BYD’s Yangwang sub-brand has unleashed the U8L, a beastly luxury SUV that’s turning heads with 1,180 horsepower and a price tag around $179,690! As a car enthusiast who’s followed BYD’s rise from budget EVs to high-end challengers, this one feels like a mic drop. Launched yesterday, the U8L racked up thousands of orders in minutes, proving it’s not just hype. With features like a 24K gold emblem and the ability to float in emergencies, it’s gunning to humble traditional luxury SUVs like the Range Rover or Mercedes G-Class. Let’s dive into what makes this hybrid giant tick—I’m already dreaming of a test drive.
What Sets the Yangwang U8L Apart in Luxury?
The U8L isn’t your average SUV; it’s Yangwang’s fourth model and a long-wheelbase upgrade to the rugged U8 off-roader, screaming ultra-luxury from every angle. Measuring a massive 5,400 mm long, 2,049 mm wide, and 1,921 mm high with a 3,250 mm wheelbase, it’s built for presence. That 24K gold emblem? A flashy touch of exclusivity that few rivals match, underscoring BYD’s push into premium territory. Launched in the “Dingshi Edition,” it starts at about $179,690 (€167,000), with deliveries kicking off by late September—perfect timing for holiday wish lists.
This SUV’s a statement from BYD (under SAIC Motor), blending brute force with smart tech to redefine the segment. I remember testing a BYD Atto 3 last year—solid, but the U8L takes it to another level, competing with icons while undercutting their prices.
Power and Performance: A Hybrid Beast
Under the skin, the U8L rides BYD’s innovative e4 platform with four electric motors delivering a combined 880 kW (1,180 hp) and 1,280 Nm of torque—enough to rocket from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. That’s supercar speed in an SUV body! As a plug-in hybrid, it offers 200 km (about 124 miles) of electric range (CLTC), stretching to a total of 1,160 km (721 miles) when fueled up—ideal for long hauls without constant stops.
The DiSus-P body control system, BYD’s most advanced yet, keeps things plush over bumps while enabling wild tricks like the “tank turn” (rotating on its axis) and emergency flotation for up to 30 minutes in floods. Add stability with a flat tire, and you’ve got off-road prowess that rivals the Land Rover Defender. For context, check out the Yangwang U9 hypercar—BYD’s speed demon that shattered records; the U8L brings similar innovation to SUV life.
Cutting-Edge Tech Inside and Out
Tech-wise, the U8L shines with the God’s Eye A intelligent driving system and DiPilot 600 assistance suite for top-tier safety and autonomy. It’s got everything from adaptive cruise to lane-keeping, plus a connected cockpit that feels futuristic. The interior’s spacious and opulent, with premium materials fitting its luxury badge. Deliveries start end of September, so early birds might snag one soon.
BYD’s luxury push is paying off—Yangwang sold 405 units in August alone, up 30% year-over-year, thanks to hits like the U8, U9, and U7. The U8L, launched alongside the Denza N9, cements their high-end strategy.
How It Stacks Up in the Global Arena
Priced at $179,690, the U8L undercuts many rivals while packing more punch—think Range Rover’s opulence but with BYD’s EV edge. It’s heavier at 3,595 kg curb weight (4,210 kg gross), but that’s the trade for its size and features. No Europe exports yet due to weight regs (over 3.5 tonnes GVW needs a truck license), but it’s eyeing global markets. Compared to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, its split tailgate and gold accents scream exclusivity without the insane markup.
My Verdict: A Luxury Shake-Up Worth Watching
The BYD Yangwang U8L is a bold flex—1,180 hp, floating capability, and luxury at a (relatively) accessible price. It’s not just competing; it’s redefining what a high-end SUV can be. With deliveries imminent, I’m curious if it’ll hit international shores soon. Would you trade your G-Class for this? Let me know below!
Source- canalcarro.net.br
