission to the front wheels.
On the road, the petrol model delivers smooth acceleration and solid mid-range punch, though the gearbox can feel hesitant in stop-and-go traffic. The claimed combined fuel economy hovers around 7.5 L/100 km, with real-world tests averaging closer to 8 L/100 km.
Ride quality remains soft, tuned for comfort rather than sportiness. Light steering and good outward visibility make it ideal for city driving.
Hybrid (Jolion HEV / Pro)
The highlight of the range is the Jolion Hybrid, pairing a 1.5-liter petrol engine with an electric motor for a combined output of 140 kW (190 hp) and 375 Nm of torque. This setup uses a dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT) rather than a CVT, delivering smoother transitions between petrol and electric power.
In urban traffic, the hybrid operates silently at low speeds, while highway driving is confident and composed. The 0–100 km/h sprint takes about 8 seconds, making it one of the quickest in its class. Fuel economy improves dramatically to 4.2–5.0 L/100 km, depending on driving style.
Reviews from outlets like CarExpert and Driven NZ note that the hybrid’s refinement rivals Japanese systems, though occasional engine flare-ups under heavy throttle still occur.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Haval loads the Jolion with a full suite of ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), including:
- Forward Collision Warning and AEB
- Lane Departure and Lane Keep Assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Driver Monitoring System
- Blind-Spot Detection and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
However, testers have noted that some alerts are overly sensitive, often issuing warnings for minor deviations. The car’s constant beeping has become a meme among reviewers, as mentioned by Carscoops in their 2025 review.
While ANCAP’s official 2025 rating hasn’t yet been published, earlier Jolion models achieved five stars, and the structure remains fundamentally unchanged.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Affordable entry price with strong feature list
- Smooth, efficient hybrid system
- Spacious interior and good build quality
- Long warranty coverage (up to 7 years in some markets)
Cons:
- Overly talkative safety systems
- Slightly laggy dual-clutch gearbox in traffic
- Average infotainment software response
- Boot space reduction in hybrid variant
Pricing, Variants & Ownership
Pricing varies by market, but the Jolion remains one of the most affordable hybrids on sale.
| Trim | Powertrain | Approx. Price (AUD) | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premium | 1.5T Petrol | $28,490 | 17-inch wheels, LED headlights |
| Lux | 1.5T Petrol | $30,990 | Panoramic roof, leather trim |
| Ultra Hybrid | 1.5 HEV | $36,990 | Advanced safety, 12.3-inch display, DHT gearbox |
Maintenance intervals are set at 10,000 km or 12 months, with competitive service costs. Warranty coverage typically includes 7 years / unlimited km, and 8 years on the hybrid battery.
Depreciation remains moderate; resale strength is improving as Haval’s brand perception grows.
Competitors & Comparisons
The 2025 Haval Jolion competes with several compact SUVs:
| Model | Powertrain | Combined Fuel Economy | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Haval Jolion Hybrid | 1.5 HEV | 4.5 L/100 km | $36,990 |
| MG ZS EV | Electric | 0 L/100 km | $39,990 |
| Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid | 1.8 HEV | 4.3 L/100 km | $35,500 |
| Hyundai Kona Hybrid | 1.6 HEV | 4.4 L/100 km | $37,000 |
When compared to EV options such as the Hyundai Ioniq 9, the Jolion focuses on affordability and simplicity. It doesn’t offer full electrification, but its hybrid efficiency and lower upfront cost make it appealing to buyers hesitant to jump into full EV ownership.
Is It a Good Buy in 2025?
The 2025 Haval Jolion is a compelling value proposition in the small-SUV segment. It blends eye-catching design, impressive cabin quality, and hybrid efficiency without breaking the budget.
While its ADAS systems can feel intrusive and infotainment could be smoother, these are minor drawbacks considering the overall package. The hybrid variant, in particular, delivers excellent economy and refinement that challenge the best from Toyota and Hyundai.
For urban drivers or families seeking a tech-forward, efficient compact SUV, the Haval Jolion 2025 stands out as one of the best choices under $40K.
FAQs
What engine does the 2025 Haval Jolion use?
It uses a 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine in base trims or a hybrid system with an electric motor and dedicated hybrid transmission.
What is the fuel economy of the hybrid?
The Jolion Hybrid averages between 4.2 and 5.0 L/100 km, depending on driving conditions.
Does every market get the hybrid version?
Not yet. Some countries still offer only the petrol Jolion, while others get the hybrid or Jolion Pro variant.
How big is the boot?
Petrol versions offer around 430 liters, while the hybrid has slightly less due to battery placement.
Is it worth buying in 2025?
Yes, if you value features, comfort, and hybrid efficiency at an affordable price.
