It was only just a few months ago when GWM launched the Haval H9 turbo-diesel SUV. Not only does the Haval H9 undercut the midsize stalwarts of the frame-based SUV segment, but it also benefits from an AWD system and has three rows of seats. The best part is its starting price of less than PHP 2 million, which has surely attracted plenty of customers, despite the recent price hike of diesel.

Over in the People's Republic, GWM has subtly updated the Haval H9 with some key changes both inside and out.

Beginning with the exterior, the 2026 Haval H9 still looks relatively the same. However, customers who prefer their SUV with less chrome can get it with a new styling package. Instead of shiny chrome, the 2026 Haval H9 is available with a blacked-out design package, which covers the grille, bumpers, side mirror caps, and roof rails. The result is a more aggressive-looking Haval H9 without the shiny bits.

The rest of the vehicle remains the same, which means the Haval H9 keeps its 800mm of water wading capability and approach angle of 32 degrees. It also retains the 224mm of ground clearance, which is more than enough to go over rough terrain.

Inside, the 2026 Haval H9 gets a new interior finish called “Lava Red”, which blankets the cabin in a daring shade of red. It also comes with additional features like ambient lighting, an electric swing-out tailgate, and driving assistance functions like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, automatic parking assist, and more.

Perhaps the most important upgrade is the new 15.6-inch 4K touchscreen infotainment display that runs on the latest Coffee OS 3. It supports intelligent multi-zone voice interaction, wireless smartphone integration, and AI-based assist functions via the onboard Coffee GPT.

As before, the Haval H9 is powered by a 2.4L turbo-diesel engine, which puts out 186 PS and 480 Nm of torque. Is then mated to a 9-speed automatic gearbox and a full-time 4WD system. It also has various drive modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, Snow, Mud, Sand, and 4L.

In the PRC, the Haval H9 is also available with a 2.0L turbocharged gasoline engine that puts out 224 PS and 385 Nm of torque. Instead of a 9-speed automatic, the gasoline-powered version is connected to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Should GWM Philippines bring the Haval H9 with a black styling package? Let us know what you think in the comments section.