Dongfeng’s M-Hero brand just rolled out a new beast for its growing family of rugged off-roaders. The M817 Max+, priced at 369,900 yuan ($51,200 USD), isn’t just another big SUV. It’s a plug-in hybrid powerhouse that’s packed with serious hardware from some of China’s biggest tech names.
With a brawny exterior and upgraded internals, the M817 Max+ looks ready to challenge the established players in the premium off-road market. Let’s dig into what makes this machine tick.
| Metric | Value | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak Power | 505 | kW | 677 hp combined (1.5T engine + electric motors) |
| Peak Torque | 848 | Nm | Instant electric torque combined with engine power |
| Battery Capacity | 50.4 | kWh | CATL Freevoy battery pack |
| Pure Electric Range | 215 | km | CLTC cycle |
| Combined Range | 1,365 | km | CLTC cycle |
| Dimensions (L/W/H) | 5,100 / 1,998 / 1,899 | mm | Wheelbase: 3,005 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 237 | mm | Minimum |
| Max Wading Depth | 820 | mm | Can handle deep water crossings |
| Starting Price | 369,900 | CNY | Approximately 51,200 USD |
A Hybrid Heart with a Punch
Under the hood, the M817 Max+ combines a 1.5T engine with electric motors to create a seriously potent hybrid system. The total output is a massive 505 kW (677 hp) and 848 Nm of torque. That’s enough grunt to get this large SUV moving with surprising urgency, whether you’re on the highway or climbing a steep trail.
What’s clever is how it uses its power. The M817 Max+ features a two-speed PHEV architecture and a distributed four-wheel drive system. In simple terms, this means it can operate as a pure EV, use the engine to extend its range, or combine both for maximum performance. With nine different driving modes, you can tailor the vehicle’s response for any terrain, from city streets to desert dunes.
Built to Play Dirty
Dongfeng gave the M817 Max+ the numbers to back up its tough looks. An approach angle of 31 degrees means you can tackle steep inclines without scraping the front bumper. With a minimum ground clearance of 237mm and a wading depth of 820mm, it’s clear this isn’t just a show pony. It’s a genuine rugged off-road vehicle designed to get you far off the beaten path and, more importantly, get you back.
The impressive specs are a testament to China’s rapidly advancing auto industry, where even state-owned giants like Dongfeng are pushing the envelope.
Brains by Huawei, Guts by CATL
The M817 Max+ is a great example of how Chinese automakers are leveraging their domestic supply chain. The large 50.4 kWh battery comes from CATL, the world’s largest battery manufacturer. It provides a pure electric range of 215 km (CLTC), which is plenty for daily errands and short commutes without ever firing up the gas engine. For longer trips, the combined range of 1,365 km offers incredible freedom.
The intelligent driving system is just as impressive. The SUV comes standard with Huawei’s Qiankun intelligent driving system (ADS 4). Supported by a sensor suite of 27 devices, including LiDAR, 4D millimeter-wave radars, and HD cameras, the system enables features like Navigation Cruise Assist (NCA) for long-distance driving and advanced parking assistance for tight city spots.
Inside, the tech theme continues with the HarmonySpace 5 smart cockpit. The interior is available in three tasteful color schemes, Pine Ink, Mountain Grey, and Danxia Brown, giving the rugged exterior a surprisingly refined cabin. It’s a compelling blend of raw capability and modern luxury, all for a price that significantly undercuts many of its international rivals. The M-Hero M817 Max+ feels less like an experiment and more like a confident statement.
