GWM Haval H7 vs Lexus LBX
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 H7 starts from $46,990 before on-road costs, while the Lexus LBX opens at $47,550. That makes the GWM Haval H7 the more affordable entry point by $560.
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 $51,689 and $52,305 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Lexus LBX by roughly $1,855 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the GWM Haval H7 and Lexus LBX hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 90% for the GWM Haval H7 and 82% for the Lexus LBX.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The GWM Haval H7 packs more ADAS features with 7 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 5 in the Lexus LBX.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. The GWM Haval H7 adds a 360-degree camera that the Lexus LBX misses.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The GWM Haval H7 stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, head-up display, wireless charging, panoramic roof, heated front seats and power tailgate that you will not find on the Lexus LBX. The Lexus LBX counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The GWM Haval H7 lines up producing 179kW and 530Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.9 seconds.
The Lexus LBX lines up making 100kW and 185Nm, paired to a cvt driving the front wheels.
The GWM Haval H7 has the clear power advantage at 179kW vs 100kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
Boot space is 520L in the GWM Haval H7 and 332L in the Lexus LBX, giving the GWM Haval H7 a 188L advantage.
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,682/year for the GWM Haval H7 and $1,311/year for the Lexus LBX. That is a $371 annual difference in favour of the Lexus LBX.
Estimated annual total: $1,682 (GWM Haval H7) vs $1,311 (Lexus LBX). The Lexus LBX saves you roughly $371 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 7 years (GWM Haval H7) vs 5 years (Lexus LBX). The GWM Haval H7 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the GWM Haval H7 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, need more boot space, value a longer warranty, or prefer GWM's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Lexus LBX if: You want lower running costs, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The GWM Haval H7 takes 4 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Lexus LBX will save you roughly $371 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the GWM Haval H7 has a clear edge. The GWM Haval H7 adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. 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 (18 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 · 18 April 2026
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