Haval F7

Unveiled in late 2018, the first-generation F7 was launched simultaneously in China and Russia, signaling Great Wall’s first large-scale export offensive. Russian assembly began at the Tula plant, while domestic sales centered on urban buyers. A sleeker cross-coupe body style followed in 2019, adding variety to the lineup. Between 2021 and 2025, China received the second generation sold under the separate Haval Shenshou name, whereas Russia continued, and finally adopted in 2024, the second generation as the revived F7—a deliberate stagger kept the badge alive for export markets.

At 4620 mm long, 1846 mm wide and 1690 mm tall, the F7 rides on compact-SUV footprints slightly shorter but wider than many European rivals, giving it a planted stance. Distinctive coupe-like roof and sharp surface creases have drawn consistent comment since debut, particularly on the F7x coupe derivative that arrived a year later.

Two generations exist, yet the market split gives the F7 an unusual dual identity. Chinese customers transitioned to the Haval Shenshou after 2021; meanwhile, Russian and select export markets continued to receive the second-generation car still badged F7, arriving only in 2024—effectively creating sibling timelines under one model name.

By anchoring Great Wall’s early European and Asian expansion efforts, the F7 demonstrated Chinese SUVs could compete on styling and packaging abroad. Its sustained presence in Russia and evolving derivative names underscore how product cycles are now being tailored market-by-market, a strategy increasingly common for emerging Chinese brands.