12W-Class Hybrid SUV: With the rapid development of the Chinese new energy vehicle market, plug-in hybrid and pure electric technologies have reached impressive heights. In this competitive market, Chinese automakers are leading the way, with companies like BYD and Chery standing out. While BYD’s “DM-i Super Hybrid” technology has achieved industry recognition, Chery has also made a mark with its “C-DM” hybrid technology. This article compares two standout models in the 120,000 RMB range: the Exeed LX C-DM and the BYD Song Pro DM-i. These two models will be evaluated based on design, power performance, smart features, and quality.
Exterior Design
Exeed LX C-DM: The Exeed LX C-DM introduces a dynamic and innovative design aesthetic. Its front features a borderless grille with diamond patterns that add a sense of refinement and freshness. The side profile combines strength and elegance, with seamless body lines and a striking waistline that give the SUV a sporty appearance. At the rear, full-width taillights and square dual exhaust pipes emphasize sportiness and refinement. The interior is equally appealing, featuring a Hermes-inspired streamlined design with integrated sport seats, a multi-function steering wheel, and advanced air quality monitoring systems. This balance of luxury and comfort is ideal for young families.
BYD Song Pro DM-i: The Song Pro DM-i follows BYD’s family design language, characterized by a large trapezoidal grille with chrome-plated dotted elements. The side design features a multi-waistline structure, and the roof slopes downward after the B-pillar for a rugged look. Its rear is full and well-rounded, with popular full-width taillights. Inside, the Song Pro DM-i retains a classic design style with a three-spoke steering wheel and a rotatable central control screen. Features such as keyless entry, automatic air conditioning, and an air purifier are standard.
| Feature | Exeed LX C-DM | BYD Song Pro DM-i |
|---|---|---|
| Front Grille | Borderless with diamond patterns | Trapezoidal with chrome elements |
| Side Profile | Seamless body lines and striking waistline | Multi-waistline design |
| Interior Design | Hermes-inspired luxury | Classic BYD design style |
| Taillights | Full-width, sporty | Full-width, rugged |
| Air Quality System | N95-grade antibacterial filter | Air purifier |
Power Performance: The Exeed LX C-DM Stands Out
Performance is crucial in evaluating hybrid SUVs. Both models employ advanced hybrid systems, but the Exeed LX C-DM has an edge in power output and efficiency.
Exeed LX C-DM: The LX C-DM is powered by a 1.5TCI plug-in hybrid engine combined with dual motors, delivering up to 240kW and 545N·m of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7 seconds. The SUV features a cutting-edge 3-powertrain + 3-speed DHT combination, offering 9 driving modes and 3-speed gear shifting, ensuring efficiency and adaptability to different driving scenarios. The Gotion Hi-Tech ternary lithium battery supports 2000 charge cycles, providing low energy consumption and a long lifespan.
BYD Song Pro DM-i: The Song Pro DM-i uses a 1.5L engine paired with lithium iron phosphate batteries, delivering a maximum power of 173kW and a peak torque of 325N·m. Its 0-100 km/h acceleration time is 7.9 seconds. While efficient, its battery has lower energy density compared to ternary lithium batteries, leading to slightly higher energy consumption.
| Specification | Exeed LX C-DM | BYD Song Pro DM-i |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.5TCI + Dual Motors | 1.5L + Single Motor |
| Max Power (kW) | 240 | 173 |
| Max Torque (N·m) | 545 | 325 |
| 0-100 km/h (sec) | 7.0 | 7.9 |
| Battery Type | Ternary Lithium | Lithium Iron Phosphate |
Smart Features: Exeed LX C-DM Takes the Lead
Intelligent connectivity has become a significant selling point for modern SUVs. The Exeed LX C-DM offers a more advanced smart experience compared to the Song Pro DM-i.
Exeed LX C-DM: The LX C-DM is equipped with a 24.6-inch floating curved screen powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip. Its i-Connect@Lion 5.0 system supports popular apps like TikTok and vehicle-mounted KTV. The iFlytek intelligent voice interaction system allows hands-free control of functions like air conditioning and windows, enhancing safety and convenience. Additionally, the mobile app’s remote control feature enables users to pre-cool the car before entering.
BYD Song Pro DM-i: The Song Pro DM-i comes with an 8.8-inch floating LCD instrument panel and a 12.8-inch rotatable screen, powered by the Snapdragon 635 chip. It supports online navigation, entertainment, and vehicle-mounted karaoke, but lacks the advanced integration and smooth performance of the Snapdragon 8155.
| Feature | Exeed LX C-DM | BYD Song Pro DM-i |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 24.6-inch curved | 12.8-inch rotatable |
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8155 | Snapdragon 635 |
| Voice Interaction | iFlytek intelligent system | Standard system |
| App Integration | TikTok, news apps, KTV | Navigation, entertainment |
Quality and Safety
The LX C-DM benefits from Chery’s collaboration with top global suppliers like Bosch, Valeo, and iFlytek. It features aerospace-grade heat-resistant mica board protection for its ternary lithium battery, which has passed rigorous safety tests for fire resistance, thermal diffusion, and impact resistance. Intelligent detection systems prevent battery drain and monitor safety.
The Song Pro DM-i also offers reliable quality, but its lithium iron phosphate battery has a lower energy density, making it less efficient. While it provides standard safety features, it lacks the advanced global quality endorsements of the LX C-DM.
| Quality Feature | Exeed LX C-DM | BYD Song Pro DM-i |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Protection | Aerospace-grade mica board | Standard protection |
| Safety Tests Passed | Fire, impact, thermal diffusion | Standard tests |
| Global Partnerships | Bosch, Valeo, iFlytek | Limited |
Conclusion
The Exeed LX C-DM excels in design, power performance, intelligent features, and global quality standards. Its innovative hybrid technology and luxurious features make it an outstanding choice for young families looking for their first electric vehicle. The BYD Song Pro DM-i is a solid competitor but falls short in terms of power, smart connectivity, and battery efficiency. For those seeking a well-rounded, high-performance hybrid SUV, the Exeed LX C-DM is the clear winner.
