BYD Launches VW Tiguan-Sized Song Plus SUV In China From Just $17k

China’s biggest EV manufacturer, BYD Auto, also builds vehicles powered by internal combustion engines and the Song Plus midsize SUV is its latest.

Launched at an event in Chengdu last week, the BYD Song Plus brings “new design, extreme power, and unmatched comfort”. According to BYD, the new SUV features four premieres: the world’s first mass-produced gradient interior, the first smart interaction digital panel for passengers, the first with one-piece ‘floating’ headrest seats, and the first to be powered by BYD’s brand new 1.5TI engine.

The Song Plus is 4,705 mm (185.2 in) long, 1,890 mm (74.4 in) wide, 1,680 mm (66.1 in) high and has a wheelbase of 2,765 mm (108.8 in). This makes it the widest SUV in its class, with the main benefit of that being a comfortable driving experience.

From a styling standpoint, the design team behind the Song Plus gave it a so-called Dragon Soul aesthetic that combines “the sleek elegance of sedans with the powerful dynamism of SUVs.” The massive front grille incorporates ancient Chinese armor elements for a matrix armored shape, with highlights also including the ultra-wide one-piece hood, creased waistline, and 1,011 mm (39.8 in) long Skyline LED high-beam brake lights.

Inside, the BYD Song Plus adopts a ‘floating’ design concept, a gradient interior trim that transitions between brown and black, as well as high-grade suede and other materials. The carmaker says the cabin is spacious and features second-row seats “akin to business-class seats” with an optimal 28-degree backrest angle. The cargo volume is 574 liters (20.2 cu ft) with all seats in place or 1,477 liters (52.1 cu ft) with the rear seats folded down.

Power comes from the company’s brand new 1.5TI turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine delivering 182 HP (136 kW / 185 PS ) and 288 Nm (212 lb-ft) of torque. Power and torque are up by 20 percent over the previous engine, while fuel consumption has dropped by 15 percent, partly due to the new 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission.

When it comes to technology, the Song Plus offers the DiLink 3.0 intelligent network connection system with over-the-air remote upgrade function, an NFC key function for mobile phones to unlock the vehicle and remote-control function integrated into the mobile phone app to move the Song Plus in narrow spaces.

Finally, BYD’s new SUV features the DiPilot intelligent driver assist system with over 20 functions, including adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning system, 360-degree panoramic imaging system, and a holographic imaging system providing insight into the underbody of the car.

Prices in China range from RMB115,800 ($17,110) to RMB143,800 ($21,250).