The BYD Xia is a plug-in hybrid minivan designed as a spacious, family-oriented MPV. Between January and May, it achieved 14,962 deliveries in China, with a starting price of ¥249,800 (approx. $34,750) before subsidies. To expand its market reach, BYD is rebranding the Xia as the BYD M9 for global markets.
The company has already exported 500 units, signaling its readiness for international rollout. The model will make its global debut in Mexico on June 25, accompanied by a live-streamed launch event hosted by BYD Mexico.
Design: Understated Practicality
The Xia adopts BYD’s “Loong Face” (Dragon Face) design language, featuring a bold front grille flanked by sleek, angular headlamps. A horizontal chrome strip bridges the lights, emphasizing the vehicle’s width. The side profile is clean and functional, with sliding rear doors and 19-inch wheels catering to the segment’s demands. At the rear, a full-width LED taillight bar and subtle roof spoiler reinforce its utilitarian yet modern aesthetic.
Dimensions
Length: 5,145 mm
Width: 1,970 mm
Height: 1,805 mm
Wheelbase: 3,045 mm
These proportions place it squarely in the large MPV category, comparable in size to the Toyota Alphard.
Interior: Comfort and Tech for Families
The cabin follows a 2+2+3 seating layout, prioritizing second-row comfort with captain’s chairs featuring ventilation, heating, leg rests, and tray tables. These seats offer extensive manual adjustments and can fully recline for long-distance relaxation. The third-row bench comfortably accommodates adults for shorter trips, thanks to the generous wheelbase and high roofline.
Dashboard & Infotainment
15.6-inch rotating touchscreen (central display)
Dual 12.3-inch digital panels (driver and front passenger)
BYD DiLink infotainment with navigation, media, and third-party apps
Roof-mounted rear-seat entertainment display
Additional amenities include a cooled/heated storage compartment, ambient lighting, and multiple USB ports. Materials are well-finished, with soft-touch surfaces and synthetic leather upholstery, aligning with BYD’s upper-tier offerings.
Powertrain: Efficient Plug-In Hybrid Performance
The Xia is equipped with BYD’s fifth-generation DM 5.0 plug-in hybrid system, combining a 1.5L turbocharged engine (115 kW) with a 200 kW electric motor. Two battery options are available:
| Battery Size | EV-Only Range (CLTC) |
|---|---|
| 20.4 kWh | 100 km |
| 36.6 kWh | 180 km |
(Our test model featured the larger battery.)
Driving Experience
Smooth acceleration (0–100 km/h in 8.1 seconds)
Seamless transition between EV and hybrid modes
Urban driving is predominantly electric, delivering a quiet, refined ride
Fuel efficiency: ~6.2 L/100 km (mixed driving), close to BYD’s NEDC claim of 5.9 L/100 km
DC fast charging (30%–80% in 18 minutes)
Ride & Handling: Comfort Over Sportiness
The soft-tuned suspension prioritizes ride comfort, effectively absorbing road imperfections for relaxed long-distance travel. Steering is light but lacks feedback, and body roll is noticeable in corners—though the vehicle remains stable.
Regenerative braking is subtle and non-adjustable, with no strong one-pedal driving mode. However, energy recovery is smooth during deceleration.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Standard L2+ ADAS features include:
Adaptive cruise control
Lane centering
Blind-spot monitoring
Automatic emergency braking
The systems performed reliably, though lane-keeping assistance was cautious on sharper curves.
Verdict: A Strong Mass-Market Contender
The BYD Xia (M9) doesn’t aim to be a luxury MPV or a sporty hybrid—instead, it excels as a practical, well-equipped family vehicle with spacious seating, advanced tech, and plug-in efficiency. Its comfortable ride, smooth powertrain, and thoughtful features make it a compelling choice in the mass-market MPV segment.
With its impending Mexico launch, the M9 is set to introduce BYD’s blend of practicality and electrification to global buyers. While it may not rival premium models in refinement, it stands out as a value-driven, modern alternative for families.
For those prioritizing space, comfort, and low running costs, the BYD Xia/M9 delivers a well-rounded package—now with ambitions far beyond China.
