GWM Haval H7 vs MG MGS5
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 MG MGS5 opens at $44,990. That makes the MG MGS5 the more affordable entry point by $2,000.
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 $49,489 respectively.
The MG MGS5 qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The GWM Haval H7, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
Both the GWM Haval H7 and MG MGS5 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 90% for the GWM Haval H7 and 90% for the MG MGS5.
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 4 in the MG MGS5.
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 MG MGS5 misses.
Feature Showdown
The GWM Haval H7 features a 14.6-inch touchscreen paired with a 10.3-inch digital dash, while the MG MGS5 gets a 12.8-inch display and 10.3-inch instruments. 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 MG MGS5. The MG MGS5 counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The GWM Haval H7 uses a Petrol 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 MG MGS5 responds with a Electric Motor making 125kW and 250Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8.2 seconds.
The GWM Haval H7 has the clear power advantage at 179kW vs 125kW. In the real-world sprint, the GWM Haval H7 is 0.3s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The GWM Haval H7 measures 4,760mm long on a 2,800mm wheelbase, 284mm longer than the MG MGS5 at 4,476mm (2,730mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the GWM Haval H7 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 520L in the GWM Haval H7 and 453L in the MG MGS5, giving the GWM Haval H7 a 67L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
12.0m diameter
Average
Based on 12.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 7 years / 999,999km (GWM Haval H7) vs 10 years / 250,000km (MG MGS5). The MG MGS5 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the GWM Haval H7 if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, or prefer GWM's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the MG MGS5 if: You want the lower entry price, value a longer warranty, or prefer MG's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The GWM Haval H7 takes 3 of 5 key spec categories. If boot space matters, the GWM Haval H7 has a clear edge. The MG MGS5 adds peace of mind with a longer 10-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, GWM Haval H7 and MG MGS5?
The MG MGS5 is the cheapest at $44,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the GWM Haval H7 by $2,000.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The GWM Haval H7 uses the least fuel at 5.9L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — GWM Haval H7 and MG MGS5 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The GWM Haval H7 has the largest boot at 520L.
Which can tow the most?
The GWM Haval H7 has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,500kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The MG MGS5 has the longest warranty at 10 years / 250k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The GWM Haval H7 makes the most power at 179kW. The GWM Haval H7 is quickest to 100km/h in 7.9s.
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.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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