In China, the BYD Leopard 5 stands as a plug-in hybrid SUV boasting an impressive 680 horsepower.
Introducing the Leopard 5, a fresh addition to the midsize SUV lineup. From the BYD sub-brand, this vehicle will feature a robust 680-horsepower plug-in hybrid engine and will carry a price tag of 400,000 yuan ($50,000) in the Chinese market.
In June, BYD unveiled their latest sub-brand named “Fang Cheng Bao,” which translates to “Formula” and “Leopard” in Chinese. This marks BYD’s fifth sub-brand and it aims to manufacture a diverse range of vehicles, spanning from off-road vehicles to sports cars. This strategic move is intended to cater to a broader spectrum of consumer preferences.
Fang Cheng Bao, also known as Leopard, has recently introduced its inaugural SUV to the Chinese public. This fresh SUV will be presented as the Leopard 5 or Bao 5 (in Chinese), and there is potential for it to adopt the name Super 5 if it becomes available in international markets.
The BYD Leopard 5 stands as a mid-size SUV, crafted upon the innovative DMO (Dual Mode Off-road) hybrid platform. Anticipated to debut in China this year, this SUV will soon be accompanied by two additional models, namely Leopard 3 and Leopard 8.
BYD Leopard 5 Exterior
The BYD Leopard 5 embodies a mid-size SUV configuration, characterized by its body dimensions: a length of 4,890 mm, a width of 1,970 mm, a height of 1,920 mm, a wheelbase spanning 2,800 mm, and a commendable ground clearance of 220 mm. Additionally, boasting an approach angle of 35 degrees and an exit angle of 32 degrees further underscores its off-road capability.
Regarding the design aspect, the aesthetic approach will embody the essence of an off-road SUV. Showcasing the distinctive “Leopard Power Aesthetics” design language, the vehicle exudes a square, retro-inspired SUV style. Upfront, a sizable black grille with a square grid pattern takes center stage, enhancing its commanding presence.
Positioned at the center is the emblem of the Leopard, a composition of interconnected four diamonds, accompanied by a front camera positioned just beneath it.
Surrounded by an array of matrix headlights, two LED light strips stretch horizontally across the upper section. Beneath the front grille, these headlights harmoniously link both sides, accentuated by prominent silver accents contributing to an opulent aesthetic. Additionally, a touch of luxury is added by seamlessly incorporating small round fog lamps into the bumper’s design.
The vehicle’s side profile showcases bold angles in its design lines. These angles create an assertive appearance. Complementing this style, square black wheel arches perfectly accommodate 18-inch alloy wheels, encased in A/T tires supplied by BFGoodrich, sized at 265/55 R18.
Injecting a rugged off-road demeanor, the presence of black door sills and roof rails contributes to a bold aesthetic. Moreover, safety is augmented by integrating cameras positioned behind the front wheel arches on both sides.
At the back, a spare wheel encased in a wheel cover is a notable feature. The rear view boasts a robust and substantial design, accentuated by a sizable bumper that integrates two sturdy tow hooks.
Interior Details
The interior accommodates five passengers, with a design that accentuates modern high-tech elements. The dashboard features a trio of screens: one presenting driving information positioned behind the D-Shape multifunction steering wheel, another serving as an information screen at the center, and an additional screen positioned on the front passenger side. The BYD Leopard 5 also has an expansive 50-inch AR-HUD display.
The expansive center console showcases a generous expanse, seamlessly linking to the front console like a suspension bridge. Below, a storage compartment is featured, hosting 2 USB ports and 1 Type-C port, while the head houses control buttons crafted from crystal glass. At the upper section, two smartphone charging stations are provided, accompanied by a retractable gear lever. Additionally, an airplane-inspired car control button adds a unique touch.
When it comes to interior features, the BYD Leopard 5 is equipped with automatic air conditioning, streaming rear-view mirrors, a heated compressor refrigerator, and a car cooling system. The intelligent fragrance system and Devialet audio setup boasting 18 speakers further enhance the interior experience. Moreover, the inclusion of a sunroof adds to the vehicle’s appeal.
Additionally, it features a Face ID sensor positioned on the A-pillar from the driver’s side, complemented by an L2-level driver assistance system.
Performance Details
In the realm of power, the Leopard 5 will be equipped with an innovative hybrid system named DMO (Dual Mode Off-road), coupled with the intelligent hydraulic chassis control, Cloud-P.
This powertrain configuration involves a synergy of a 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine and a dual electric motor setup. The forward motor generates 268 horsepower, while the rear counterpart contributes 385 horsepower. With the inclusion of 3 differential locks, this amalgamation results in a collective power output of 680 horsepower and a remarkable peak torque of 760 Nm. As a result, it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds.
Utilizing CTC technology, the battery achieves a full charge within 16 minutes, enabling a pure electric range of 125 km as per CLTC standards. Moreover, with a fully charged battery, it can cover a distance of up to 1,200 km, adhering to CLTC benchmarks.
The Leopard 5 is slated to make its next appearance at the Chengdu Auto Show, commencing on August 25, followed by a comprehensive unveiling on the same day.
The anticipated price tag for the BYD Leopard 5 hovers around 400,000 yuan, which is approximately 1.9 million in China’s currency. This model will be available in both the domestic market and overseas.