GWM Haval H6 vs Kia Sportage
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The GWM Haval H6 starts from $35,990 before on-road costs, while the Kia Sportage opens at $38,490. That makes the GWM Haval H6 the more affordable entry point by $2,500.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $39,589 and $42,339 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the GWM Haval H6 and Kia Sportage hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 90% for the GWM Haval H6 and 87% for the Kia Sportage.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The GWM Haval H6 packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 3 in the Kia Sportage.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the GWM Haval H6 and 6 in the Kia Sportage.
Feature Showdown
The GWM Haval H6 features a 14.6-inch touchscreen, while the Kia Sportage gets a 12.3-inch display and 4-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The GWM Haval H6 stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, panoramic roof and power tailgate that you will not find on the Kia Sportage. The Kia Sportage counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The GWM Haval H6 uses a Petrol producing 170kW and 380Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.5 seconds.
The Kia Sportage responds with a Petrol making 115kW and 192Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8.5 seconds.
The GWM Haval H6 has the clear power advantage at 170kW vs 115kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The GWM Haval H6 measures 4,703mm long on a 2,738mm wheelbase, 18mm longer than the Kia Sportage at 4,685mm (2,755mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Kia Sportage generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 471L in the GWM Haval H6 and 543L in the Kia Sportage, giving the Kia Sportage a 72L advantage.
For towing, the GWM Haval H6 leads with a 2,000kg braked capacity vs 1,650kg. That 350kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.4m to 12.0m
Based on 12.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,682/year for the GWM Haval H6 and $1,767/year for the Kia Sportage. That is a $85 annual difference in favour of the GWM Haval H6.
Estimated annual total: $1,682 (GWM Haval H6) vs $1,767 (Kia Sportage). The GWM Haval H6 saves you roughly $85 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 7 years / 999,999km (GWM Haval H6) vs 7 years / 999,999km (Kia Sportage). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the GWM Haval H6 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, want lower running costs, need stronger towing, or prefer GWM's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Kia Sportage if: You need more boot space, or prefer Kia's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The GWM Haval H6 takes 4 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The GWM Haval H6 will save you roughly $85 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Kia Sportage has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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