The newly launched BYD Song L DM-i has generated significant buzz. Within the first 72 hours, BYD recorded an average of 8 to 10 new orders per dealership. With nearly 2,000 Destiny dealerships nationwide, this translates to approximately 20,000 new orders for the Song L DM-i.
The BYD Song L DM-i crossover is equipped with BYD’s fifth-gen DM-i plug-in hybrid system. It has a 1.5-liter engine with 74 kW and 126 Nm torque, paired with a 160 kW and 260 Nm electric motor. The engine, BYD472QC, has a thermal efficiency of 46.06% and debuted with the Qin L and Seal 06 DM-i models. The Song L DM-i offers battery options of 12.9 kWh, 18.3 kWh, and 26.6 kWh, providing electric ranges of 75 km, 112 km, and 160 km, respectively (CLTC cycle). Using NEDC calculations, fuel consumption is 3.88, 3.90, and 3.93 l/100 km. The comprehensive range reaches up to 1500 km.
The mid-size SUV measures 4780/1898/1670 mm and has a wheelbase of 2782 mm. Inside, the PHEV crossover offers a 2+3 seating layout. It is 5mm longer than the Song Plus (Seal U in Europe, Sea Lion 6 in Australia and New Zealand); see specs. The Song L DM-i features BYD’s Dragon Face design language, following the styling cues of the recently launched Qin L sedan.
The front end boasts a large blackened grille, representing a “dragon’s mouth,” complemented by thin LED lights and a trapeze-shaped air intake. The wheel arches have plastic trim, adding sturdiness, and other notable features include retractable door handles and tinted rear windows. The rear design incorporates BYD’s signature taillight unit with an integrated Chinese knot pattern, a roof spoiler, and an independent rear suspension.
On July 25, BYD launched the Song L DM-i alongside an updated version of the Song Plus DM-i (see specs). Both models use the same fifth-generation PHEV system and offer five versions, ranging from 135,800 to 175,800 yuan (18,800 – 24,300 USD). The Song L stands out as a new entry, filling the gap between the Song Pro DM-i (see specs) and Tang DM-i (see specs) in the Dynasty range.
Customer preferences reveal that 40% opted for the 112 Leading version at 145,800 yuan (20,150 USD), 20% chose the 112 Transcendent version at 155,800 yuan (21,550 USD), and another 20% selected the 160 Transcendent version at 165,800 yuan (22,950 USD). Compared to the Song Plus, the Song L DM-i’s sleek design and features, such as hidden door handles, attract a younger demographic. The introduction of the Song L DM-i aims to carve out its niche in the competitive new energy vehicle market, building on the success of the Song Plus, which has sold over a million units.
Editor’s note:
When BYD initially unveiled the DM 5.0 technology, it simultaneously introduced two models: the Qin L and the Seal 06 DM-i. While the two vehicles share fundamental similarities, both models are tuned differently. The Seal 06 DM-i (see test report) has firmer suspensions to offer a sportier ride, while the Qin L is tuned for a softer and more comfortable ride. Since BYD Song L DM-i is sold under the Destiny umbrella, we expect it to be tuned for a softer and more comfortable ride like the Qin L.
