WITH the launching of Haima’s V70 1.5T Deluxe, the Chinese car manufacturer through its official distributor in the Philippines, the LausAutoGroup, found more ways to satisfy the needs of today’s market—enabling owners to get more out of life.
Haima’s first in-house developed multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), the V70 segment, is a breakthrough vehicle that does not only combines luxury and advanced technology but also the highest levels of quality and safety.
Its top-notch features and well-reputed performance standards that form the underpinnings of a competitive vehicle, best out competitors from Korea and Japan, and eventually led it to winning the MPV category award at the Car of the Year Philippines in 2016.
Why does Haima V70 stand out and how does it challenge conventions in performance and design? Read below:
Styling
As an innovative brand that raises the bar in design, Haima is establishing an identity that is uniquely Chinese. This means flowing, Buick-like body lines and an expressive waterfall grille that is a big upgrade from its previous Opel-ish vibe styling. With regards to size, it’s quite longer than its competitors from the same segment. It is also notable that it is big enough to make the standard 16-inch alloy wheels look a bit underwhelming, but not so big as to make parking a chore.
Interior
Haima V70’s large exterior opens up to reveal a large interior draped in sophisticated brown faux leather and plastics rendered in a palette of black, matte silver, and reddish brown bathed in muted sunlight streaming through the large sunroof. Panel fit and gaps are laser tight.
In his recent review, TopGear Philipines’ Niky Tamayo noted that while plastics are still hard in certain areas, cover up the logo and you’d be hard pressed to tell that this isn’t a mainstream Japanese or Korean car.
He said that “unlike the Haima S5 we tested last year, the dashboard and console design are now fully mainstream, with all controls and display panels where you’d naturally expect them. The seats are deep and soft, and while the faux leather isn’t quite as tight-fitting as in mainstream cars, it feels good against your skin.”
“A split second row limits seating to six. Both buckets sport Isofix and top tethers, but the fixed center console box means you have to fold down a seat to access the rear. Third row legroom is tight, but acceptable for medium-sized children, with generous headroom. The cargo bay is slightly narrower and somewhat lower than in the Innova, but the fold-flat third row actually gives it more usable space,” he added in his article.
Engine performance
Under the hood and behind the grille, the Haima V70 pumps power from the Euro V compliant 1-in-line, 16V DOHC multi-point injection engine with 156/5500 Hp/rm and 220/1800-4000 maximum torque.
Tamayo noted that “while the 1.5-liter turbocharged direct-injection gasoline engine under the V70’s hood produces less power than in the S5, at just 156hp, but drive them back to back and you’d swear the V70 had more. Credit goes to the smooth shifting six-speed automatic transmission, which is more responsive than the S5’s CVT. Fuel economy is still similar, however, at a middling 10-11.5km/L in mixed driving, but given the power on tap and the size of the V70, it seems mean to complain.”
Ride and handling
With its efficient engine and McPherson Suspension, the Haima V70 delivers stabilized driving and flexible driving experience. It also takes pride of its safety features with its high rigid body and C-NCAP five-star safety design. In addition, it also has the Electronic Parking Brake for easy use when engaging the park brake.
Extra features
The Haima V70 comes bundled with everything you expect of a top tier unit. It is equipped with Electronic Stability Program, Traction Control System, Hill Start Assist, High Descent Control, exclusive patented Technology-Child Safety Alarm System, and two airbags for utmost protection.
Moreover, it also features high-tech keyless entry and push button start, and an 8-inch LCD monitor with touch screen interface for that cool, and user-friendly experience.
Value for money
The V70 model comes in at just P1.15 million which Tamayo noted is“an amazing price given the size and equipment spec of the V70. Granted, you can get an Innova or Xpander for that price, but the Xpander is smaller and the Innova won’t have this level of kit or performance.”
For more information, visit Haima’s dealerships located in Pampanga, Bataan, Baliwag, Marilao, Calasiao, Urdaneta, and Baguio. You may alsocheck out www.haima.com.ph or call Haima Cars Pampanga at (045) 961 4553 or 0918 854 2215.---(Erika Mariel Gines)