BYD Song Plus DM-i

First, some background on this car. BYD introduced the DM-i system to the Song Plus in 2021, at a time when there were virtually no competitive plug-in hybrid SUVs on the market. Great Wall, Geely, and Changan were all still exploring their own hybrid routes, while BYD had already achieved a depleted battery fuel consumption of 4.4L/100km. Over the past two years, this car has maintained stable monthly sales of over 40,000 units, even reaching 50,000 in some months. Other manufacturers were green with envy, and last year they all rushed to join the market.

5th Generation DM Technology

The biggest change in the 2025 model is the adoption of the 5th generation DM system. It features a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine producing 74kW, paired with a 160kW drive motor. The official engine thermal efficiency is rated at 46.06%, with a compression ratio of 16:1. I can't verify these numbers, but I watched the actual fuel consumption figures with my own eyes during the test.

The official rating is 3.9L, and my test result was actually slightly lower than the official figure. This surprised even me.

Driving Experience

The 2025 model has switched to an E-type four-link rear suspension, with noticeably thicker lower control arms. I've driven the older model before, and the difference is perceptible. Going over speed bumps feels less jarring, and the rear end is more stable during high-speed lane changes.

Regarding power, the official 0-100km/h acceleration is 7.7 seconds, half a second faster than the older model's 8.2 seconds. You don't really feel the difference in daily driving, but when overtaking on the highway, the motor response is genuinely quick. Press the accelerator and power is there immediately — no waiting for turbo boost.

Noise control is average. You can hear the engine when it kicks in during depleted battery driving — not loud, but not quiet either. Wind noise and tire noise are acceptable below 80km/h, but become noticeably more prominent above 100km/h. At this price point, that's about what you'd expect.

Infotainment & Features

The infotainment system uses DiLink 100, with a 6nm chip that BYD claims scores 540,000 on benchmarks — higher than the 8155. In my actual use, it's just smooth with no lag, and apps open faster than the Haval I tested previously. The entire range now comes with 5G, so navigation and online music load quickly.

There's a three-finger blind operation feature where you can swipe in the navigation area to adjust A/C temperature and fan speed without looking at the screen. I tried it several times, and once you get used to it, it's genuinely convenient.

Range & Charging

Three pure electric range versions are available: 75km, 112km, and 160km, corresponding to battery capacities of 12.96kWh, 18.32kWh, and 26.59kWh respectively. These are WLTC figures, so real-world range will be discounted — I'd estimate around 80% of rated range.

The 112km version supports fast charging, going from 30% to 80% in half an hour. The 75km version doesn't have fast charging — only slow charging is available, so keep that in mind.

The official combined range is 1,550km. I haven't driven that far, so I can't verify it. But based on my fuel consumption results, 1,500km shouldn't be a problem.

Competitive Landscape

At this price point, there are only a few plug-in hybrid SUVs worth considering: Deepal S07, Galaxy L7, and Haval Xiaolong MAX.

Model	Powertrain	Key Strength	Key Weakness
BYD Song Plus DM-i	DM-i E-CVT	Excellent low-speed efficiency	Nothing stands out dramatically
Galaxy L7	1.5T + 3-speed DHT	Better highway efficiency, 0-100 under 7s	Multi-gear less efficient at low speeds
Deepal S07	Range Extender (RWD)	Best chassis tuning, superior handling	Range extender efficiency claims questionable
Haval Xiaolong MAX	Hi4 Dual Motor AWD	AWD capability, aggressive pricing	Real-world fuel consumption disappointing

The Galaxy L7 uses a 1.5T engine with a 3-speed DHT, which means slightly lower highway fuel consumption than DM-i and more powerful acceleration — 0-100 under 7 seconds. However, at low city speeds, the multi-gear structure is actually less efficient than DM-i's E-CVT.

The Deepal S07 is a range-extended vehicle with rear-wheel drive. Personally, I think its chassis tuning is the best among these competitors — handling feels better than the Song Plus. The question is the range extender efficiency; the official claim of 3.3 kWh per liter depends heavily on driving conditions.

The Xiaolong MAX focuses on all-wheel drive with the Hi4 system's front and rear dual motors, and pricing has become quite aggressive. The issue is fuel consumption — real-world test data is significantly higher than official figures, with some media tests showing numbers comparable to conventional gasoline cars.

The Song Plus DM-i's advantage is its balance. Nothing particularly outstanding, but no obvious weaknesses either. Low city fuel consumption, decent highway performance, adequate space, comprehensive features, high brand recognition. For most family buyers, choosing this car won't be a mistake.

Pricing & Purchase Recommendations

The 2025 model saw a price increase of 6,000 RMB across the range, with the entry price at 135,800 RMB and the top trim at 175,800 RMB. The price hike drew criticism online, but actual order volume still exploded — the 112km Premium variant at 155,800 RMB is the best seller.

My recommendation is to buy the 112km Premium variant. Compared to the entry model, you get fast charging, longer EV range, plus a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features. Spending an extra 20,000 RMB is worth it.

I don't really recommend the 75km version. The pure electric range is too short, no fast charging — it might barely cover daily commuting, but any longer trips mean burning fuel. When buying a plug-in hybrid at this price point, isn't the whole point to save on fuel costs?

The 160km Flagship is suitable for those who do a lot of long-distance driving, or situations where you don't have a home charger but your workplace does. Running about 100km on pure electric can cover most urban commuting needs.