Renault Symbioz vs GWM Haval H7
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 Renault Symbioz starts from $44,990 before on-road costs, while the GWM Haval H7 opens at $46,990. That makes the Renault Symbioz 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 $49,489 and $51,689 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Renault Symbioz by roughly $1,855 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Renault Symbioz and GWM Haval H7 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
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 3 in the Renault Symbioz.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control. The GWM Haval H7 adds a 360-degree camera that the Renault Symbioz misses.
Feature Showdown
The Renault Symbioz features a 10.4-inch touchscreen paired with a 10.3-inch digital dash, while the GWM Haval H7 gets a 14.6-inch display.
The GWM Haval H7 counters with head-up display, wireless charging, panoramic roof, heated front seats and power tailgate that the Renault Symbioz does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Renault Symbioz uses a Inline 4 producing 70kW and 149Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.6 seconds.
The GWM Haval H7 responds with a Petrol making 179kW and 530Nm, paired to a auto driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.9 seconds.
The GWM Haval H7 has the clear power advantage at 179kW vs 70kW. In the real-world sprint, the GWM Haval H7 is 2.7s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Renault Symbioz measures 4,413mm long on a 2,638mm wheelbase, 347mm shorter than the GWM Haval H7 at 4,760mm (2,800mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the GWM Haval H7 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 434L in the Renault Symbioz and 520L in the GWM Haval H7, giving the GWM Haval H7 a 86L advantage.
For towing, the GWM Haval H7 leads with a 2,500kg braked capacity vs 750kg. That 1,750kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
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
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,311/year for the Renault Symbioz and $1,682/year for the GWM Haval H7. That is a $371 annual difference in favour of the Renault Symbioz.
Estimated annual total: $1,311 (Renault Symbioz) vs $1,682 (GWM Haval H7). The Renault Symbioz saves you roughly $371 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Renault Symbioz) vs 7 years / 999,999km (GWM Haval H7). The GWM Haval H7 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Renault Symbioz if: You want the lower entry price, want lower running costs, or prefer Renault's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the GWM Haval H7 if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer GWM's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The GWM Haval H7 takes 5 of 7 key spec categories. The Renault Symbioz 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 (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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