Za Rulem Park stands as Russia’s oldest and most widely read automotive publication, and among its lineup of tested vehicles is the Haval Dargo — a rugged, SUV-like crossover designed for all terrains.
Typically, the magazine’s expert reviewer, Nikita Gudkov, handles the test drive and shares a meticulous, real-world assessment. After logging substantial highway and city miles, Gudkov presents a balanced view of the Dargo’s strengths and weaknesses, translating the experience into practical insights for readers in North America and beyond.
The report focuses on both practical use and long-term value, aiming to help enthusiasts understand what the Dargo delivers under daily conditions and what might give readers pause. Below is a clear breakdown of issues and advantages observed over extended driving, followed by a look at what makes the Dargo stand out in its class.
Minuses Haval Dargo
- The most noticeable drawback is the multimedia system loading time. The device takes around 20 seconds to become fully functional. While this alone may not be a deal-breaker, it affects comfort in cold weather because seat heating remains inactive until the system boots. In Canada and the United States, where winter starts early, this can be a meaningful inconvenience. A remote start option, not available on vehicles imported directly from China, could be a practical workaround for regions with harsh winters.
- The windshield features a complex shape that adds strength but makes wiper design and maintenance more demanding. To keep the glass consistently clear, high-quality wiper blades are necessary, and replacements may be more frequent due to the curved surface. This adds ongoing maintenance considerations for owners who value pristine visibility in varying climates.
- Despite a sizeable headlight assembly, the Dargo’s illumination is not class-leading. Each lamp uses only four LEDs, limiting the effective beam spread. Fog lights under the headlights are cosmetic in this setup, and the daytime running lights rely on two primary bulbs. In challenging road conditions, brightness and coverage may not measure up to the best in its segment.
Plus Haval Dargo
The Haval Dargo is powered by a robust 192-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. Despite tipping the scales at roughly 1.7 tons, the crossover accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in about 9 seconds, placing it ahead of many competitors in everyday traffic and highway merging scenarios. This performance translates to confident overtaking and quick responses on North American roads when needed.
Fuel compatibility is surprisingly straightforward: the manufacturer approves the use of AI-92 gasoline. Warranty coverage remains consistent at three years or 150,000 kilometers, regardless of whether premium fuel is used or lower-octane options are chosen. This offers practical flexibility for drivers who want to balance cost with reliability over the life of the vehicle.
Beyond the basics
There are additional nuances to consider with the Dargo. Enthusiasts will find that the crossover blends rugged capability with a comfortable interior, making it suitable for family trips, weekend adventures, and urban errands alike. The model aims to deliver a blend of space, power, and utility that appeals to buyers looking for a versatile daily driver that can handle rough roads without sacrificing everyday comfort. For a deeper dive into other specifications, the January issue of the magazine Behind the Wheel offers expanded coverage and detailed test results, with broader context about how the Dargo compares to its peers in similar price ranges and configurations.
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To participate, complete the Driving Grand Prix questionnaire and share your perspectives on the latest models. The engagement is designed to reflect real-world customer expectations across North America, drawing on feedback from Canadian and American drivers alike.
DRIVING GRAND PRIX QUESTIONNAIRE
The content reflects Nikita Gudkov’s observations from a feature originally published in Behind the Wheel magazine, focusing on practical fuel economy and real-world performance across varied driving scenarios.