It’s been a rather slow start to 2026 for the automotive industry—at least compared to the previous years. We have yet to witness any big launches this month, and while the motoring beat has still been busy, we’ve all been less frantic and fatigued so far.
The next few months, however, are shaping up to be quite packed. It looks like February will be off to a strong start, as GWM Philippines has just confirmed with us that its full-size SUV, the Haval H9, will be officially launched on February 4, 2026.
This was confirmed by GWM Philippines executives themselves during a trip to the brand’s facilities in China this week. Our very own Aaron Pagador represented Top Gear Philippines there, where they were able to test out the H9 before the launch. The photos you see here, however, are Chinese-spec models, so they’re not the same as what we’ll be getting here.
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Speaking of specs, we already know what Philippine units will be like, as GWM has already shared them online. Locally, the H9 will come packing a 2.4-liter four-cylinder turbopetrol pushing out 183hp and 480Nm of torque. This powertrain will be mated to a nine-speed automatic. Four-wheel drive is standard, and so are the paddle shifters.
The Haval H9 will also get amenities like a 14.6-inch infotainment system with a 10.25-inch instrument cluster. Wireless connectivity via both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will also be available, as well as advanced driver-assist systems.
The Haval H9 is classified as a full-size SUV, measuring 4,950mm long and 1,976mm wide with a 2,850mm wheelbase. For comparison, the Toyota Land Cruiser is only 180mm longer and 4mm wider with the exact same wheelbase. So yes, the H9 is a big boy.
This announcement doesn’t come as a complete surprise, though. The automaker has been putting out teasers and content on the H9 across social media as of late. We were expecting to see it at the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) in April, though, and not this early. But we’re not complaining. In any case, if you’re interested in this upcoming SUV, stay tuned for more in a few weeks’ time.
