As time progresses, more promotional videos, real-life photos, and range information of the BYD Song L DM-i have been frequently exposed online, suggesting that the official release of the new model is imminent, likely in August. Thanks to BYD's brand influence and the fact that the Song L DM-i will be equipped with the fifth-generation DM-i hybrid system, the new car has garnered significant attention.
Based on the latest information, the Song L DM-i will offer four variants: 112 km Leading, 112 km Surpassing, 160 km Surpassing, and 160 km Excellence. It will come in four exterior color options: Ice Boreal Blue, Fa Green Blue, Run Jade White, and Tea Crystal Grey, as well as the Golden Sand Taupe interior color. However, the final specifications will need to be confirmed by official announcements.
In terms of exterior design, the Song L DM-i adopts the latest design language of the Dynasty series, similar to the already released Qin L DM-i. The front end features a large hexagonal grille, with chrome accents filling the interior in a segmented pattern. Slanted air intakes on both sides add a sporty touch. A thick black trim piece runs across the top of the grille, accented with chrome, and connects with the slender daytime running lights on both sides, creating a sharp yet sophisticated visual effect.
The side profile is relatively simple, with a two-part waistline and hidden door handles. A silver trim piece is added to the D-pillar for a decorative effect, and rear privacy glass is also visible. Depending on the variant, it offers dual five-spoke, five-petal, and two-tone low-drag wheels in 18-inch or 19-inch sizes.
The rear design is quite full-bodied, with a through-type tail light accentuated by silver trims. The light bar features a unique “Chinese knot” pattern at both ends, ensuring a distinctive appearance when illuminated. The entire tail light cavity is also blacked out. Above the rear window, there is a dual-section spoiler shared with the Song L EV, while the lower part of the rear bumper is decorated with silver trim, giving it a sporty overall look.
Regarding size, the Song L DM-i measures 4780/1898/1670 mm in length, width, and height, with a wheelbase of 2782 mm. For comparison, the Song Pro DM-i measures 4738/1860/1710 mm, with a wheelbase of 2712 mm.
Inside, spy shots reveal that the Song L DM-i’s design closely resembles that of the Qin L DM-i. It continues to feature a floating central control screen, likely 15.6 inches in size, while the fully digital dashboard integrates into the center console for a seamless design. The vehicle sports a four-spoke steering wheel, characteristic of the Dynasty series, likely with a frameless "Song" badge in the center. The shape of the air vents has been slightly tweaked. The center console adopts a symmetrical layout, with a wireless charging panel for phones at the front, a diamond-cut electronic gear lever in the middle, and several driving function buttons, with two integrated cupholders at the back.
In terms of power, the Song L DM-i will be equipped with the same fifth-generation DM-i hybrid system as the Qin L DM-i. This system continues to center around a 1.5L engine with a maximum output of 74 kW, while the electric motor can generate up to 160 kW. The hybrid system operates on a series-parallel mechanism. Although the engine’s power is slightly reduced, thermal efficiency has increased to 46.06%, with significant improvements to motor efficiency, the specialized lithium iron phosphate "blade" battery, and the dedicated hybrid transmission.
The new model will be available with two battery options: 18.316 kWh and 26.593 kWh, corresponding to pure electric ranges of 112 km and 160 km (under CLTC conditions). The fuel consumption in hybrid mode is 4.95 liters and 4.98 liters per 100 kilometers (under WLTC conditions). Additionally, the Song L DM-i will feature front MacPherson and rear E-type four-link independent suspension, further indicating its higher positioning compared to the Song Pro DM-i.
Since the Song PLUS DM-i has been classified under the Ocean series, the BYD Dynasty series currently only offers the Song Pro DM-i and Tang DM-i plug-in hybrid SUVs. However, there is a significant price gap between these two models, leaving a market void. The launch of the Song L DM-i will likely fill this gap, and the pricing should be close to that of the Song PLUS DM-i. As a reference, the Song PLUS DM-i is priced between 129.800 to 169.800 RMB.
