When it comes to finding a balance between the internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicles (EV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) offer an excellent middle ground. One such example is the BYD Song Plus PHEV FWD 2024. BYD, a rising Chinese automaker, has made a name for itself with affordable yet tech-laden electric and hybrid vehicles, and the Song Plus is a testament to its growing reputation.
Let’s dive into an in-depth review of the BYD Song Plus PHEV to assess its design, powertrain, features, and overall practicality.
Performance and Powertrain
The BYD Song Plus PHEV does not follow the fully electric route like some of BYD's other models. Instead, it employs a hybrid powertrain, which combines a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine with an electric motor. This setup is ideal for those who aren’t yet ready to embrace full EVs but still want to reduce their carbon footprint. Power is sent to the front wheels via an E-CVT transmission.
This hybrid system generates a combined power output of 197 hp from the electric motor and 139 hp from the petrol engine, with torque figures reaching 325 Nm and 231 Nm, respectively. With these specs, the Song Plus accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8.3 seconds, a respectable figure for a hybrid SUV in this price range.
In terms of driving dynamics, the Song Plus shines in comfort, but its handling could be improved. The McPherson struts upfront and multi-link rear suspension provide a comfortable ride, but the steering tends to feel light and imprecise, especially in its default driving mode, "Ordinary." Fortunately, switching to "Sport" mode adds a bit of weight to the steering, making the drive more engaging. Nonetheless, sharp corners can cause some body roll, meaning it’s not the most agile vehicle in its class.
Range and Charging
BYD claims an impressive total range of 1,000 km for the Song Plus, although real-world tests suggest a more modest figure of 775 km—still a notable achievement for a PHEV. With a fuel economy of 5.2 litres per 100 km, the Song Plus remains efficient during long drives. Thanks to its 18 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, it can achieve up to 110 km of pure electric range, which is perfect for daily commutes with zero tailpipe emissions.
Charging the Song Plus is straightforward, with the option to plug it into a 6.6 kW home charger. While this is convenient for overnight charging, it’s worth noting that the vehicle does not support DC fast charging, a feature found in some rival hybrids and electric vehicles.
Features: Connectivity and Functionality
In terms of features, the BYD Song Plus is packed with modern tech aimed at making the driving experience enjoyable and convenient. The infotainment system is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless smartphone connectivity. Other features include cruise control, automatic climate control, and a remote starter, though the latter can be temperamental in its functionality.
One area where the Song Plus falls slightly short is its voice control system. While it's included as a selling point, the system's responsiveness can be lacklustre, particularly when trying to input navigation details. The 9-speaker Dirac audio system also offers average sound quality—acceptable for casual listening but unlikely to impress audiophiles.
The vehicle scores well on practicality, with a boot capacity of 574 litres. For a family SUV, this cargo space is ample for most needs.
Safety Features
Safety is an acclaimed priority for BYD, and the Song Plus is no exception. The car’s high-rigidity structure, reinforced with 62% high-strength steel, provides solid protection. It also includes six airbags, ABS, and a front parking assist system. These features ensure that both the driver and passengers can feel secure during daily commutes and long journeys alike.
Dimensions and Aesthetics
The BYD Song Plus PHEV has an elegant yet bold design. This mid-size crossover SUV is designed to appeal to drivers who appreciate aesthetics as much as performance. Its sleek, fluid lines and pronounced curves draw comparisons to premium brands like Lexus.
Measuring 4,775mm in length, 1,890mm in width, and 1,680mm in height, the Song Plus has a sizeable presence on the road. Its larger-than-average dimensions give it a commanding stance while maintaining a sophisticated look. The wide body and elongated shape hint at ample cabin space. The car is not overtly sporty, but its design still manages to exude an understated elegance that many buyers will find appealing.
The interior's standout feature is the large infotainment display: 12.8 inches in the FWD model, while the AWD variant boasts a more expansive 15.6-inch screen. The screen has a unique 90-degree rotation feature, allowing users to switch between portrait and landscape modes easily.
Passengers in the rear seats will appreciate the ample legroom, making it a comfortable space for long drives, even for three adults. The panoramic sunroof contributes to the cabin’s airy ambience, while the driver enjoys a 12.3-inch LCD instrument cluster that provides crisp, high-definition graphics. In terms of overall interior quality, the Song Plus delivers a sense of "quiet luxury," where simplicity meets refinement.
Pricing and Warranty
Priced competitively at AED 118,900, the BYD Song Plus offers great value for money in the hybrid SUV segment. It also comes with an eight-year/150,000 km battery warranty and a six-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty, which should alleviate concerns about long-term reliability, a common issue for emerging car brands.
Conclusion
The BYD Song Plus PHEV FWD 2024 stands out as a well-rounded hybrid SUV offering a balanced combination of style, space, and tech features. While it may not be the sportiest vehicle on the market, its comfort, practicality, and efficiency make it a solid choice for families or anyone looking for a capable hybrid. For those who want the flexibility of a plug-in hybrid without fully committing to an EV, the BYD Song Plus represents excellent value, especially given its competitive pricing and extensive warranty. Ultimately, if you're in the market for an affordable yet stylish hybrid SUV, the BYD Song Plus is worth considering.
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