BYD is preparing to launch the Qin MAX, a new battery-electric sedan that brings features such as fast charging and the DiSus-C adaptive suspension to the fiercely competitive 100,000-yuan (about $14,100) segment, according to a first-drive review published by Chinese automotive media outlet Autohome.
The Qin MAX follows the design language of BYD's Dynasty family, with a sleek fastback roofline and dimensions that push it into the B-segment. The car measures 4,866 mm in length with a 2,820 mm wheelbase, nearly identical to the Qin L, which means interior space is comparable. The exterior styling is deliberately conservative and family-oriented, with soft lines and no aggressive elements, making it suitable for buyers of all ages.
Inside, the cabin is minimalist, with few physical buttons and a floating touchscreen as the visual centerpiece. Lower trims get a 12.8-inch display, while the top-spec Excellence version upgrades to a 15.6-inch screen. The steering wheel is a two-spoke flat-bottom design with touch controls, and the gear selector is mounted on the steering column, similar to Mercedes-Benz models. The car runs BYD's new DiLink 150 infotainment system, which Autohome says is smoother and more intuitive than previous versions.
Space and practicality
Autohome's reviewer, who is 180 cm tall, found ample headroom in the front, with about four finger widths of clearance. In the rear, legroom was about one fist, and headroom matched the front. The rear floor is flat, so a middle passenger won't have to straddle a hump.
The boot offers 523 litres of space with the rear seats up, enough for six carry-on suitcases, and expands to 1,450 litres with the seats folded, accommodating up to 16 suitcases. Because the rear seatbacks are thick, they don't fold completely flat, leaving a slight incline. As a BEV (battery-electric vehicle), the Qin MAX also gets a front trunk that can hold a carry-on suitcase.
The Qin MAX rides on 18-inch wheels with 225/50 tires, and the thick sidewalls help absorb road imperfections. The rear features a full-width LED light bar with a woven pattern and dynamic turn signals.
Positioning and competition
The Qin MAX is expected to slot into BYD's lineup as a more refined alternative to the Qin L, with a focus on comfort and practicality rather than sporty dynamics. Its price is expected to start around 100,000 yuan (about $14,100), a segment where BYD has been aggressive in pricing. The inclusion of fast charging and DiSus-C, a continuously adaptive damping system, would be a significant upgrade for this price point, potentially putting pressure on rivals such as the Changan Eado and Geely Emgrand.
