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Haval Dargo: compact crossover with off-road character
Haval Dargo (Big Dog in China) — a compact crossover introduced in 2020 for the Great Wall Motor Haval brand. In this article, we review its technology, engines, and what to check when looking for a used or new car.
Dargo in brief
The Dargo is a compact crossover with a distinctive, angular design and off-road appeal. It's built on the L.E.M.O.N. platform, which is also used by the Haval H6 and Jolion.
The car offers a comfortable interior, plenty of features, and good off-road potential. It's relatively rare in Lithuania.
Which version to choose
The key decision is the engine and transmission. The less powerful version with a 1.5-litre turbo engine has front-wheel drive, while the more powerful one has a 2.0-litre turbo with all-wheel drive.
When buying, consider the warranty, service availability, and parts supply, as the model is new and rare in Lithuania.
Engines and transmissions
In China, two turbo engines are offered: a 1.5-litre (around 170 hp) and a 2.0-litre (around 210 hp). The former is paired with front-wheel drive, the latter with all-wheel drive.
Power output may vary in other markets. The transmission is usually a six-speed manual or automatic, with all-wheel-drive versions featuring lockers and driving modes.
What to check when buying a Dargo
Check the operation of the six-speed manual transmission, turbocharger, and cooling system. Test the all-wheel drive and electronics.
Find out the warranty conditions and service availability in Lithuania.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we describe the most commonly encountered versions.
Dargo 1.5T
from 2020Version with a 1.5-litre turbo engine and front-wheel drive.
- 1.5-litre turbo, around 170 hp
- Front-wheel drive
- Often — full safety kit
Dargo 2.0T 4WD
from 2020More powerful version with all-wheel drive.
- 2.0-litre turbo, around 210 hp
- All-wheel drive
- Often — two locks and driving modes
Trim comparison
| 1.5T | 2.0T 4WD | |
|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | For the city and daily use | For the motorway and longer journeys |
| Engine | 1.5 l turbo | 2.0 l turbo |
| Gearbox | Front-wheel drive | Four-wheel drive |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Mid-range | High-end |
Most buyers will find the 1.5 l version sufficient. The 2.0 l with four-wheel drive is worth considering if you need more power or off-road capability.
Pros
- Distinctive design and rugged appeal
- Good value for money
- Four-wheel drive in the more powerful version
- Comfortable interior
Cons
- New model, limited information on reliability
- Limited service network
- Limited selection on the used market
Frequently asked questions
Is the Dargo the same as the Big Dog?
Yes, Dargo is the Big Dog name for export markets.
Is the Dargo a true 4x4?
It has a monocoque body and all-wheel drive with lockers, but it's a crossover, not a body-on-frame 4x4.
Is it worth buying a Dargo in Lithuania?
If you like the design and have somewhere to service it, then yes. Before buying, compare warranties and prices.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
