BYD suddenly brought a new model of the Dynasty series in Chengdu this year – BYD Xia, which is also the second Dynasty MPV after Song MAX. Compared with the sedans and SUVs brought to the market in the past, the “Xia” named after the first dynasty in Chinese history does have a natural kingly ambition, which makes us sweat for Buick GL8. But can this “sweat” really affect the pattern of the MPV market?
The design of BYD Xia reminds us of its “close relative” Tengzhong D9. The open air intake grille makes us feel the so-called domineering of the front of the car. It is not only luxurious, but also has a sense of sportiness in the vertical triangular air intake just below the matrix-shaped headlights. The side lines are simple and three-dimensional, and the seamless treatment is visually very capable. The key is that the straight style of the vehicle can provide all-round protection in terms of passenger and storage space, which is the most important thing for MPVs.
From the rear, the through-type taillights adopt some Chinese knot elements. The light strips that cross up and down look precise and simple. In addition, after weakening the frame of the rear windshield, the decorative metal on the D-pillar avoids the vehicle from being too youthful, thus ensuring the vehicle’s compatibility with high-end business.
According to the confirmed data, BYD Xia’s length, width and height are 5145/1970/1805mm. Although this set of data cannot lead the Buick GL8 PHEV in all aspects, its width advantage can still help it make up for the loss. The wheelbase of 3045mm is only 43mm shorter, which will not have a big impact on MPV. In addition, BYD Xia has a shorter front and a more three-dimensional D-pillar structure, so its space capacity will definitely remain at a high standard.
The interior design of the vehicle has not been exposed yet, but it can be confirmed that the vehicle will provide some convenient designs such as hidden floor rails in terms of seats, and the vehicle will also be equipped with DiLink 150 intelligent cockpit supported by high-tech chips, which will be more intelligent and smooth in interaction, and will also make comprehensive user and driving more convenient and interesting. Speaking of driving, the DiPilot intelligent driving assistance system will also be added to the vehicle, but we don’t know what its specific version will be. Combining the product positioning of the D9 DM-i and BYD Xia, it may be more inclined to provide basic assistance and enhance comprehensive driving and vehicle safety.
In terms of power, BYD Xia has previously exposed some key information through the declaration catalog, such as the vehicle will be confirmed to be equipped with a 1.5T dedicated engine and the efficiency-oriented fifth-generation DM-i technology. Among them, the 38kWh battery pack can bring the vehicle a CLTC pure electric range of 145km, and the vehicle’s fuel consumption per 100 kilometers remains at 6.50L/100km. The WLTC fuel consumption given by Buick GL8 PHEV is 6.97L/100km.
In terms of chassis, BYD Xia is expected to still use a front McPherson + rear multi-link independent suspension combination, and the tuning will be closer to the Denza D9DM-i. However, the plug-in hybrid exclusive body structure will be optimized in terms of comprehensive control, and it will also be supported by the Yunnian-C intelligent damping body control system, making further progress in terms of comprehensive control stability and comfort.
In 2017, BYD launched the Song MAX, which not only laid the market and user base for the Dynasty series, but also became the biggest hit of the “MPV craze” at that time. Now, BYD Xia has successfully joined this round of high-end new energy MPV craze. After the Denza D9 has taken the lead and successfully won the championship from Buick GL8, can BYD Xia form a twin star and become the new champion of MPV?
