Haval H9 vs Toyota Fortuner | Class Apart Comparison

Haval H9 vs Toyota Fortuner comparisons are heating up now that the Haval H9 has finally arrived in the UAE. This time, it’s not a Japanese, American, or German  SUV entering the scene but a pure Chinese contender. Haval, a daughter brand of GWM, has built a reputation for producing solid flagship-killer vehicles, you might even call it the OnePlus of the car industry. With the H9 joining one of the region’s most competitive SUV segments, the question naturally arises: how does it stack up against the tried-and-trusted Toyota Fortuner?

Previously, GWM introduced the Tank 500, which proved to be a powerful flagship killer aimed at the LC300 and the Lexus LX 570. Riding on that momentum, GWM has now introduced the new Haval H9, positioning it directly against one of the UAE’s most popular mid-size SUVs: the Toyota Fortuner. And with both models starting around 127,000 AED, this comparison becomes even more interesting; one offers Japanese reliability, while the other promises premium features at a disruptive price.

So, in a head-to-head matchup, which SUV actually comes out on top? And which one delivers better value for buyers in the UAE?

Let’s break it down and see who takes the lead.

Haval H9 | Entry-Level Dutch Killer

Haval H9 seems to be inspired too much by the Defender at first sight. Especially if you look at its headlights, it seems like designers were watching the Defender’s headlights when designing their own H9’s front.

The SUV features two high-resolution screens, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 10-speaker stereo system. The interior is spacious, with comfortable front seats and a second row that comfortably accommodates three adults. The third row is suitable for children or smaller adults and can be folded flat to expand cargo space. When we first looked at the interior, it seemed like it was inspired by the brand new Toyota Prado, the AC grills, and the steering, specifically. But it works great, and the built quality is good, so we have no issues.

In terms of dimensions, the H9 measures 4859mm in length, 1934mm in width, and 1853mm in height, making it the largest Haval model. Its ground clearance of 224mm and all-wheel-drive system enables it to handle off-road conditions, though it’s not as rugged as the Tank 500.

Overall, like any other Chinese brand, Haval has also tried to include many jaw-dropping tech features in this car, which costs only 127k AED. If you’re really looking for a solid VFM deal, H9 is definitely a good option!

Toyota Fortuner | All Work No Fuss

The 2024 Toyota Fortuner is a seven-seat SUV based on the HiLux platform. Despite its strong build and Toyota’s trusted name, it hasn’t been as popular in UAE, mostly used for commercial purposes in construction sites and desert safaris.

The base model, the EXR, costs 127,000 AED, which is the invoice price. Inside, it feels more like a car than an SUV, more like an 11th-generation Corolla. There’s a built-in touchscreen and a center area that mixes designs from the HiLux and Prado. The cabin uses better materials, like stitched dashboard soft-touch parts and regions, adding a touch of premium, but it’s not luxury by any means. However, the infotainment system needs to be updated, offering only wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and is quicker than those in newer competitors.

The seats are comfortable. The second row has decent legroom but less head and foot space compared to other SUVs. The third row is more suitable for kids, and when folded to the sides, it reduces cargo space and rear visibility. Toyota doesn’t provide exact boot sizes, but estimates suggest about 200 liters with all seats up, expanding to 1080 liters when the second and third rows are down.

This 127k AED version of the Fortuner has a 2.7-liter turbo-diesel engine that produces 164 HP of power and 245 Nm of torque. It’s matched with a six-speed automatic gearbox and a four-wheel-drive system, delivering solid performance. However, it still feels like a truck, especially when driving in a city, with heavy steering and noticeable diesel noise affecting the overall experience.

In conclusion, the 2024 Toyota Fortuner Crusade offers durability and practicality, appealing to families needing an SUV with real off-road abilities. Yet, its outdated technology, less plushy interior layout, and truck-like driving feel might lead buyers to look at more modern options in the large SUV market.

1-1 Comparison: Haval H9 vs Toyota Fortuner

Here’s the 1-1 comparison of both cars:

Performance and Engine

Here’s the performance and engine specs of both cars:

Specs	Toyota Fortuner	Haval H6
Engine	4.0L V6 (235 HP, 38.3 kg-m torque) 2.7L I4 (164 HP, 25.0 kg-m torque)​	2.0L Turbocharged I4, 180 kW (241 HP), 350 Nm torque​
Transmission	6-speed Super ECT Automatic​	ZF 8-speed Automatic Transmission with paddle shifters​
Drive	Part-time 4WD with selectable dial​	Full-time 4WD with selectable terrain modes (Auto, Sand, Snow, Mud, 4L)​
Fuel Economy	Not specified​	Combined: 10.9L/100 km​
Acceleration (0-100 km/h)	Not provided	Not provided
Ground Clearance	Not specified	206 mm​
Fuel Tank Capacity	Not specified	80L​

Interior Features

Here are the interior features of both cars:

Infotainment System	4.2-inch TFT multi-information display​	8-inch touchscreen: climate control, reverse camera, audio​
Climate Control	Auto air-conditioning Rear vents with ceiling-mounted control​	Tri-zone climate control (driver, passenger, rear)​
Seating	– 7 seats (manual tumble for 2nd row, foldable 3rd row) – Fabric/leather options​	– 7 seats (electrically foldable 3rd row, 6:4 split 2nd row) – Front massage seats​
Comfort Features	Rear auto AC vents, power back door, overhead console storage​	Ventilated front seats, manual lumbar support, panoramic sunroof​
Steering Wheel	Standard multifunction steering wheel​	Leather-wrapped, multifunction with paddle shifters​
Other Features	– Power back door – Rear cabin storage​	Off-road monitor: altitude, barometer, compass​

Exterior Features

Here are the exterior features of both cars:

Lighting	LED headlights with high/low beams​	LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), Adaptive Frontlighting System (AFS)​
Wheels & Tires	Alloy wheels (size not specified)	18-inch alloy wheels​
Sunroof	Not available	Panoramic sunroof​
Exterior Styling	Robust, bold design with chrome accents​	Bold, aerodynamic design with sporty lines and roof rails​

Safety Features

Here are the safety features of both cars:

Airbags	3 airbags: Driver, Passenger, Driver’s knee​	6 airbags: Front, Side, and Curtain​
Braking System	ABS with EBD​	ABS, EBD, BA (Brake Assist)​
Stability Control	Not mentioned	ESP (Electronic Stability Program), Hill Descent Control (HDC)​
Driver Assistance	Rear-view camera​	Reverse camera, Lane Change Assist (LCA), Cross Traffic Alert (CTA)​
Other Safety Features	Crash safety body with crumple zones​	Rollover Mitigation (RMI), TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)​

Conclusion

When it comes to price, both SUVs compete directly, yet they belong to completely different classes. The Toyota Fortuner remains a dependable JDM option built to get the job done, rugged, straightforward, and purpose-driven. The Haval H9, on the other hand, is the choice for anyone seeking a far more luxurious and refined driving experience, almost on par with European-style comfort. If your budget doesn’t stretch far enough to reach those high-end luxury brands, the H9 offers an impressive entry point.

To be honest, the Fortuner is now showing its age. It feels more like a work truck than a personal family SUV, and “premium” or “luxury” aren’t words many would associate with it. The Haval H9 isn’t the peak of luxury either, but it comes surprisingly close to entry-level premium standards. From its seats and leather quality to its interior styling, exterior design, infotainment experience, and modern features, the H9 delivers a noticeably elevated feel.

So in the broader Haval H9 vs Toyota Fortuner conversation, it ultimately comes down to what you value more: proven reliability or modern comfort. Both SUVs have their loyal audiences, but your choice will depend on whether you prefer durability or a more premium everyday driving experience.

Let us know what you think about both vehicles, and make sure to join the discussion on the ArabWheels Blog for more expert insights, comparisons, and real-world opinions.