BYD Cars Philippines has officially unveiled the 2025 BYD Tang DM-i, a plug-in hybrid SUV positioned above the Sea Lion 5 and Sea Lion 6, with an expected starting price of around ₱2.2 million. The launch marks the brand’s 12th model in the country, reinforcing BYD’s aggressive push into the Philippine automotive market.
2025 BYD Tang DM-i Pricing and Positioning
The 2025 BYD Tang DM-i is a seven-seater plug-in hybrid SUV designed to compete in the premium crossover segment. Slotted above the Sea Lion lineup, it shares its platform with the Tang EV, BYD’s flagship SUV, but features the brand’s Super DM-i plug-in hybrid powertrain.
- Expected Price: ~₱2.2 million (Philippines)
- Market Position: Above Sea Lion 5 and Sea Lion 6
- Configuration: Seven-seater, crossover SUV
2025 BYD Tang DM-i Exterior Design
The Tang DM-i carries forward BYD’s contemporary SUV design language while distinguishing itself with subtle differences:
- Front Fascia: Large front grille with chrome accents and LED headlights with integrated DRLs.
- Wheels: 20-inch alloys (compared to 21-inch on the Tang EV), wrapped in GT Radial tires.
- Color Options:
- Pearl White: Offers a metallic finish with a yellowish tint under sunlight.
- Moonstone Gray (Black Edition look): Features blacked-out grille, wheels, and BYD badging.
At the rear, the SUV sports redesigned LED taillights, “Tang” and “DM-i” badging, and a power tailgate with ample cargo space, unaffected by the hybrid system.
Interior and Features
Inside, the 2025 BYD Tang DM-i combines premium materials with BYD’s high-tech cabin layout:
- Seating: Seven-seater configuration with ventilated and heated front seats.
- Infotainment: A 15.6-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (non-rotating, unlike other BYD models).
- Climate Control: Dual-zone system (Tang EV offers tri-zone).
- Instrumentation: Fully digital cluster with EV/HEV drive mode selector.
- Audio System: Dynaudio premium sound.
- Other Highlights: Tilt & telescopic steering, panoramic sunroof, electronic gear shifter, electronic parking brake, and multiple storage solutions.
Second-row passengers benefit from spacious legroom, soft-touch materials, and USB ports, while the third row is suitable for short trips, offering adequate legroom but limited comfort due to the absence of air vents.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2025 BYD Tang DM-i is powered by the brand’s advanced Super DM-i plug-in hybrid system, combining a turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor:
- Engine: 1.5L turbocharged petrol engine, 150 hp / 225 Nm torque
- Electric Motor: 217 hp / 300+ Nm torque
- Battery: BYD Blade Battery
- Drive Modes: EV-only and HEV hybrid modes
On-road impressions highlight:
- Refinement: Significantly quieter than diesel rivals, with reduced road and tire noise.
- Comfort: Smooth ride quality, though slightly bouncy at times.
- Handling: Low body roll, aided by the battery’s placement beneath the chassis.
- Steering: Light, direct, and responsive thanks to electric power-assisted steering.
Suspension is a MacPherson strut setup rather than the adaptive system found in the Tang EV, but still delivers composed handling.
Market Outlook
With its competitive ₱2.2 million pricing, seven-seat practicality, and strong hybrid performance, the 2025 BYD Tang DM-i could emerge as a compelling alternative to diesel SUVs like the Mitsubishi Montero Sport and Toyota Fortuner.
The BYD Tang DM-i not only strengthens BYD’s Philippine lineup but also aligns with the brand’s strategy of promoting electrified mobility solutions in Southeast Asia.
Conclusion
The 2025 BYD Tang DM-i blends flagship-level refinement with the efficiency of BYD’s Super DM-i hybrid system, offering Filipino buyers a quieter, more sophisticated alternative to conventional diesel SUVs. With its premium features, attractive pricing, and focus on sustainability, the Tang DM-i is positioned to play a significant role in BYD’s expansion in the Philippines.
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