BYD Song L DM-i Leads Again: From 2025 Hybrid Benchmark To 2026 Facelift Breakthrough

Introduction

In 2025, the BYD Song L DM-i became one of the most discussed plug-in hybrid SUVs in China and abroad. With its 160 km pure-electric range, BYD’s Blade Battery, and the fifth-generation DM-i hybrid system, it set a new benchmark for hybrid efficiency and export readiness.

With BYD’s October 23, 2025 debut of the 2026 Song L DM-i facelift, the model reaches a new milestone — proving that BYD continues to innovate while staying ahead of market demand.

This article reviews the original 2025 model, the updates announced in October 2025, and why the Song L DM-i remains a global hybrid leader.

The 2025 Launch Event: Setting a Benchmark

The Song L DM-i was first unveiled on July 25, 2024, in Henan Province, China, alongside the Song Plus DM-i. This event introduced the DM-i 5.0 Super Hybrid System, achieving new standards in thermal efficiency and EV range.

• Price range: RMB 135,800–175,800

• EV range: up to 160 km (CLTC)

• Total range: 1,200 km+

• Market goal: combine high efficiency, safety, and export readiness.

  
  

Hot Update – October 23, 2025: The 2026 Facelift Launch

At BYD’s Shenzhen press conference on October 23, 2025, the company unveiled the 2026 Song L DM-i and Song Pro DM-i, calling it a mid-cycle upgrade rather than a full redesign.

Highlights of the 2026 Facelift

• Extended EV Range: now up to 200 km (CLTC)

• ⛽ Improved Fuel Efficiency: as low as 3.4 L/100 km

• New Design Details: semi-hidden door handles, “Official Gray” & “Galaxy Beige” colors

• Added Smart Systems: “YunNian-C” adaptive damping + “TBC High-Speed Blowout Control”

• Comfort & Safety Upgrades: quieter cabin, enhanced insulation, suspension refinement

• Positioning: global-ready facelift aimed at hybrid-leading markets

2025 vs 2026 Model Comparison Table

Summary:
The 2026 Song L DM-i refines everything that made the 2025 model great — longer EV range, higher efficiency, richer comfort, and export-grade updates. It’s not a reinvention, but an optimization for global markets ready to adopt high-value hybrid SUVs.

2025 BYD Song L DM-i

2026 BYD Song L DM-i

Powertrain, Design & Technology

Comprehensive Overview – 2025 Model

When the BYD Song L DM-i made its debut, it was presented as the most balanced PHEV SUV in its segment — blending long-range hybrid performance, futuristic styling, and luxury-grade interior quality. The 2025 model is underpinned by BYD’s latest DM-i Super Hybrid System, combining a 1.5-liter high-efficiency gasoline engine, a permanent-magnet synchronous motor, and an E-CVT transmission.

Powertrain and Performance

The hybrid system is engineered for intelligent energy management. In urban driving, it prioritizes electric propulsion, switching seamlessly to hybrid mode for highway efficiency.

• Combined Output: around 160 kW

• EV-only Range: up to 160 km (CLTC)

• Full Driving Range: over 1,200 km with hybrid assist

• Fuel Consumption: as low as 3.8–3.9 L/100 km

• Acceleration: 0–100 km/h in about 7.9 s

At the core lies BYD’s signature Blade Battery (LFP) — globally recognized for exceptional safety, thermal stability, and long life cycle. The innovative cell-to-pack layout increases energy density while lowering the vehicle’s center of gravity, improving handling and interior space. Battery safety was a key highlight at the original launch event, where BYD demonstrated its resilience to puncture and fire tests.

Exterior Design – Dynamic and Sophisticated

The Song L DM-i embodies BYD’s “Dragon Face 3.0” design philosophy — a fusion of oriental elegance and modern sportiness.

• Front Fascia: A wide, sculpted grille with chrome detailing flows seamlessly into narrow LED headlights, evoking the look of a dragon’s eyes.

• Side Profile: Strong character lines and a floating roof design give the SUV a sleek silhouette. Hidden door handles reduce drag and enhance aerodynamic efficiency.

• Rear Styling: A continuous LED light bar spans the tailgate, paired with an integrated spoiler for a premium, athletic finish.

• Body Proportions: Length 4,785 mm × Width 1,890 mm × Height 1,660 mm with a wheelbase of 2,760 mm — offering commanding presence and interior spaciousness.

Every contour serves a purpose: aerodynamic optimization reduces wind resistance, improving both energy efficiency and cabin quietness at high speed.

Interior Craftsmanship & Intelligent Cabin

Inside, the Song L DM-i delivers a cabin that feels refined and high-tech, comparable to premium European SUVs.

• Display & Controls: A 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen dominates the dashboard, powered by the DiLink V3 infotainment system with OTA updates, voice assistant, and multi-language interface.

• Digital Cluster: A fully digital 8.8-inch driver display provides real-time hybrid energy flow, navigation, and safety alerts.

• Materials & Design: Nappa leather upholstery, soft-touch surfaces, brushed aluminum accents, and customizable ambient lighting create a sophisticated atmosphere.

• Seating & Comfort: Electrically adjustable front seats with memory and ventilation, dual-zone climate control, and rear A/C vents ensure all-round comfort.

• Storage & Practicality: Split-folding rear seats and a generous cargo volume make it family-friendly and fleet-ready alike.

The cabin acoustics are tuned for quietness — multi-layer glass and additional insulation deliver a near-luxury driving experience.

Smart & Safety Technologies

BYD’s commitment to safety and intelligence is evident across the entire model.

• Driver Assistance: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), and Blind Spot Detection.

• Visibility: 360° Panoramic Camera and Transparent Chassis View assist in urban and off-road maneuvering.

• Chassis Control: Electric Power Steering (EPS) and regenerative braking enhance precision and energy recovery.

• Battery & Structure Safety: Blade Battery + high-strength steel cage body design, meeting global crash standards (C-NCAP / E-NCAP equivalent).

Together, these elements make the Song L DM-i both safe and intelligent — a versatile SUV ready for global roads.

Enhancements in the 2026 Facelift

At the October 23, 2025 event, BYD unveiled the 2026 Song L DM-i, refining every aspect of this already-strong platform:

• Powertrain: Optimized E-CVT calibration and hybrid control logic improve efficiency and torque response.

• EV Range: Increased from 160 km to 200 km (CLTC), thanks to battery management and motor tuning.

• Fuel Efficiency: Reduced to ≈ 3.4 L/100 km.

• Exterior: New semi-hidden handles, two additional body colors (Official Gray, Galaxy Beige), and updated taillight signature.

• Ride & Handling: Integration of YunNian-C Intelligent Damping and TBC Blowout Stability Control systems.

• Interior: New steering and gear-selector design, improved sound insulation, and expanded soft-touch zones.

These updates ensure the Song L DM-i remains at the top of the PHEV class for 2026 — combining proven reliability with refined sophistication and export-ready specifications.

Export Readiness & Global Positioning

Through CJ Vehicle, we deliver export-ready models with:

• Full export documents & customs support

• Shipping options (RORO, container, bulk)

• Pre-shipment inspection & after-sales service

• Parts supply and market-specific compliance

Target regions: Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America.

Why Choose Us

• ✅ Direct Factory Sourcing – Authentic and verified units

• Comprehensive Export Support – Documentation, shipping, after-sales

• Global Experience – Established logistics and market know-how

• Trusted Partnership – Transparency and timely response

Learn more → BYD Song L DM-i Product Page

Conclusion

From its 2025 debut to the 2026 facelift, the BYD Song L DM-i evolves into a stronger, smarter SUV for the world. It offers remarkable EV range, low fuel consumption, and cutting-edge hybrid technology — the ideal choice for export markets seeking reliable electrified mobility.

Delivering Reliable Hybrid Vehicles from China to the World — CJ Vehicle Export Specialist
www.cj-vehicle.com