Boxy is back: the SUVs arriving in New Zealand and those still to come

Straight sides, upright windscreens and squared-off silhouettes are making their presence felt in New Zealand's SUV market. The latest Haval H7 has arrived locally, while a fresh group of electrified SUVs is lined up for 2027.

They share a taste for rugged styling, but they are aimed at different buyers. Some are family SUVs with an adventurous look; others have a stronger focus on tackling difficult terrain. Here's what is known about five to watch.

Haval H7: the local arrival

NZ status: launched in October 2026.

The H7 is a five-seat medium SUV with a choice of hybrid and plug-in hybrid power. GWM's local range starts at $49,990 plus on-road costs for the Lux 2WD Hybrid. The Vanta Hybrid AWD is $55,990 and the Vanta PHEV AWD is $61,990, both before on-road costs.

The entry model drives two wheels, while the Vanta versions add all-wheel drive. GWM says the AWD models have a locking rear differential, a useful feature to investigate if traction on loose surfaces matters to you.

For a family considering the H7, the choice comes down to more than its squared-off shape: whether you need AWD and whether you can regularly charge the plug-in hybrid are likely to matter more day to day.

Geely Battleship 700: the big one

NZ status: confirmed for the second half of 2027.

The Battleship 700 takes the theme in a more overtly off-road direction. Geely New Zealand has confirmed the five-seat plug-in hybrid SUV for a local launch, but final local specifications have yet to be announced.

Overseas reporting describes a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, a battery and three electric motors. An overseas output of up to 830 kW gives an indication of its ambitions, although buyers will need to wait for confirmation of the New Zealand version and its price.

Its scale and intended use make it a different proposition from the H7. Check the eventual local dimensions, towing rating and off-road equipment before deciding whether it suits your driveway and your plans.

iCaur V25: a new name with a familiar shape

NZ status: expected in 2027.

Chery-backed iCaur is preparing to enter New Zealand, with the V25 set to be its first local model. Round headlights and an upright body give the V25 a classic off-roader look, but it uses unibody construction, like many modern family SUVs.

The brand has described both battery-electric and range-extender versions internationally. A range-extender uses a petrol engine to generate electricity for the vehicle. Which powertrains and equipment New Zealand will receive, and what they will cost, remain to be confirmed.

The V25 could appeal to buyers who want the look of a compact adventure vehicle with electrified power. Its actual ability on rough tracks will depend on the local specification and deserves a closer look when the vehicle arrives.

Freelander 8: a familiar name returns

NZ status: confirmed for 2027.

Freelander is returning as a brand developed by Chery and JLR, and the Freelander 8 will lead its New Zealand launch. The name may recall the compact Land Rover of the past, but the new 8 is a much larger SUV, measuring more than five metres long in overseas specifications.

The vehicle has been presented with five- and six-seat layouts and a premium focus. Overseas models are offered with electrified powertrains, but New Zealand buyers will need to wait for local pricing, powertrain and equipment details.

Ford Bronco Basecamp: built for a night away

NZ status: confirmed for the second half of 2027.

Ford's Bronco Basecamp brings a camping-oriented twist to the boxy SUV. Its range-extender powertrain uses electric motors to drive the wheels and a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine as an onboard generator.

Ford says the seats fold to create a sleeping space, and it has shown an electric pop-up roof on the Outer Banks model. Local variants, pricing and final specifications are still to be confirmed, so buyers will need to wait to see which features make it here.

What should buyers look for?

A square body can deliver a distinctive look, but it does not by itself tell you how an SUV will perform away from sealed roads. Check whether the version you are considering has two-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, suitable tyres, useful ground clearance and the towing capacity you need. Independent testing will help establish what each vehicle can do in practice.

For now, the H7 is the model with published New Zealand pricing. The others are worth watching, but their local specifications, prices and launch timing may still change.