The BYD Song Plus DM-i 1.5 26.6 kWh (218 Hp) is a plug-in hybrid SUV produced by the Chinese automaker BYD. Introduced with the facelifted Song Plus range in July 2024, this variant represents a significant step in BYD’s strategy to offer efficient and technologically advanced vehicles, primarily targeted towards the Chinese domestic market. The “DM-i” designation signifies BYD’s Dual Mode-i technology, emphasizing a focus on electric driving with a gasoline engine acting as a range extender. This model is positioned as a mid-range offering within the Song Plus lineup, balancing performance, fuel economy, and features. It builds upon the foundation of the original Song Plus (launched in 2020) and incorporates updated styling and powertrain refinements.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BYD |
| Model | Song |
| Generation | Song Plus (facelift 2023) |
| Type (Engine) | DM-i 1.5 26.6 kWh (218 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid E-CVT |
| Start of production | July, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (WLTC) | 4.98 l/100 km (47.2 US mpg, 56.7 UK mpg, 20.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Gross battery capacity | 26.6 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (CLTC) | 160 km (99.42 mi) |
| Electric motor power | 218 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 260 Nm (191.77 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Front, Transverse |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 218 Hp |
| System torque | 260 Nm (191.77 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 101 Hp |
| Torque | 126 Nm (92.93 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 (Back) track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive. PHEV. ICE and electric motor drive the front wheels. |
| Number of gears and type of 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 1.5 utilizes BYD’s DM-i hybrid system, which centers around a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder gasoline engine (code-named Xiaoyun) paired with a single electric motor. The gasoline engine produces 101 horsepower and 92.93 lb-ft of torque. It’s primarily used to generate electricity, although it can directly drive the wheels under certain conditions, such as highway cruising. The electric motor delivers 218 horsepower and 191.77 lb-ft of torque, providing the primary source of propulsion. The system’s total combined output is 218 horsepower. The engine employs multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT). The E-CVT (electronically controlled continuously variable transmission) isn’t a traditional CVT; it’s a single-speed reduction gear that allows the electric motor to operate at its most efficient RPM range. The 26.6 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery pack is located under the floor, providing a CLTC-rated all-electric range of 160 km (99.42 miles).
Driving Characteristics
The DM-i 1.5 powertrain prioritizes efficiency and a smooth driving experience. In typical driving scenarios, the vehicle operates in electric mode, offering near-silent acceleration and instant torque. The transition between electric and hybrid modes is seamless and largely imperceptible to the driver. The E-CVT contributes to this smoothness, eliminating the stepped gear changes of a conventional automatic transmission. While the 0-60 mph time of 7.5 seconds is respectable, it’s not as brisk as some of the more performance-oriented trims. The focus is on providing adequate power for everyday driving while maximizing fuel economy. Compared to potential turbocharged variants, the 1.5L engine offers a more linear power delivery, but with less overall punch. The heavier battery pack does impact handling slightly, but the independent suspension helps to mitigate body roll.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Song Plus DM-i 1.5 typically comes well-equipped, reflecting its mid-range positioning. Standard features generally include a large touchscreen infotainment system (often exceeding 12 inches), a digital instrument cluster, leather upholstery, automatic climate control, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras can include a panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, and ventilated front seats. Interior trim levels vary, with higher trims offering more refined materials and additional comfort features. The dashboard layout is modern and minimalist, emphasizing the large central touchscreen.
Chassis & Braking
The Song Plus DM-i 1.5 features a front-wheel-drive layout. The front suspension utilizes an independent McPherson strut design, while the rear employs an independent multi-link suspension. This setup provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The electric steering system offers light and precise steering feel. The vehicle rides on 19-inch alloy wheels with tire size 235/50 R19.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Song Plus DM-i 1.5 has been well-received in the Chinese market, where demand for plug-in hybrid vehicles is high. Critics have praised its fuel efficiency, smooth driving experience, and comprehensive feature set. Compared to other trims in the Song Plus lineup, such as those with larger gasoline engines, the DM-i 1.5 prioritizes efficiency over outright performance. It offers a compelling alternative for buyers who primarily commute in urban environments and have access to charging infrastructure. Its fuel economy of 4.98 l/100 km is significantly better than that of the gasoline-only variants. Reliability reports are still emerging, but BYD has a generally good reputation for build quality and powertrain durability.
Legacy
The BYD Song Plus DM-i 1.5 represents a key step in BYD’s transition towards becoming a leading global electric vehicle manufacturer. The DM-i technology demonstrates BYD’s expertise in hybrid powertrain development and its commitment to reducing emissions. 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 they are known for their stability and longevity. On the used car market, this variant is expected to hold its value well, particularly as demand for plug-in hybrids continues to grow. The combination of efficiency, technology, and practicality positions the Song Plus DM-i 1.5 as a significant contender in the competitive SUV segment.
