The BYD SONG PLUS is one of the China’s fastest-selling SUV, surpassing one million sales in record time. With monthly sales exceeding 56,000 units, it even outpaced the Tesla Model Y. Now available in the Middle East, the SONG PLUS starts at AED 119,900, offering advanced hybrid technology at a competitive price.
This article provides an in-depth review of the SONG PLUS for the Middle East market, focusing on its DM-i plug-in hybrid system. We also summarize feedback from hundreds of thousands of owners to give you a genuine, real-world perspective on this SUV.
BYD SONG PLUS Forum in Cartea：
https://www.icartea.com/en/forum/song-plus
2025 BYD SONG PLUS Trims & Prices in UAE
• BYD SONG PLUS DESIGN (FWD): AED 119,900
• BYD SONG PLUS PREMIUM (AWD): AED 144,900
2025 BYD SONG PLUS Dimensions
Although classified as a compact SUV, BYD SONG PLUS is larger than Toyota RAV4 and Hyundai Tucson, offering a more spacious cabin and cargo area.
DM-i Plug-in Hybrid System
Driving Experience: How Does BYD SONG PLUS Perform?
The 2025 SONG PLUS is powered by BYD’s DM-i hybrid system, featuring a 1.5T engine and dual electric motors with a combined 360 hp. This enables a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 6.5 seconds—on par with high-performance Mercedes-Benz GLC and BMW X3 models equipped with 2.0T engines.
Despite having a smaller engine, the SONG PLUS outperforms competitors in acceleration thanks to its high-powered electric motors. At less than half the price of a Mercedes-Benz GLC, the SONG PLUS delivers similar performance.
With its electric-based hybrid system, the SONG PLUS allows for:
• Electric-only driving for short commutes, improving ride quality.
• HEV mode for long trips, eliminating range anxiety.
• 18.3 kWh battery for over 100 km of electric range, ensuring strong acceleration and smooth power delivery.
Is BYD SONG PLUS Cost-Effective?
With a full tank and full charge, the SONG PLUS can travel over 1000 km. So why exactly is the SONG PLUS so fuel efficient?
Electric-Only Driving Reduces Costs
• With a home charging station, the SONG PLUS can operate fully on electricity for short daily commutes
• Lower maintenance costs than gasoline cars due to less engine usage
Hybrid Mode is Also Cost-Effective
Even when the battery is low, the SONG PLUS still maintains exceptionally low fuel consumption.
According to BYD official data, the fuel consumption in low-battery mode is:
• 4.5L/100 km for the FWD version
• 5.2L/100 km for the AWD version
(Actual range depends on driving habits; the combined range is approximate value.)
Chinese media tests showed that at 30°C, the SONG PLUS was driven for 3.3 hours in a low-battery, full-tank state, covering a mix of urban roads and highways at an average speed of 31 km/h. The measured fuel consumption was 4.7L/100 km, closely aligning with official figures.
Clearly, such low fuel consumption is unmatched by conventional gasoline-powered SUVs in the same class.
Special Features of the SONG PLUS
V2L (Vehicle-to-Load)
What is V2L?
The SONG PLUS provides a 3.3 kW discharge power, capable of powering most electrical appliances, which is a feature that traditional gasoline and hybrid vehicles lack.
What Can V2L Do?
V2L can enhance your travel experience. For example, you can bring an electric kettle and an electric grill to boil water, make coffee, grill food outdoors using electricity.
How to Use V2L?
Simply unlock the vehicle, connect the V2L discharge device to the AC charging port, and ensure the battery level is above 15%. Then, you’re ready to power up your devices.
BYD App Remote Control
• Unlock, control the AC, and check battery and vehicle status remotely
• Locate nearby service centers and schedule maintenance
Rotating Touchscreen
• Switch between horizontal and vertical display based on content
How Safe is the SONG PLUS?
AWD with Sand & Mud Mode
Designed for sand and mud terrain, improving driving safety in adverse road conditions.
Battery Thermal Stability
SONG PLUS comes standard with LFP blade battery. It remains stable even at temperatures close to 50°C. Experiments have shown that the blade battery can be kept at 300°C for 30 minutes without catching fire or exploding.
Battery Crash Safety
The battery shell is designed to protect against damage from rough roads.
Even if the battery sustains internal deformation from a collision, it remains stable - no smoke, no fire.
Battery Lifespan
5000+ charge cycles, 8-year/200,000 km warranty
Hybrid System Reliability
The SONG PLUS engine rarely drives the vehicle directly. and operates in an optimized state, making it less prone to malfunctions.
The engine and hybrid system have been simplified, reducing complexity and enhancing reliability.
Owner & Media Reviews
Media Reviews
A: “Smooth acceleration, no turbo lag, and extremely efficient fuel consumption.”
B: “City driving fuel consumption is 4-4.5 L/100 km, while highway driving is around 5 L/100 km, far lower than gasoline SUVs.”
C: “Best balance of price, features, and efficiency.”
Chinese Owner Reviews
Pros
Interior environment is quiet and comfortable during the driving process
Stylish exterior with signature LED headlights
Can complete a 1000 km round trip without refueling or recharging.
Fully charged at home, used for daily commuting on electricity alone.
Cons
Wind noise at speeds over 80 km/h
Mediocre speaker quality, weak bass
BYD SONG PLUS Forum in Cartea：
https://www.icartea.com/en/forum/song-plus
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Service
Where do I service my SONG PLUS?
BYD offers a convenient remote service provision! BYD's expert mobile technicians can come to your place for the purpose of conducting maintenance or repairs on your vehicle. If it is not possible for us to perform remote service, BYD will pick up your vehicle and bring it back once the work is done.
When do I service my SONG PLUS?
For PHEVs the maintenance interval is 10,000km or one year, whichever comes first.
What do I get free when I buy a car?
Mode 2 charging connection device, V2L discharge connection device, wheel spanner, first aid kit, warning triangle, reflective vest, fire extinguisher triangle, Front wiper blades assembly, Jack assembly, Towing hook
Finance
What finance options do you offer?
BYD offers a variety of financing options to fit your individual needs and budget. It is advised to engage with dedicated finance consultants who will explain further about the specific financial options you may consider. These professionals can answer any questions you may have, clarify terms and conditions of each individual alternative, and work towards getting you approved in advance.
Battery
Where do I charge my car?
UAE offers a varied network of charging options for electric vehicles (EVs):
Malls: A majority of major malls in Dubai are equipped with EV charging stations.
Fuel Stations: Several ENOC and ADNOC petrol stations in Dubai provide EV charging facilities.
Home Charging: For maximum convenience, consider installing a dedicated EV charger at your home.
What is the battery lifespan?
The warranty on our batteries lasts for 8 years or 200,000KM. Unlike cellphone batteries, EV batteries are designed to have a longer lifespan and degrade much more slowly; they are engineered to endure thousands of charging cycles while still holding most of their capacity range throughout that warranty period.
How long does the battery last?
The battery can hold the charge for up to six months, but we recommend charging the battery once in a month if the car is not in use to get the maximum life of battery.
Yasir Al-Mansouri have more than 10 years of experience in the automotive journalism world. He is an expert of automotive news articles, features, and reviews on cars, from the latest models to industry trends. He've built strong relationships with car manufacturers and industry experts. Connect with Yasir Al-Mansouri on LinkedIn to stay updated on all things automotive and join our exciting journey in exploring the world of automobiles.
