As a leading brand in China's new energy market, BYD's products are known for becoming instant hits as soon as they are released.
In addition to the recently launched Ocean series, BYD's Dynasty series, which has witnessed the brand's growth, is also expanding its lineup. For example, the Song family welcomed a new member last year, the Song L. Since its launch, the Song L has maintained high popularity. According to BYD's official data, the Song family achieved sales of 28.328 units in July 2024. with the Song L series making a significant contribution.
Now, with the gradual integration of the fifth-generation DM technology, BYD's products are undergoing a new wave of upgrades. The Song L DM-i, being the first mid-size SUV equipped with the fifth-generation DM technology, has further boosted the Song family's popularity, with sales surpassing 10.000 units in the first week of its launch. Today, during the Song L DM-i's in-depth exploration camp in the Shanxi region, we had the opportunity to experience this "industry sensation" through a test drive.
Empowered by Fifth-Generation DM Technology: Low Fuel Consumption and Long Range
In an era where "popularity is king," many high-demand products owe their success to the personal charisma of certain leaders or innovative ideas applied to mass-produced vehicles. However, BYD's "popularity" comes from a more straightforward source—positive word-of-mouth built over time thanks to excellent product experiences powered by advanced technology.
To discuss the Song L DM-i, we must first understand the fifth-generation DM technology.
Firstly, the "fast, efficient, quiet, smooth, and green" characteristics that have been consistent across BYD's generations of DM technology have been optimized and enhanced in the fifth generation. Building on this foundation, the fifth-generation DM technology is the first in the industry to achieve a seven-in-one power domain controller for plug-in hybrids, significantly increasing power density while optimizing the efficiency and performance of the power system.
Among the standout features of the fifth-generation DM technology is the Xiaoyun 1.5L high-efficiency engine, designed specifically for plug-in hybrids, with a thermal efficiency of 46.06%. This engine delivers a maximum power of 74kW and a peak torque of 126N·m, further optimizing the vehicle's fuel economy. Under NEDC conditions, the Song L DM-i has a fuel consumption as low as 3.9L/100km when the battery is depleted, which is an excellent level for a mid-size SUV. Some industry insiders have even tested the Song L DM-i to achieve fuel consumption figures well below the official data.
Additionally, as a hybrid vehicle, range anxiety is not a concern.
The Song L DM-i offers three pure electric range options (CLTC conditions): 75km, 112km, and 160km. According to official data, its combined range on a full tank and a full charge can exceed 1.500km, with some testers achieving over 2.000km.
Test Drive Reveals True Capabilities: Stable and Effortless Control
In this test drive, we focused on experiencing the performance and handling of the Song L DM-i. To give us a more comprehensive understanding of its driving dynamics in a short period, several test items were set up at the event. These tests mainly evaluated its acceleration performance, stability, steering, and braking.
Let's start with the acceleration experience. The Song L DM-i is equipped with an electric motor that delivers a maximum power of 160kW and a peak torque of 260N·m, with an official 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 7.7 seconds.
Once seated and adjusted, we were ready to go. With a firm press on the accelerator, the powerful surge of energy came like a tidal wave, pinning our backs against the seat. The engine's roar was faint but perceptible, and in just a moment, we were nearing the finish line. A quick press on the brake brought the car to a smooth and linear stop, leaving the driver with a sense of effortless control.
The Song L DM-i features a front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link independent suspension. The chassis tuning reflects BYD's characteristic style—pursuing comfort while maintaining a certain degree of rigidity and stability. The vehicle remains stable through corners, with precise steering. In everyday scenarios, such as navigating high-curvature bends, passengers inside the car won't experience significant centrifugal forces. The chassis's vibration-damping capabilities are also impressive, providing a sense of security.
Exceptional Space and Appealing Features
As a mid-size SUV, the Song L DM-i offers excellent space.
For many people, small cars are often a compromise out of necessity. When conditions allow, most would prefer a mid-size or larger vehicle, especially since Chinese consumers are known for their preference for spacious interiors.
The Song L DM-i measures 4780mm in length, 1898mm in width, and 1670mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2782mm. The short rear overhang design maximizes interior space. Sitting in the driver's seat with an adjusted posture, there's still 1-2 fist-widths of space above the head. The rear seat also offers ample headroom, and with a standard seating position, there's 2-3 fist-widths of knee room between the rear seat and the front seat. The seats provide good support and wrapping, making them comfortable even for long periods of sitting.
In terms of storage space, the Song L DM-i features 31 humanized storage compartments inside the vehicle, making it convenient for users to store items like phones, bags, keys, water bottles, and tissues. The trunk offers 459 liters of storage in its default state, and with the rear seats folded down, this expands to a massive 1.550 liters, making it versatile for camping, fishing, outdoor barbecues, or moving houses.
In terms of experience, the Song L DM-i also offers a range of appealing features.
The front seats are equipped with heating and ventilation functions to help drivers and passengers quickly adjust to the ideal temperature in summer and winter. The Infinity 10-speaker system and 31-color ambient lighting provide a more refined sensory experience.
In addition, the Song L DM-i is equipped with a 15.6-inch adaptive rotating floating pad, a 10.25-inch full LCD instrument cluster, and a 26-inch W-HUD. These displays work together seamlessly, presenting all driving information clearly. The vehicle also features an all-scenario intelligent voice system that supports multi-round conversations and four-zone recognition, allowing for convenient operation of most functions by simply speaking.
In Conclusion:
As the first mid-size SUV equipped with the fifth-generation DM technology, the Song L DM-i is renowned for its excellent fuel efficiency and range. However, after experiencing it firsthand, it's clear that this vehicle's strengths go beyond just fuel consumption and range. It also offers outstanding dynamic performance and ample, comfortable space. It's safe to say that the emergence of any popular model is not by chance, and the Song L DM-i is a "treasure" vehicle that reveals more advantages the deeper you explore it.
