The BYD Song Plus DM-i 1.5 26.6 kWh (197 Hp) E-CVT Champion Edition is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) produced by the Chinese automaker BYD from June 2023 to July 2024. Positioned as a mid-range trim within the facelifted Song Plus lineup, it represents BYD’s commitment to new energy vehicles and caters to consumers seeking fuel efficiency and reduced emissions without sacrificing practicality. This variant is primarily marketed within China, leveraging the country’s growing infrastructure for electric and hybrid vehicles. The “DM-i” designation signifies BYD’s Dual Mode-i technology, emphasizing the vehicle’s ability to operate in both fully electric and hybrid modes.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BYD |
| Model | Song |
| Generation | Song Plus (facelift 2023) |
| Type (Engine) | DM-i 1.5 26.6 kWh (197 Hp) E-CVT Champion Edition |
| Start of production | June, 2023 |
| End of production | July, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 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 |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Gross battery capacity | 26.6 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range | 116 km (72.08 mi) |
| Electric motor power | 197 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 325 Nm (239.71 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Front, Transverse |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 197 Hp |
| Engine Power | 110 Hp |
| Power per litre | 73.4 Hp/l |
| Engine Torque | 135 Nm (99.57 lb.-ft.) |
| 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 | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4775 mm (187.99 in.) |
| Width | 1890 mm (74.41 in.) |
| Height | 1670 mm (65.75 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2765 mm (108.86 in.) |
| Front track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Rear track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Gearbox | automatic transmission E-CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| 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 | 235/50 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Song Plus DM-i Champion Edition utilizes BYD’s DM-i (Dual Mode-i) hybrid system. This system centers around a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine (code Xiaoyun) producing 110 horsepower and 135 Nm (99.57 lb.-ft.) of torque. This engine primarily functions as a generator to power the electric motor, although it can directly drive the wheels at higher speeds or under certain conditions for improved efficiency. The electric motor, a synchronous unit, delivers 197 horsepower and 325 Nm (239.71 lb.-ft.) of torque. A 26.6 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery pack, located under the vehicle floor, provides an all-electric range of 116 km (72.08 miles) according to WLTC standards. The E-CVT (electronically controlled continuously variable transmission) manages power delivery, offering smooth and efficient operation. The DM-i system prioritizes electric driving whenever possible, resulting in significantly reduced fuel consumption compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.
Driving Characteristics
The 197 hp combined output of the DM-i system provides adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 8.5 seconds. In electric mode, the vehicle offers near-silent operation and instant torque, making it well-suited for urban commutes. The E-CVT transmission contributes to a seamless driving experience, eliminating the gear shifts associated with conventional automatic transmissions. Compared to higher-output versions of the Song Plus, this variant prioritizes fuel efficiency over outright performance. The DM-i system’s intelligent control logic optimizes power distribution between the engine and electric motor, ensuring a balance between responsiveness and economy. The relatively low engine torque (135 Nm) means that the engine needs to work harder when direct drive is engaged, especially during overtaking maneuvers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Champion Edition trim typically includes standard features such as LED headlights, a large touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, a digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) including adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist. Interior upholstery is generally a combination of leatherette and fabric. Optional extras often include a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and upgraded interior trim materials. The Champion Edition represents a well-equipped mid-range offering, balancing features and affordability.
Chassis & Braking
The Song Plus DM-i Champion Edition features an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and stable handling. Ventilated disc brakes are used at the front, while solid discs are employed at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort, but it also offers reasonable body control during cornering. The electric steering system provides light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The BYD Song Plus DM-i has been well-received in the Chinese market, praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and advanced technology. Critics have noted the smooth operation of the DM-i system and the generous all-electric range. Compared to the petrol-only versions of the Song Plus, the DM-i offers significantly improved fuel economy. Compared to other PHEV SUVs in the Chinese market, the Song Plus DM-i is often seen as a competitive offering in terms of price, performance, and features. Reliability reports are still emerging, but BYD has a growing reputation for building durable and dependable vehicles.
Legacy
The BYD Song Plus DM-i 1.5 26.6 kWh Champion Edition represents a significant step forward in BYD’s development of new energy vehicles. The DM-i technology has proven to be popular with consumers, and the Song Plus has become one of BYD’s best-selling models. The long-term reliability of the DM-i powertrain remains to be fully assessed, but the use of LiFePO4 batteries is generally considered to be a positive factor, as these batteries are known for their stability and long lifespan. As the demand for electric and hybrid vehicles continues to grow, the Song Plus DM-i is likely to remain a relevant and competitive offering in the Chinese market and potentially in other markets as BYD expands its global presence.
