The BYD Song Max 1.5TI (154 Hp) DCT was a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) produced by the Chinese automaker BYD from September 2017 to June 2019. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Song Max lineup, it aimed to provide a balance of practicality, fuel efficiency, and modern features for families in the Chinese market. The Song Max, as a whole, represented BYD’s ambition to compete in the growing MPV segment, offering a spacious and versatile alternative to traditional sedans and SUVs. This particular variant, with its 1.5-liter turbocharged engine and dual-clutch transmission (DCT), was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a more refined driving experience than the base models while remaining relatively affordable.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BYD |
| Model | Song Max |
| Generation | Song Max |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5TI (154 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | September, 2017 |
| End of production | June, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 6-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.9 l/100 km (21.6 US mpg, 25.9 UK mpg, 9.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | China V |
| Power | 154 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 102.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1750-3500 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 1750-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | BYD476ZQA |
| Engine displacement | 1497 cm3 (91.35 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.7 l (3.91 US qt | 3.26 UK qt) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Length | 4680 mm (184.25 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Height | 1680 mm (66.14 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2785 mm (109.65 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Song Max 1.5TI DCT is the BYD476ZQA 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is equipped with a turbocharger to boost power output. The turbocharger helps to mitigate turbo lag and provide a broader torque curve, enhancing drivability. The engine produces 154 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 3500 rpm. This output places it above the naturally aspirated engine options available in the Song Max range. The engine is paired with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), which offers quicker and smoother gear changes compared to a traditional automatic transmission. The DCT contributes to improved fuel efficiency and a more engaging driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5TI DCT variant of the Song Max delivers a noticeable improvement in performance over the lower-powered versions. The turbocharger provides ample low-end torque, making it easy to accelerate from a standstill and navigate city traffic. While not a sports car, the Song Max 1.5TI offers sufficient power for highway cruising and overtaking maneuvers. The DCT transmission shifts quickly and efficiently, contributing to a responsive feel. Compared to a manual transmission, the DCT offers convenience and ease of use, particularly in congested urban environments. However, some drivers may find the DCT’s shift logic slightly less intuitive than a traditional automatic. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride, but it may exhibit some body roll during cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Song Max 1.5TI DCT typically came equipped with a range of standard features, including air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a multi-function steering wheel, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as a larger touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, a rearview camera, leather upholstery, and automatic climate control. Safety features included ABS, electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), and airbags. The interior design was functional and modern, with a focus on practicality and space utilization. The Song Max was designed to accommodate up to seven passengers, depending on the seating configuration.
Chassis & Braking
The Song Max 1.5TI DCT utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout. The front suspension consists of independent McPherson struts, while the rear suspension employs a torsion beam setup. This configuration provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The braking system features ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear wheels. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability, especially in emergency situations. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion type with electric power assistance, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The BYD Song Max 1.5TI DCT was generally well-received in the Chinese market as a practical and affordable MPV. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and relatively fuel-efficient engine. However, some reviewers noted that the interior materials were not as premium as those found in some competing models. Compared to other MPVs in its class, such as the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna (which were often significantly more expensive), the Song Max offered a compelling value proposition. The 1.5TI DCT variant provided a noticeable performance upgrade over the base models, making it a popular choice for buyers who wanted a more refined driving experience.
Legacy
The BYD Song Max, including the 1.5TI DCT variant, played a significant role in establishing BYD as a major player in the Chinese automotive market. While production of the original Song Max ended in 2019, it paved the way for subsequent generations of the Song family of vehicles. The 1.5-liter turbocharged engine and DCT transmission combination proved to be a reliable and efficient powertrain, and it has been used in other BYD models. On the used car market, the Song Max 1.5TI DCT remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a spacious and practical MPV. Its relatively simple mechanical design and readily available parts contribute to its affordability and ease of maintenance.
