BYD Tang DM-i

Inside, the BYD Tang DM-i comes with a premium cabin finished in a black and grey leather trim. Upfront, you are greeted by a dashboard with a beautiful wave-like motif. At the center is a 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment display that is equipped with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, USB, 4G connectivity, an OTA updating feature, a BYD Cloud Service, and a voice assistant. 

This infotainment display is linked to a 12-speaker Dynaudio sound system. One of this SUV’s downsides, however, is the noticeable lack of physical buttons or switches on its dashboard, which might be an inconvenience for lesser tech-savvy drivers and passengers.

Meanwhile, drivers are treated to a high-tech cockpit that consists of a 12.3-inch LCD instrument cluster, a multicontrol electronic power steering wheel wrapped in leather, and a gear lever, which looks very modern. For enhanced passenger convenience, this SUV also comes with a wireless charger, four USB charging ports (front: 2, rear: 2), front and rear 12V power sockets, as well as multiple bottle and cup holders.

In terms of practicality, you have plenty of room both in the first and second rows. However, its third row is more ideal for children and smaller passengers in general. To compensate for its cramped third row, this SUV comes with a trunk that offers 940-L of space (third row seats are folded). This SUV also comes with a panoramic sunroof.

From the outside, the BYD Tang DM-i’s design strikes a balance between ruggedness and sportiness. Its facade resembles a dragon and is further enhanced by an imposing black grille as well as fierce-looking LED headlamps with DRLs. 

Meanwhile, sleek character lines and blacked-out finishes define its side profile, which looks elegant and sporty at the same time. This SUV’s side mirrors come with integrated puddle lamps for increased visibility, especially at night. The Tang DM-i runs on a set of 20-inch wheels. 

Furthermore, its back end, which is illuminated by a hypermodern LED tail light bar along with an LED high-mount brake lamp, has a European-like vibe attached to it. This SUV comes with a power tailgate for more convenient loading and unloading of cargo. 

In terms of dimensions, the BYD Tang DM-i measures 4,870 mm in length, 1,950 mm in width, and 1,725 mm in height. This plug-in hybrid SUV comes with a 2,820-mm wheelbase and a 182-mm unladen ground clearance. Overall, the Tang DM-i looks like a more aggressive and sportier version of the Tang EV.

In terms of suspension, the BYD Tang DM-i comes with a MacPherson Strut at the front and a Multi-Link at the rear. Thanks to this setup, you’ll be able to enjoy its light and responsive steering. For an SUV its size, the Tang DM-i is agile to maneuver in the city and can confidently hit turns or corners with very minimal body roll. Ultimately, this SUV can deliver a smooth and supple riding experience for everyone on board.

The Tang DM-i runs on BYD’s Super DM-i technology that combines a single permanent magnet synchronous motor, which produces a maximum power output of 271 PS and a maximum torque of 315 Nm, with a 1.5L turbo high efficiency engine, which primarily acts as a range extender. Its electric motor is powered by a 21.5-kWh BYD Blade battery pack that offers a 110-km NEDC driving range. Combining both the battery pack and the fuel from the engine’s tank will give you an impressive 1,160-km extended range. This SUV utilizes a front-wheel drivetrain.

That said, its hybrid powertrain offers a smooth, linear power delivery. On the highway, the Tang DM-i delivers a nice, lively punch, allowing you to effectively overtake slower vehicles. In addition, this plug-in hybrid SUV can deliver an emotional cruising experience at higher speeds (unlike its full-EV version) courtesy of its revvy engine. Meanwhile, in the city, it remains impressively efficient even when you are driving under mixed conditions. This plug-in hybrid SUV offers three drive modes: Normal, Economy, and Sport.

In terms of safety, the Tang DM-i is equipped with BYD’s DiPilot (ADAS), which includes a 360-degree-view camera system with see-through mode, eight sensors (front: 4, rear: 4), adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking system, front and rear collision warning, rear cross traffic alert and brake, lane departure assistance, intelligent high beam, blind spot monitoring, and door open warning.

This SUV utilizes ventilated discs for front braking, while solid discs for the rear. Its braking setup is also supported by an anti-lock braking system, electronic stability control, traction control system, brake override system, and hill hold control among others.

The BYD Tang DM-i is a very compelling option for family men or women looking for a versatile 7-seater plug-in hybrid SUV. It is competitively-priced for its size (and powertrain), a practical and efficient daily driver in the city, and a very respectable tourer on the weekend.