BYD Xia breaks cover, a cheaper alternative to Denza D9?

In addition to the Denza D9 and M6, BYD now has another offering that looks capable of shaking things up in the MPV segment.

Known as the BYD Xia, it comes as the flagship model in the automaker’s Dynasty series. It is reportedly named after the oldest dynasty in Chinese history, which began ruling in 2070 BC.

Measuring 5,145 mm in length, 1,970 mm in width, and 1,805 mm in height, the Xia is 105 mm shorter, 10 mm wider, and 115 mm lower than the D9. Its wheelbase is 3,045 mm, which is 65 mm shorter than that of the D9.

Without the influence of Mercedes-Benz as seen on the D9, the exterior design of the Xia is evidently not as opulent. This makes sense, as BYD targets the mass market, while Denza is BYD’s very own sub-brand specialising in luxury vehicles.

Nevertheless, the Xia is still visually appealing thanks to the trademark ‘Dragon Face’ design element and a large grille at the front, along with a vertical tail light that runs across the back.

The interior has yet to be revealed, but according to CarNewsChina, the Xia will offer seven seats in a 2+2+3 configuration, alongside features such as a large touchscreen and a flat-bottom steering wheel.

The Xia is equipped with a fifth-generation DM-i plug-in hybrid powertrain, which reportedly combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine with 200 hp and an electric motor with 268 hp.

The powertrain is said to offer an electric driving range of up to 200 km, suggesting it may be equipped with a high-capacity Blade battery.

Additionally, the Xia utilises an adjustable suspension system with an electromagnetic DiSus-C system, similar to that used in the Tang and Han models. Other bells and whistles include the DiPilot ADAS and the DiLink 150 cockpit system.

The Xia is set to enter the Chinese market this year, with a starting price of 300,000 yuan (RM182,756). This makes it more affordable than the D9, which is priced between 339,800 yuan and 469,800 yuan (RM207,010–RM286,210).