The BYD Song Max DM-i 1.5 (179 Hp) E-CVT, introduced in January 2022, represents a significant iteration of BYD’s popular Song Max multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). This variant, part of the facelifted 2021 model year, is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) designed for the Chinese automotive market, offering a blend of fuel efficiency and practicality. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Song Max lineup, it caters to families and buyers seeking a spacious and technologically advanced vehicle. The DM-i designation signifies BYD’s “Dual Mode – intelligent” hybrid technology, prioritizing electric driving while retaining the flexibility of a gasoline engine.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BYD |
| Model | Song Max |
| Generation | Song Max (facelift 2021) |
| Type (Engine) | DM-i 1.5 (179 Hp) E-CVT |
| Start of production | January, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 6-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h (99.42 mph) |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Gross battery capacity | 8.3 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) |
| Battery location | Below the floor, under the front seats |
| All-electric range | 51 km (31.69 mi) |
| Electric motor power | 179 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 316 Nm (233.07 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Front, Transverse |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 179 Hp |
| Engine Power | 110 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Engine Torque | 135 Nm @ 4500 rpm (99.57 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Xiaoyun |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 3 l (3.17 US qt | 2.64 UK qt) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Length | 4710 mm (185.43 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Height | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2785 mm (109.65 in.) |
| Front track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Rear track | 1530 mm (60.24 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive. PHEV. ICE and electric motor drive front wheels. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission E-CVT |
| 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 | 225/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Song Max DM-i 1.5 utilizes a sophisticated PHEV powertrain. At its heart is a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder engine, designated the ‘Xiaoyun’ code. This engine produces 110 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 135 Nm (99.57 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4500 rpm. The engine employs multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT) to optimize efficiency. However, the engine isn’t directly responsible for driving the wheels most of the time. Instead, it primarily functions as a generator to charge the 8.3 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery pack located under the front seats. The electric motor, delivering 179 horsepower and 316 Nm (233.07 lb.-ft.) of torque, is the primary source of propulsion. The E-CVT (electronically controlled continuously variable transmission) manages power delivery from both the engine and the electric motor, offering seamless transitions between power sources. This setup allows for a pure electric range of 51 km (31.69 miles) under NEDC testing conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The DM-i 1.5 variant prioritizes a smooth and quiet driving experience. In typical driving scenarios, the vehicle operates in electric mode, providing instant torque and brisk acceleration. The 0-60 mph time is approximately 8.1 seconds, and 0-100 km/h takes 8.5 seconds, which is competitive for its class. When the battery is depleted or requires additional power, the gasoline engine seamlessly kicks in to act as a generator, maintaining drive without noticeable interruption. The E-CVT contributes to a smooth, stepless acceleration feel. Compared to other Song Max trims with conventional gasoline engines, the DM-i offers superior fuel economy and reduced emissions. It also provides a quieter cabin experience, especially in electric mode. Compared to higher-output versions, the 1.5L DM-i sacrifices some outright performance, but gains significantly in efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Song Max DM-i 1.5 typically comes well-equipped, reflecting its positioning as a mid-range offering. Standard features generally include automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, power windows and locks, and a rearview camera. Interior upholstery is typically cloth or a combination of cloth and leatherette. Higher trim levels offer upgrades such as leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Optional extras often include upgraded sound systems and various cosmetic enhancements.
Chassis & Braking
The Song Max DM-i 1.5 utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout. The front suspension employs an independent McPherson strut design, while the rear suspension features a torsion beam setup. This configuration balances ride comfort and handling. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. The vehicle rides on 17-inch alloy wheels with tire size 225/55 R17.
Market Reception & Comparison
The BYD Song Max DM-i 1.5 has been well-received in the Chinese market, where demand for PHEVs is strong. Critics have praised its fuel efficiency, smooth driving experience, and spacious interior. Compared to the standard gasoline-powered Song Max variants, the DM-i offers significantly better fuel economy – 4.4 l/100 km versus higher figures for the gasoline models. It also provides a quieter and more refined driving experience. Compared to other PHEV MPVs in the Chinese market, the Song Max DM-i offers a competitive combination of price, features, and range.
Legacy
The BYD Song Max DM-i 1.5 represents a key step in BYD’s transition towards electrification. The DM-i technology has proven to be reliable, and the LiFePO4 battery pack is known for its safety and longevity. In the used car market, these vehicles are generally sought after for their fuel efficiency and practicality. The Song Max DM-i has helped establish BYD as a leading player in the Chinese new energy vehicle (NEV) market, paving the way for future electric and hybrid models.
