This week, a drive in the Chinese built Haval Jolion, a small front wheel drive SUV – three models, the entry Jolion Premium, the mid-spec Lux and the top line Ultra, prices running from 27,490 to $32,990 drive-away.

From GWM or Great Wall Motors the Haval Jolion replaced the far from impressive H2 model last year, a much-improved effort, a rather modern design with a bold grille and frontal treatment in a body that’s more medium than small, all models powered by a 1.5-litre turbo four-cylinder linked to a seven-speed dual clutch automatic.

I drove the Jolion Ultra, which as the name implies has all the fruit – try LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, 18-inch alloy wheels, a head-up display and wireless phone charging. This on top of a leather steering wheel, dual-zone climate control air, power driver’s seat, a multi-media touch screen, heated front seats, a camera-based driver fatigue system, paddle gear shifters, a reversing camera and a host of active safety elements like lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control.

The specification level impressive to say the least. Value for money is the story here but finesse isn’t – some aspects of the Haval Jolion’s performance are average at best, and I explain in more detail in my next segment but if your limited by budget then it’s a great buy.

I’m David Berthon.

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