The highly anticipated BYD Xia plug-in hybrid minivan has made its early debut, arriving at dealerships across China ahead of its official market launch slated for January 8th. This eagerly awaited model will be officially unveiled at the iconic Beijing National Aquatic Centre, more commonly known as the Water Cube, marking a significant moment in BYD's product roadmap.
The Xia minivan closely resembles the pre-production model showcased at the Guangzhou Auto Show 2024, boasting a striking exterior design. A prominent grille dominates the front fascia, seamlessly integrating with the sleek headlights and incorporating the signature "Dragon Whisker" chrome-plated element, a hallmark of BYD's Dynasty series, adorned with the "Xia" inscription. The 18-inch wheels, wrapped in Michelin e-Primacy tires, contribute to the vehicle's dynamic stance, further enhanced by a stylish sunroof, rear sliding doors, and a distinctive single LED taillight unit. A subtle roof spoiler adds a touch of sportiness to the overall silhouette, while tinted rear windows complete the refined exterior look.
The Xia minivan commands a substantial presence with its generous dimensions, measuring 5145 mm in length, 1970 mm in width, and 1805 mm in height, supported by a robust 3045 mm wheelbase.
Stepping inside, the Xia's interior showcases a familiar yet refined design language, echoing the aesthetic found in other BYD models. The three-spoke steering wheel and the large 15.6-inch floating touchscreen provide a familiar touch, complemented by a 12.3-inch LCD instrument cluster. However, the Xia introduces a unique feature: the gear shifter is ingeniously positioned behind the steering wheel. This innovative placement frees up valuable space on the center console, enhancing both aesthetics and practicality. Furthermore, a 12.3-inch touchscreen is thoughtfully integrated for the front passenger, elevating the overall in-car experience.
The interior exudes an air of sophistication with a tasteful brown-beige color scheme. The second row offers a luxurious experience with two independent captain's chairs, thoughtfully equipped with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. Enhancing the comfort and convenience further are a cooling and heated storage box, folding tables, and a ceiling-mounted monitor for entertainment on the go. The third row accommodates three passengers and boasts the convenience of electronically folding seats, creating a flat floor for added versatility.
Powering the Xia minivan is a robust hybrid system comprising a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine delivering 154 horsepower, seamlessly integrated with a potent 200 kW (268 hp) electric motor. To cater to diverse driving needs, two battery options are available: a 20.4 kWh battery for a 100 km electric range and a larger 36.6 kWh battery for an extended 180 km electric range.
While the Xia minivans have begun arriving at dealerships, it's crucial to note that these are for display purposes only and are not yet available for purchase. Interestingly, these display models showcase a pristine white exterior paired with a luxurious brown-beige interior, deviating from the press-release-featured dark purple exterior color. This strategic decision likely aims to showcase the vehicle's versatility and appeal to a wider audience.
Following a successful pre-order phase that commenced in September last year, with an initial starting price of 289,000 yuan (39,600 USD), the Xia minivan is poised to officially enter the market with a competitive price range of 280,000 to 320,000 yuan (approximately $38,400 to $43,800). This strategic pricing positions the Xia minivan as a compelling option in the burgeoning plug-in hybrid minivan segment.
This early arrival at dealerships signifies a significant step towards the Xia minivan's official market launch, generating considerable excitement and anticipation among potential buyers. With its impressive blend of style, technology, and practicality, the Xia minivan is poised to make a strong impact in the Chinese market.