GWM is set to restructure its family SUV range in Australia over the next 12 to 18 months, with the current H6 and H7 expected to be replaced by new-generation models. The company will also introduce the Jolion Max.

The fourth-generation 2027 H6 has been confirmed as the global-market version of the GWM Xiaolong Max, which was introduced in China in 2023 and updated last year.

According to GWM Australia, the new H6 is scheduled to arrive in Australian showrooms in early 2027. The current H7 hybrid, which was introduced in Australia less than a year ago, is also expected to be replaced. A new-generation model featuring seven seats and plug-in hybrid technology is under consideration for the local market.

Tim Leong, Product Planning Manager at GWM Australia, stated that the H6 GT is treated as a separate model and will continue alongside the next-generation H6. The petrol-only version of the H6 GT is currently in its run-out phase, while the plug-in hybrid variant is expected to remain.

Compared with the existing H6, the new model is longer and wider, with an extended wheelbase intended to increase interior space. The vehicle measures 4,780 mm in length, 1,895 mm in width, and 1,730 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,800 mm. This represents an increase of 77 mm in length and 9 mm in width compared with the current model, while the height remains unchanged and the wheelbase is extended by 62 mm.

The upcoming H7, positioned as a competitor to the Mitsubishi Outlander, Nissan X-Trail, and Mahindra XUV700, is 20 mm longer, 55 mm wider, and 113 mm taller than the new H6. It is also 95 mm longer than the current H7, although its wheelbase is 62 mm shorter.

Overseas specifications indicate a luggage capacity of 436 litres for the new H6 and 586 litres for the new seven-seat H7, compared with 560 litres for the current H6 and 483 litres for the current H7.

Petrol, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains are expected to remain available for the H6 in Australia. However, the company is reviewing the continuation of non-hybrid variants in light of the country's New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), which will become more stringent from January 1st, 2027.

The 2027 H6 plug-in hybrid will feature 23.7 kWh or 33.8 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery options, compared with 19.09 kWh in the current H6 PHEV.

New features include front seats with massage functionality, a larger digital instrument cluster, a 10-speaker surround sound system, and an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, replacing the previous six-way adjustment.

Further details regarding the Australian specifications of the 2027 H6 are expected closer to its launch in early 2027.