Haval Big Dog Hi4 Second Generation Debuts in China with New Hybrid Off-Road Capabilities
The second generation Haval Big Dog Hi4 SUV has been officially introduced in China, with the model also marketed as the Dargo in Russia. This naming strategy mirrors a common practice among automakers to tailor branding to regional markets, as reported by carnewschina.com.
On the outside, the redesign remains restrained. The front fascia carries a polygonal grille that preserves the vehicle’s rugged family DNA, while a new high badge marked Hi4 appears on the tailgate to signal the latest iteration. The overall silhouette keeps its robust, go-anywhere character, yet the updates are more evolutionary than revolutionary.
Initial plans indicated that the Hi4 would launch with a gas-electric variant featuring front-wheel drive. The latest announcements, however, reveal an expanded lineup that includes an all-wheel-drive configuration and a more potent hybrid specifically developed to excel off road. This upgrade introduces a selection of seven driving modes, enabling a driver to switch between Economy, Sport, Mud, and Sand, among others, to suit varying terrains and conditions.
The heart of the new system is a three-motor hybrid arrangement built around a 1.5-liter gasoline engine. Combined output reaches 378 horsepower, aided by two electric motors. The claimed fuel consumption stands at 1.83 liters per 100 kilometers under mixed-cycle testing, underscoring a balance between performance and efficiency for an SUV of this capability. In electric-only mode, the Hi4 is capable of covering distances up to 102 kilometers, offering a practical zero-emission option for shorter trips or urban driving requirements.
In terms of pricing and market positioning, local dealer notes previously placed the model at around 2.2 million rubles when it wore the Kia Rio Solaris badge in earlier communications. The current branding and model designation reflect a broader, more premium interpretation of Haval’s rugged family SUV philosophy, aimed at buyers who value off-road competence alongside everyday practicality. This strategy aligns with the growing demand in the mid-size SUV segment for versatile powertrains that deliver both capability and efficiency without sacrificing comfort or daily usability.
As Haval continues to expand its global footprint, the Hi4’s evolution signals a broader industry trend toward multi-motor hybrids that blend high-output performance with improved fuel economy. The combination of AWD capability, diverse drive modes, and a substantial electric-range option positions the Big Dog Hi4 as a competitive choice in markets where off-road readiness and modern electrified powertrains are increasingly valued by consumers seeking adventure without sacrificing practicality. For enthusiasts and practical buyers alike, the Hi4 represents a compelling balance of rugged strength, modern technology, and adaptable driving dynamics.
Source notes indicate the initial announcement and subsequent updates originated from carnewschina.com, with regional branding details noted for Russia where the model is marketed as the Dargo. The evolving specifications reflect ongoing refinement as the vehicle moves through its launch phase, with future iterations likely to introduce additional configurations and feature sets that further enhance both on-road refinement and off-road capability.