Haval, Ironman 4×4 working on Australian tuning program – UPDATE
Update - The original version of this article stated the updated 2018 Haval H9 was the base car for the company's local tuning prototype. This is not the case, as it is the pre-update model
Chinese SUV specialist Haval has revealed it is in the first stages of implementing an Australian tuning program for its local line-up, starting with its largest model, the H9.
At a presentation in Darwin this week, the company announced it has been working with Australian outfit, Ironman 4x4, to make its vehicles more suitable for Australian conditions and tastes.
The company first touched on its intentions back in 2015, but had revealed no further details of its plans until now.
Kicking off the initiative is the Haval H9 (pictured), which will be released to market in the fourth quarter of this year.
Ironman 4x4 has developed a prototype suspension kit which includes heavier springs, upgraded shock absorber valving and slight changes to the toe-in setup, which the company says significantly improves the H9's ride and cornering performance on Australian roads.
At this stage, the Ironman-tuned H9 is a prototype only, and is the first step in an engagement between Ironman, Haval R&D engineers, and Haval Australia.
Should the tuning program become a mainstay for Oz-bound Haval products, the Chinese company will join Korean manufacturers Hyundai and Kia in having an Australia-specific tuning program.
CarAdvice is getting a first drive of a Haval H9 prototype with the Ironman 4x4 suspension upgrade this week, so stay tuned for a quick drive review.
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