An updated BYD M6 minivan, a familiar vehicle with a new purpose, was recently spotted on the roads in China. While it might look like just another MPV, this model signals a strategic move by the electric vehicle giant. It’s a refreshed version of a car once sold in China as the Song Max, now equipped with a redesigned interior and a modern plug-in hybrid system, all aimed squarely at international buyers.
The BYD Song Max first hit the Chinese market back in 2017 as a conventional gasoline MPV. In true BYD fashion, it quickly evolved, with pure electric (BEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions following. Although the Song Max was retired from China after its last update in 2022, its all-electric variant found a new life overseas, where it’s known as either the M6 or eMax 7. This latest prototype, however, brings the story full circle, reintroducing a hybrid option into the mix.
A Familiar Shape with Fresh Details
From the outside, the updated M6 doesn’t stray too far from its roots, but the details make a difference. It features a large front grille with clean horizontal bars, flanked by sizable headlights that give it a confident presence. Around back, the taillight units are now separate, cleaning up the design. Chrome accents along the sides, including a distinctive “Space” inscription, add a touch of premium feel. It’s practical, too, with conventional door handles and a subtle roof spoiler. The minivan’s dimensions, at 4710 mm long, 1810 mm wide, and 1690 mm tall, with a 2785 mm wheelbase, place it firmly in the practical family hauler category.
An Interior Designed for Modern Life
Inside is where the M6 shows its most significant updates. The cabin gets a completely redesigned center tunnel that’s more functional than ever. It now houses two wireless phone charging pads, a tidy block of physical buttons for essential controls, two cup holders, and a handy storage compartment. To free up all that space, the gear shifter has been relocated to the steering column, a clever touch common in many modern EVs.
The driver is greeted by a D-shaped steering wheel featuring the “BYD” emblem, a clear sign this model is destined for export markets rather than China’s dynasty-themed domestic lineup. A large floating touchscreen for infotainment and a crisp LCD instrument cluster handle all the key information.
For passengers, the second row offers three seats, making it a versatile people mover. An interesting detail from the spy shots is the choice of materials. The front seats are covered in durable fabric, while the second-row seats are wrapped in a more premium leatherette. This could be a smart cost-saving measure to keep the vehicle competitive without sacrificing comfort where it counts most for passengers.
The Hybrid Heart of the M6
While no official details have been released, the updated M6 is expected to feature BYD’s impressive 5.0 DM-i plug-in hybrid system. This technology is one of the keys to the brand’s success, offering a smart blend of efficiency and performance. The system likely pairs a 1.5-liter engine producing around 74 kW (99 hp) with a potent 160 kW (215 hp) electric motor. This setup allows the car to operate mostly as an EV for daily driving, with the gasoline engine acting as a quiet generator or kicking in for extra power when needed. It’s a perfect solution for markets that still lack widespread charging infrastructure.
For comparison, the existing all-electric M6 available in some countries uses a single 150 kW (201 hp) motor powered by LFP battery packs of either 55.4 kWh or 71.8 kWh. Those models provide a respectable range of 420 to 530 km on the NEDC cycle. The new hybrid variant will offer a different kind of freedom, eliminating range anxiety altogether. This strategy of refining and repurposing platforms is a key reason why BYD continues to grow.
While the exact specifications of the new powertrain are still under wraps, the revival of the M6 as a hybrid demonstrates BYD’s flexible and pragmatic approach to global expansion. By offering a practical, affordable, and highly efficient MPV, the company is catering directly to the needs of families around the world, proving that you don’t always need a brand-new model to make a smart move.
