So, let’s dive straight into my experience with the Haval Jolion’s mechanics. Overall, I’ve been pretty impressed, but there are definitely some things to consider.
First off, the engine. It’s a ONE-POINT-FIVE-LITER turbocharged unit, and for everyday driving, it’s got plenty of pep. I’ve found it handles city driving with ease, easily navigating traffic and merging onto highways. Acceleration is decent, not lightning-fast, but more than adequate for my needs. I’ve taken it on a couple of longer road trips, and it performed consistently well, even when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. Fuel economy has also been surprisingly good; I’m averaging around SIX point FIVE liters per ONE HUNDRED kilometers, which is better than I expected for a car of this size and power. However, there’s a slight lag in turbo response at lower RPMs, which can be a little frustrating in stop-and-go traffic. It’s not a major issue, but it’s something you’ll notice.
Next, let’s talk about the transmission. This is where things get a little more interesting. It’s a SEVEN-SPEED dual-clutch transmission, and while it shifts smoothly most of the time, there have been occasions where it’s been a bit hesitant or jerky, particularly when accelerating from a standstill or during low-speed maneuvers. It’s not a constant problem, but it’s noticeable enough to mention. I’ve also noticed a slight shudder at times when coming to a complete stop. Again, not a deal-breaker, but something to be aware of. I’ve read online that some owners have experienced more significant issues with the transmission, but thankfully, mine has been relatively trouble-free so far.
The suspension is another area where the Jolion shines. It provides a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and potholes effectively. It’s not overly soft, so you still feel connected to the road, but it’s definitely on the comfortable side. I’ve driven it on various road surfaces, from smooth highways to rough country lanes, and it’s handled them all with grace. The handling is also quite good; the steering is responsive and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and navigate winding roads. It’s not a sports car, but it’s certainly capable and enjoyable to drive.
Braking performance is also commendable. The brakes are responsive and provide good stopping power. I’ve never felt like they’ve lacked the ability to bring the car to a safe and timely stop. They feel confident and reassuring, which is crucial for safety.
Finally, I want to touch on the noise levels. Generally, the cabin is well-insulated, and road noise is kept to a minimum at highway speeds. However, at higher RPMs, engine noise does become more noticeable. It’s not excessively loud, but it’s definitely more prominent than I’d ideally like. Wind noise is also minimal, which is a positive. Overall, the noise levels are acceptable for a car in this class, but it’s something to keep in mind.
So, let’s dive straight into the mechanics of my Haval Jolion, specifically the Manual Kinetic Power Package, or MKPP as Haval calls it. First, the downsides. Honestly, the biggest drawback for me is the clutch. It’s not terribly heavy, but it has a very specific engagement point that took some getting used to. I stalled a few times in the first week, which was a little embarrassing, but I’ve gotten much better now. The feel isn’t quite as smooth as some other clutches I’ve experienced; it’s a bit grabbier, which can make low-speed maneuvering a little less refined. This is especially noticeable in stop-and-go traffic. You really have to be gentle with it.
Another point worth mentioning is the gear shifting itself. While the throws aren’t excessively long, they’re not exactly short and precise either. There’s a slight notchy feel to the gear changes, and sometimes I find myself having to be a little more forceful than I’d like to get the gears to engage perfectly. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s definitely something that could be improved. I’ve noticed that the shifting becomes a bit more difficult when the engine is cold, adding to the slight frustration. It smooths out as the engine warms up, but that initial cold-start stiffness is something to be aware of.
Now, let’s talk about the positives. Despite the quirks of the clutch and gear shifting, the MKPP itself has proven to be surprisingly reliable. I’ve had the car for over SIX MONTHS now, and I haven’t experienced any major mechanical issues with the transmission. It’s held up well under various driving conditions, from city driving to longer highway trips. This reliability is a huge plus for me.
Furthermore, the fuel economy is excellent. I’m consistently getting around THIRTY-FIVE to FORTY miles per gallon, which is significantly better than I expected for a vehicle of this size and class. This is a major selling point, especially with the current fuel prices. The engine itself is quite responsive, especially once it’s warmed up. It pulls well in most situations, and overtaking is generally straightforward. It’s not a powerhouse, but it’s perfectly adequate for everyday driving. I’ve even taken it on a few slightly more challenging inclines, and it handled them surprisingly well.
Finally, the overall driving experience, despite the minor transmission quirks, is quite enjoyable. The Jolion is a fun car to drive, and the manual transmission adds a level of engagement that you just don’t get with an automatic. The feedback from the road is decent, and the steering is responsive enough to make driving feel engaging. It’s not a sports car, but it’s far from boring. The combination of good fuel economy, reliability, and a reasonably engaging driving experience makes up for the minor drawbacks of the MKPP.


