The Chinese automotive scene just got more interesting. BYD has officially unveiled its newest sub-brand, Linghui, with the debut of the M9 MPV. Priced at 188,800 yuan (around $26,000) for the base model and 199,800 yuan (about $27,500) for the higher trim, this vehicle is positioned to tackle both corporate fleets and family needs. Can it deliver on that promise? Let’s take a closer look.
First off, the M9’s design. If you thought you’d seen it before, you’re not wrong. It takes cues from the BYD Xia but adds a fresh twist with the new Linghui logo integrated into the chrome trim connecting the headlights. The front end features a “Qingyun” grille and sleek LED daytime running lights that give it that professional business vibe. You can choose from four colors: Haoyue White, Xuanmo Black, Canglan Cyan, and Lingyun Purple.
Dimensions? The M9 stretches 5,200mm long, 1,970mm wide, and stands 1,805mm tall, with a wheelbase of 3,045mm. Yep, it’s 55mm longer than the BYD Xia, while keeping the same width and wheelbase. The base 1105 Luxury trim comes with a power-sliding door on the right side, while the 1105 Premium ups the ante with dual power-sliding doors.
| Metric | Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 5,200 mm | 55 mm longer than BYD Xia |
| Width | 1,970 mm | Same as BYD Xia |
| Height | 1,805 mm | Standard MPV height |
| Wheelbase | 3,045 mm | Consistent with Xia |
| Battery Capacity | 26.6 kWh | Supports 145 km electric range |
| Combined Range | 1,105 km | Total range with hybrid setup |
Moving inside, the cabin is pretty tech-savvy. You get a floating touchscreen and a 12.3-inch instrument cluster. The Luxury trim sports a 12.8-inch central display, while the Premium version ups it to 15.6 inches. This all runs on the DiLink 100 intelligent cockpit system, which allows for full-scene voice interaction and mobile-to-vehicle navigation transfer. Plus, there’s Huawei HiCar connectivity, which is a nice touch.
The seating arrangement is a 2+2+3 setup, with the second-row seats offering some serious comfort. We’re talking one-touch reclining, four-way power lumbar support, and even multi-mode massage and heating/ventilation functions. Family road trips just got a major upgrade.
Under the hood, the M9 is powered by BYD’s fifth-generation DM hybrid tech. It pairs a 1.5T engine with an electric motor, boasting a thermal efficiency of 45.3%. The 26.6kWh battery gives it a pure electric range of 145km and a combined range of 1,105km. The NEDC fuel consumption is 4.95L/100km when the battery’s drained.
Now, here’s where it gets tricky. The current trims only offer cruise control and miss out on advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane-keeping assist. But hang tight. BYD is set to release a future “Yunlian Flagship” version that will come with the DiPilot 100 system, featuring 26 high-precision sensors for highway navigation and automated parking.
Linghui is carving out its own niche, focusing on ride-hailing, taxis, and government fleets. This strategy sets it apart from BYD’s consumer-oriented Dynasty and Ocean series, which is a smart play given the competitive market.
So, should you rush out to buy the M9? If you’re in the market for a spacious, tech-equipped MPV and don’t mind waiting for the next wave of advanced features, this might be your ride. Otherwise, keep an eye on what’s coming next. The MPV game is heating up, and with competitors like Huawei-backed Luxeed V9 on the horizon, it’s worth seeing what they’ll bring to the table.
