The Evolution of the Haima S5 and Haima 6P: From Compact Crossover to Plug-In Hybrid SUV
The Haima S5 is a compact crossover SUV produced by Chinese automaker Haima Automobile. Introduced in 2014, the S5 became one of the company’s most important models, helping strengthen Haima’s presence in the highly competitive compact SUV market. Over the years, the vehicle evolved through two generations and eventually gave rise to the Haima 6P, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) that represented the brand’s move toward electrification. The S5 and 6P share a common platform and design heritage, making them part of the same vehicle family.
Origins of the Haima S5
Haima’s history is closely linked to its former cooperation with Mazda. The company originally produced Mazda-based vehicles for the Chinese market before gradually developing its own products. By the early 2010s, demand for compact crossovers was growing rapidly in China, prompting Haima to develop a new SUV designed specifically for this expanding segment.
The result was the Haima S5, a five-door compact crossover SUV that debuted at the 2014 Beijing Auto Show. It featured modern styling, front-wheel drive, and a range of gasoline engines aimed at younger buyers seeking an affordable SUV.
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First Generation Haima S5 (2014–2017)
Production of the first-generation Haima S5 began in 2014 and continued through 2017. The model featured a contemporary design with swept-back headlights, a prominent grille, and a relatively spacious cabin for its class.
Powertrain Options
During its production run, the first-generation S5 was offered with the following engines:
| Engine | Power |
|---|---|
| 1.6-liter naturally aspirated inline-four | 122 hp |
| 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four | 163 hp |
Transmission choices included:
- 5-speed manual transmission
- Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) on turbocharged models
Trim Levels
Haima marketed the first-generation S5 in several trim grades depending on market and model year. While trim names varied regionally, the lineup generally included:
- Base manual models
- Mid-range comfort-oriented trims
- Higher-spec turbocharged trims
- Premium trims featuring larger infotainment screens, upgraded interiors, and additional safety equipment
Available features included:
- Touchscreen infotainment systems
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Rearview cameras
- Leather upholstery on higher trims
- Alloy wheels
- Electronic stability control on selected versions
The S5 helped establish Haima as a participant in China’s booming SUV segment, although it faced strong competition from domestic manufacturers such as Geely, Changan, and Great Wall.
Second Generation Haima S5 (2018–2021)
In 2018, Haima introduced an extensively revised second-generation S5 at the Beijing Auto Show. Although often described as a new generation, the vehicle remained based on the same underlying platform as its predecessor while receiving significant exterior and interior updates.
Design Changes
The redesigned S5 featured:
- Sharper front-end styling
- Redesigned headlights and taillights
- Larger grille
- More modern dashboard layout
- Updated infotainment technology
- Improved materials throughout the cabin
These updates helped the S5 remain competitive in a market increasingly dominated by technologically advanced compact SUVs.
Engine and Transmission Range
The second-generation S5 offered a wider selection of powertrains than its predecessor:
| Engine | Transmission Options |
|---|---|
| 1.6-liter gasoline | 5-speed manual |
| 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline | 6-speed manual or CVT |
| 1.2-liter turbocharged gasoline | 6-speed manual |
| 1.2-liter turbocharged gasoline | 6-speed automatic |
| 1.2-liter turbocharged gasoline | 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) |
This broad engine lineup allowed buyers to choose between affordability, performance, and efficiency.
Trim Levels
Depending on the model year and market, the second-generation S5 was offered in several trim grades. Common equipment levels ranged from entry-level models to fully equipped premium variants featuring:
- Large touchscreen displays
- Digital instrument panels
- Panoramic sunroofs
- Advanced driver-assistance technologies
- Keyless entry and push-button start
- Enhanced interior trim materials
The second-generation S5 remained in production until the company shifted its focus toward electrified vehicles.
Introduction of the Haima 6P (2021–2023)
The most significant development in the S5 family arrived with the launch of the Haima 6P. Introduced in early 2021, the 6P was essentially a plug-in hybrid version of the second-generation S5. Externally, the vehicle closely resembled the S5, although it incorporated distinctive blue accents and hybrid-specific styling cues.
The 6P represented Haima’s first production plug-in hybrid SUV and marked an important step in the company’s electrification strategy.
Production Years
| Model | Production Years |
|---|---|
| Haima S5 (First Generation) | 2014–2017 |
| Haima S5 (Second Generation) | 2018–2021 |
| Haima 6P | 2021–2023 |
Hybrid Powertrain
The Haima 6P utilized a sophisticated plug-in hybrid system consisting of:
- 1.2-liter turbocharged gasoline engine
- Permanent-magnet electric motor
- 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission
- CATL lithium-ion battery pack
Combined system output reached approximately 253 horsepower, making the 6P considerably more powerful than most gasoline-powered S5 variants. The vehicle could accelerate from 0–62 mph in roughly 7 seconds while delivering significantly improved fuel efficiency. Electric-only driving capability was rated at approximately 50 miles under Chinese testing standards.
Haima 6P Trim Levels
The 6P was offered in two primary trim levels during its market life:
- Base PHEV trim
- Premium PHEV trim
Higher-spec versions included additional convenience and technology features such as upgraded multimedia systems, advanced driver aids, and enhanced interior appointments.
Technology and Safety
Throughout its evolution, the S5 family incorporated increasingly advanced technology. Depending on year and trim, features included:
- Touchscreen infotainment systems
- Smartphone connectivity
- Navigation systems
- Rear parking cameras
- Tire pressure monitoring
- Electronic stability control
- Multiple airbags
- Hill-start assist
- Keyless entry
The 6P further enhanced the lineup with hybrid-specific energy management displays and regenerative braking technology.
Market Impact
Although Haima never achieved the sales volume of larger Chinese manufacturers, the S5 became one of the company’s most recognizable vehicles. It demonstrated Haima’s ability to compete in the compact crossover segment while providing a platform for future electrified products. The 6P, meanwhile, showcased the company’s willingness to embrace plug-in hybrid technology as Chinese regulations increasingly favored low-emission vehicles.
Future Outlook
As of 2026, Haima continues to focus on electrification and alternative-energy vehicles. While the traditional gasoline-powered S5 appears to have largely exited production, the development of the 6P demonstrated the company’s transition toward hybrid and electric technologies. Future successors are expected to place greater emphasis on battery-electric and plug-in hybrid powertrains, reflecting broader trends within the Chinese automotive industry.
The Haima S5 evolved from a conventional compact crossover introduced in 2014 into the technologically advanced Haima 6P plug-in hybrid by 2021. Across two generations, the S5 offered multiple gasoline engines, numerous trim levels, and steadily improving technology. The arrival of the 6P represented a major milestone for Haima, combining the practicality of the S5 with modern hybrid efficiency. While the future of the model line remains uncertain, the S5 and 6P together illustrate Haima’s journey from traditional SUV manufacturing toward an increasingly electrified future.
