What's the difference?
GWM’s Haval H6 has been a solid budget-oriented mid-size family SUV for years now, but now it might be a better package than ever.
This current model has just received a mid-life update that brings new looks inside and out, new powertrain options, as well as a revised trim level structure.
Competition in the mid-size SUV segment is hotter than ever with fierce rivals like the Toyota RAV4, Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson.
Is the updated GWM Haval H6 worth considering? Read on to find out.
We’re entering the second half of 2026 and the rollout of new Chinese brands in Australia shows no sign of slowing.
The latest is Forthing, a brand from China’s massive Dongfeng Motor Group which has joint ventures with Nissan, Honda and Stellantis.
Forthing's first model in Australia is called the Taikon 5, a mid-size SUV offered in both electric (EV) and range-extender hybrid (REEV) guises.
Although customer deliveries have just begun, the rollout has been bumpy. Forthing is currently in the middle of a trademark dispute with Porsche over the Taikon name.
Porsche alleges Taikon is too similar to Taycan.
While this dispute is ongoing, Forthing is publicly referring to the car as the Electric and Range Extender Hybrid.
Forthing is hoping to have a resolution by the end of 2026, but if Porsche is successful in its opposition, the company may need to rename the car.
The GWM Haval H6 has always been a value buy as a mid-size family SUV and although it previously wouldn’t have been at the top of my shopping list, this mid-life update has changed my mind.
It’s now more stylish inside and out, has more ergonomic storage and most importantly remains a cut-price offering.
Things aren’t perfect, as you still need to rely on the touchscreen for many key features and the suspension tune isn’t quite right.
Forthing remains something of an unknown quantity in Australia, but this first look at the Taikon 5 on local roads is promising.
It’s a modest mid-size SUV that’s priced accordingly and if you’re not a car person this will likely be enough to get people into a showroom.
Compared to most of its rivals it’s surprisingly pleasant and nice to drive, which is not something you can say about many first attempts.
Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer with travel and meals provided.