It was around two months ago when GWM Philippines officially previewed the all-new Haval H9 for the local market. Shown in the metal at the 2025 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS), the three-row boxy (and stylish) SUV has set its sights against the likes of the Toyota Fortuner, Mitsubishi Montero Sport, Ford Everest, Nissan Terra, and perhaps even the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado.

At the time of its preview, GWM has only confirmed it will get a 2.4L turbo-diesel engine under the hood along with a BorgWarner 4WD system. It also gets plenty of niceties such as full leather upholstery, a touchscreen infotainment system, and many more in-car features.

Fast forward to June 2025, and the Land Transportation Office (LTO) has approved the Haval H9 for the local market. This comes after the agency released new homologation documents for the yet-to-be-launched 4x4 SUV.

Based on the memorandum circular the LTO has, the PH-spec Haval H9 will come with a 2370cc diesel engine, confirming the SUV's 2.4L turbo-diesel heart. In addition, the vehicle's full name is Haval H9 AWD 9AT, which also confirms its 9-speed automatic transmission and drivetrain system.

Size-wise, the Haval H9 will measure 4950mm long, 1976mm wide, and 1930mm tall. It also has a generous 2850mm wheelbase and a ground clearance of 224mm. Last but not least, it will have 19-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 265/55 series tires.

With the 2025 GWM Cannon pickup already on sale in the country, perhaps it might not be long before the H9 makes its official debut. The only question now is, how much will GWM price the Haval H9?