BYD Song Plus Dune Hybrid Review: 1,000km Real-World Test

content: The BYD Song Plus Dune Hybrid’s Practical Appeal

The BYD Song Plus Dune Hybrid targets outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize efficiency without sacrificing capability. After driving it over 1,000km through Sagada’s mountains, we verified its unique position in the market. Unlike competitors like the GWM Haval H6 or Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, this is the only AWD hybrid crossover under ₱2 million. Its retro-futuristic styling turns heads, but does it deliver beyond aesthetics?

Exterior Design and Utility

Standout Features: 19-inch wheels, 215mm ground clearance, and power tailgate
Practical Drawbacks: Accessories (roof rails, ladder) increase wind noise at highway speeds
Unique Lighting: Animated rear light sequence adds character

The clean rear design avoids over-styling, though the thick doors limit ingress space. The stepboard creates clearance issues for shorter drivers—a rare oversight in an otherwise well-considered package.

content: Interior Experience and Daily Functionality

Cabin Comfort and Tech

Seating and Space:

Pros: Flat floor enables 3-across seating, massive legroom (even behind 6-foot drivers)
Cons: Soft seats lack bolstering for spirited driving or off-roading

Infotainment Critique:
The 14.6-inch touchscreen lacks Android Auto/Apple Carplay—BYD promises future updates. Wireless charging and panoramic sunroof offset this gap.

Storage Quirks:

Abundant compartments including phone slots
Oddity: Front-row parcel hooks (purpose unclear)

NVH levels impress in city driving, with near-silent EV mode operation.

content: Performance and Efficiency Breakdown

Powertrain Analysis

The 1.5L gasoline engine paired with a 2-speed e-transmission delivers 685 Nm torque—effortless for mountain overtakes. Key findings:

Driving Feel: Smooth, EV-like acceleration without turbo lag
Real-World Efficiency:
- City: 10 km/L
- Highway: 16 km/L
- Mountain driving (spirited): 15 km/L

Driving Dynamics

Strengths:

AWD system grips confidently on corners
Comfort-tuned suspension handles city roads well

Weaknesses:

Excessive body roll during aggressive cornering
Numb steering feedback over long drives
Suspression bottoms out on severe off-road sections

Wind noise becomes intrusive above 60 km/h, primarily from accessory mounts.

content: Verdict and Key Considerations

Who Should Buy It?

The Song Plus Dune Hybrid excels for:

Urban adventurers needing occasional AWD capability
Efficiency-focused drivers prioritizing hybrid tech
Families valuing rear-seat space and comfort

Critical Caveats:

Verify CarPlay/Android Auto availability with dealers
Test drive on highways to assess wind noise tolerance
Consider removing non-essential accessories

Competitive Edge:
At ₱1.888M, its AWD hybrid powertrain is unmatched in price. The Hyundai Tucson Hybrid (₱2.4M+) lacks this system, while similarly priced rivals use conventional drivetrains.

content: Actionable Buyer’s Guide

Immediate Checklist

Test Noise Levels: Drive at 80 km/h+ to evaluate accessory-induced wind noise
Confirm Software Updates: Ask dealers for written confirmation on CarPlay timeline
Inspect Cargo System: Practice folding rear seats (2-step process)
Evaluate Stepboards: Ensure comfortable entry/exit for all drivers
Verify Charging Outlets: Test 12V and 220V ports

Recommended Resources

AutoDeal App (iOS/Android): Compare real-time pricing and dealer contacts
BYD Owner Communities: Track software update experiences
Test Drive Alternatives: GWM Haval H6 (better tech) or Subaru Forester (superior AWD)

content: Final Thoughts

The BYD Song Plus Dune Hybrid delivers exceptional value with its unique AWD hybrid system and spacious interior. While wind noise and suspension tuning need refinement, it’s a compelling choice for efficiency-focused adventurers. We recommend it cautiously—prioritize a test drive on your regular routes.

Question for Readers:
Which trade-off—wind noise versus AWD capability—would most impact your decision? Share your driving priorities below!