Haval’s popular Jolion range has been taken to the next level with the introduction of an evolved Pro model that heralds more technology and style.
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Time spent: One of three months
Distance travelled: 1 100 km
Average fuel consumption: 8.3 l/100 km
We like: Attractive design; a lot of technology
We don’t like: Turbo lag; throttle valve calibration
After arriving locally mid-year, the Jolion Pro looks to pick up where the Jolion left off; aimed at technology- and style-conscious buyers in the vibrant compact crossover segment. In the restructured Jolion range, the newer Pro includes the higher trim lines (including a hybrid and the more powerful S model we test here), while the outgoing model continues in the form of three more budget-conscious offerings with the City badge. This strategic move sees the Jolion range stretch from just under R350,000 to just over the half-million mark, with each of the different versions catering to buyer preference and budget.
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In the Pro S, both the underpinnings and powertrain components remain largely unchanged from the previous one, but Haval has redesigned the revised SUV styling, which incorporates a host of aerodynamic additions. During the local launch run, the fresh examples failed to impress in terms of fuel economy, often returning double-digit figures. But with more than 1,000 km on the clock and more varied routes under its belt, the long-term test unit has found its feet and the average hovers around the low limit of 8 l/100 km, which is not far off the 7 ,5. L/100 km claimed by Haval.
As before, the S model benefits from a larger turbocharger, giving overall power a healthy increase – now with 130kW and 270Nm, compared to the 105kW and 210Nm of the standard 1.5-litre turbo petrol generates. Unless driving in sport mode (which can only be accessed via various submenus in the infotainment system), there’s a noticeable amount of turbo lag, especially during full-throttle acceleration. On this subject, the Sport’s throttle calibration is slightly compromised, with half-load acceleration occasionally causing the gearbox to shuffle indecisively through the ratios.
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These minor quibbles aside, the S’s added styling and allure, especially when finished in our test version’s striking HD Blue, have made it a popular addition in my household and its wealth of comfort and safety technology (such as a ventilated driver’s seat and an impressive array of active safety features such as adaptive cruise control and lane keeping) means the ability to take longer journeys to see what kind of content lies beneath that style is something I eagerly await.
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