The Chinese auto industry has made a colossal leap over the past two decades, and one of the flagships of this movement has become the company Great Wall Motor. If earlier the brand was associated exclusively with utilitarian SUVs and simple trucks, today Great Wall car line is a complex technological complex that includes frame monsters, city crossovers and even electric cars. Understanding the structure of the model range is necessary for everyone who is considering buying a “Chinese”, since completely different operating philosophies are hidden under one nameplate.
The modern approach of the manufacturer is to clearly separate brands within the holding. This is no longer just “Great Wall”, but rather a conglomerate, where each sub-brand is responsible for its own niche. The key point for the Russian buyer is that official deliveries are often under the Haval, Tank and Wey brands, although technically these are all GWM products. Understanding this maze of abbreviations and indices is the primary task before visiting a car dealership.
In this material, we will analyze in detail what the manufacturer’s current range consists of, which engines are considered the most durable, and what you should pay attention to when choosing a used one. You will learn the difference between frame Haval H9 from the carrier Haval F7, and why pickup trucks series Poer are becoming more popular than many passenger cars.
Holding structure and main brands
The first thing a potential buyer should understand is: Great Wall Motor is the parent corporation. On the Russian market, cars are most often found under the brand Haval, which specializes in crossovers and SUVs with increased comfort. However, the range also includes other directions, such as Tank for hardcore offroad and ORA for urban electrification. Understanding this hierarchy helps you quickly find the equipment you need.
The division occurs not only by marketing names, but also by platform solutions. For example, platform Lemon used for most modern crossovers, providing them with a low center of gravity and good handling on asphalt. At the same time, frame models are based on more archaic, but time-tested solutions that allow them to withstand serious loads on the body.
- 🚙 Haval - the main brand of crossovers (F7, Jolion, Dargo).
- 🚜 Tank — premium frame SUVs (Tank 300, Tank 500).
- ⚡ ORA — a line of compact electric vehicles (ORA 03, Funky Cat).
- 🚛 GWM Poer - commercial and personal pickups.
It is important to note that maintenance of different lines may vary significantly. If for models on platform Lemon The quality of fuel and oil change intervals in a variator or robot are critical, then frame mechanics require attention to transfer cases and the condition of the frame. Diagnostics electronic systems also vary depending on the year of manufacture and the specific sub-brand.
Popular Haval crossovers: F7, Jolion and Dargo
The most massive group of cars coming out of the Great Wall factories are crossovers under the brand Haval. The model remains the sales leader for many years Haval F7, which is positioned as a coupe-crossover with an aggressive design. This car offers a wealth of equipment even in basic versions, including adaptive cruise control and a surround view system, which is excellent for its class. premium offer.
A more modern representative of the family is Haval Jolion. This is a compact urban crossover designed to compete with European and Korean counterparts in the C-SUV segment. It is built on a new architecture, which has improved sound insulation and interior ergonomics. The engines here are often paired with a robotic gearbox with two clutches, which provides good dynamics, but requires careful operation in traffic jams.
⚠️ Attention: When purchasing a Haval Jolion from early years of production, be sure to check the operation of the clutch actuator. In some cases, when standing in traffic jams for a long time, the unit may overheat, which leads to errors in the operation of the transmission.
The model stands apart Haval Dargo (also known as Big Dog). This is an all-terrain vehicle that imitates the style of classic SUVs, but is built on a monocoque body. A unique feature of this model is the presence of a lockable cross-axle differential at the rear, which is rare for single-wheel drive or conventionally all-wheel drive crossovers. Geometric cross-country ability Dargo is also higher than its classmates.
When choosing between F7 and Jolion, pay attention to the ground clearance: for F7 it is 190 mm, and for Jolion it is 180 mm. For bad roads this is a significant difference.
Frame SUVs: Haval H9 and Tank
For those who want true all-terrain capability, Great Wall offers frame-on-frame models. The flagship of this direction for a long time was Haval H9. This is a large seven-seater SUV that is often compared to the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. It is equipped with full-time all-wheel drive with reduction gearing and differential locks. The engines here are powerful, most often 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline, paired with a classic 8-speed automatic ZF.
The evolution of the idea of a frame SUV has become a separate brand Tank. Model Tank 300 made a splash in the market with its retro design and excellent off-road capabilities. Unlike the H9, which is focused on comfortable movement on the highway and light off-road, the Tank 300 is designed for more severe conditions. A stiffer suspension and reinforced transmission elements are used here.
Comparative table of characteristics of popular SUVs:
| Model | Body type | Engine | Drive | checkpoint |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Haval H9 | Frame SUV | 2.0 Turbo (224 hp) | Full (4WD) | Automatic transmission 8 speed |
| Tank 300 | Frame SUV | 2.0 Turbo (227 hp) | Full (4WD) | Automatic transmission 8 speed |
| Haval Dargo | Crossover (Carrying) | 2.0 Turbo (192 hp) | Full (4WD) | Robot 7DCT |
| Tank 500 | Frame SUV | 3.0 V6 Turbo | Full (4WD) | Automatic transmission 9 speed |
Owners of frame models should remember the need to regularly lubricate the driveshafts and check the condition of the transfer case seals. Resource of such cars directly depends on the timeliness of these procedures, especially if the car is operated in conditions of dust and dirt.
Secrets of off-road electronics
Great Wall all-wheel drive systems often use a BorgWarner multi-plate clutch. It effectively distributes torque, but is afraid of prolonged slipping in a hot state. If you get stuck, do not try to “rock” the car for a long time; it is better to use a winch or the help of another car.
Great Wall Poer and King Kong pickups
The line of pickup trucks, which has been experiencing a renaissance in recent years, deserves special attention. Model GWM Poer (or King Kong in some versions) is a modern tool for work and play. Unlike older Wingle models, Poer received a modern design, high-quality interior and powerful diesel engines. This makes it a competitor not only to other “Chinese” cars, but also to such giants as the Toyota Hilux.
The engine range of pickup trucks is usually represented by a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine. This motor has high torque at low revs, ideal for towing trailers or hauling cargo. Traction characteristics allow you to carry up to 3 tons, which makes the car popular among small businesses and farmers.
- 🛠 Load capacity: up to 1000 kg depending on modification.
- 🏗 Tow hitch: ability to tow up to 3000 kg.
- 🚜 Four-wheel drive: Plug-in with step-down series.
- 📱 Multimedia: Supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
When choosing a pickup truck, it is important to decide on the body type. There are double cab versions for families and short versions for maximum cargo bed length. It is also worth paying attention to the presence of a factory gas system or the possibility of installing it, since diesel versions are more economical, but gasoline versions are quieter and easier to maintain in winter.
Technical features and reliability of units
Speaking about the reliability of Great Wall equipment, one cannot fail to mention the engines of the series GW4B15 and GW4C20. These are modern turbo engines that have proven themselves quite well, but have their own requirements. The quality of the engine oil and timely replacement of the timing belt are critically important for them. It is better to reduce service intervals to 7-8 thousand kilometers, especially if the car is operated in urban conditions.
Transmissions also require a competent approach. Robotic boxes 7DCT (wet type) work quickly and accurately, but are sensitive to overheating in start-stop mode. Automatic boxes ZF 8HP, installed on frames, are considered very reliable, but require oil changes every 60 thousand kilometers, despite the manufacturer’s statements about “maintenance-free”.
⚠️ Attention: Never ignore the appearance of errors in the all-wheel drive system. On modern Great Wall models, electronics can force the car into two-wheel mode at the slightest suspicion of overheating of the clutch, which can be a surprise on a slippery road.
The electrical equipment of Great Wall cars has become much better in recent generations. However, owners should be careful when installing non-standard equipment. Standard multimedia and driver assistance systems are connected to a single network, and unqualified intervention can lead to malfunctions of airbags or cruise control.
☑️ Checklist before buying a used Great Wall
Tips for operation and maintenance
Owning a Chinese-made car has its own specifics. Spare parts for popular models like the Haval F7 or Jolion are no longer difficult to find; they are available at many dealers and in specialized stores. However, for rare models or new modifications logistics may take time. Therefore, before purchasing an exclusive version, you should inquire about the availability of body parts.
The paint coating of modern Great Walls has become thicker and better quality, but is still inferior to its European counterparts in terms of resistance to chipping. It is recommended that immediately after purchase, install protection for the arches and hood, as well as apply a ceramic coating. This will preserve the presentation of the car and simplify its care in winter, when roads are treated with reagents.
As for winter operation, Great Wall engines are not equipped with preheaters in all trim levels. In the northern regions, installing an autonomous heater or electric heating is an almost mandatory procedure. This will preserve the life of the engine and ensure comfort in the cabin.
⚠️ Attention: When using charging adapters (for ORA electric cars) or non-original filters, errors may occur in the engine management system. Great Wall electronics are very sensitive to the quality of components.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How realistic is it to find spare parts for Great Wall in the region?
For popular models (Haval F7, Jolion, H9) there are practically no problems with consumables and body parts, since official import has been established. For rare models or Poer pickups, parts may take 2 to 4 weeks to order.
Which Great Wall engine is considered the most reliable?
The most proven is the naturally aspirated 2.4 liter (older models) and the modern 2.0 turbo petrol paired with a ZF automatic. Robotic boxes require more careful handling.
Is it worth taking Great Wall for the city?
Of course, models like Jolion or F7 are ideal for the city: they are compact, economical and have a good range of options for comfort. Frame models may be too big for heavy traffic.
How does Great Wall cope with the Russian winter?
Cars are adapted for the Russian market: pre-heaters are installed, frost-resistant rubber and plastic elements are used. Starting problems usually do not occur with a working battery.
Great Wall today is not just “Chinese consumer goods”, but technologically advanced cars that compete with global brands in terms of equipment, but require high-quality service and the right approach to operation.