- BYD is repositioning the Qin Plus DM-i with a larger body and more interior space to move the model toward mid-size sedan dimensions and better compete amid cooling domestic demand.
- The third-gen Qin Plus measures 4,840×1,900×1,498 mm with a 2,800 mm wheelbase, retains a 1.5L engine (74 kW) plus 120 kW motor, and offers 16.227 kWh and 24.337 kWh LFP batteries rated for 107 km and 160 km CLTC.
- The car targets compact-to-mid-size sedan buyers and rivals incumbent sedans, but execution risks include softer 2026 sales momentum, heavy new-model cadence, production scaling and margin pressure from aggressive feature and export pushes.
On Oct. 16, Lu Tian, general manager of BYD’s Dynasty Network Sales Division, previewed the third-generation Qin Plus DM-i, saying the new model would feature larger exterior dimensions and more interior space.
Specifications disclosed earlier in the MIIT’s 409th batch of vehicle filings show that the new car measures 4,840 × 1,900 × 1,498 mm, with a wheelbase of 2,800 mm.
Compared with the current model, the new version is 75 mm longer and 63 mm wider, while its wheelbase has been extended by 82 mm, bringing its dimensions closer to those of the mid-size sedan segment.
The exterior features a redesigned front end, ditching the prominent black grille of the current model for a cleaner look more reminiscent of an all-electric vehicle.
The regulatory filing also lists an optional roof opening for LiDAR, along with optional fender trim and exterior mirror-mounted cameras.
The new model retains a plug-in hybrid powertrain, combining a 1.5-liter engine with a maximum output of 74 kW and a permanent-magnet synchronous motor rated at 120 kW.
Two lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery options are available, with capacities of 16.227 kWh and 24.337 kWh, delivering CLTC-rated electric ranges of 107 km and 160 km, respectively.
The Qin Plus has been a major sales driver for BYD in the compact sedan segment. In 2025, annual sales reached 387,315 units, averaging more than 30,000 vehicles per month.
The model also topped China’s annual compact sedan sales rankings for the third consecutive year.
However, sales have softened in 2026. The Qin Plus sold 10,652 units in September, placing 16th in the overall sedan sales rankings.
Across BYD’s broader business, global sales reached 463,561 vehicles in September, up 16.98% year over year and setting a new monthly record. Passenger vehicle sales totaled 456,713 units.
Overseas markets provided the biggest source of incremental growth.
Exports of passenger vehicles and pickups reached 179,877 units during the month, up 153.9% year over year and accounting for nearly 40% of total sales.
However, global sales for January through September totaled approximately 3.1316 million vehicles, down 3.94% year over year, underscoring the need for new models to help sustain demand in China.
BYD has entered a concentrated new-model launch cycle in the fourth quarter.
The Da Han EV went on sale on October 13, with presale prices ranging from RMB 249,900 ($37,273) to RMB 299,900 ($44,765).
The second-generation Seagull, meanwhile, opened blind orders on October 9.
Other models scheduled to arrive in the fourth quarter include the third-generation Tang, Seal 07, Fangchengbao Shark pickup, Fangchengbao Tai 9 and Denza Z.
The planned launches span multiple market segments, from entry-level vehicles to premium offerings.
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