Off-road vehicle manufacturer Dongfeng introduces their latest model, the M817 SUV, which features Huawei technologies, with a starting price of $44,540.
Dongfeng's M-Hero M817 vs BYD's Fang Cheng Bao Bao 8: A Comparative Analysis
In the world of premium off-road SUVs, two new models have recently entered the fray - the Dongfeng M-Hero M817 and the BYD Fang Cheng Bao Bao 8. Let's take a closer look at these two vehicles and compare their features.
The M-Hero M817, officially launched by Dongfeng on August 27, 2022, is a five-seat off-road SUV that made its debut in August 2025. It boasts a hybrid system with a 1.5L engine and dual electric motors, delivering a maximum power of 505 kW (687 horsepower) and a maximum torque of 848 Nm. This hybrid powertrain propels the M817 from 0-100 km/h in a swift 5.2 seconds, and its battery range stands at 140 kilometers, with a combined range of 1,300 kilometers when coupled with a full tank of fuel and a fully charged battery. The M817 comes in two options - Pro and Max, with starting prices of RMB 319,900 and RMB 349,900, respectively.
On the other hand, the BYD Fang Cheng Bao Bao 8, launched in November 2024, is a full-size, three-row plug-in hybrid off-road SUV. It will enter overseas markets under the Denza brand in the third quarter of 2025, targeting regions such as Africa and the Middle East. The Bao 8 is positioned as a rugged off-roader within BYD's high-end lineup and features Huawei's driver assistance system.
Here's a side-by-side comparison of the two vehicles:
| Feature | BYD Fang Cheng Bao Bao 8 | Dongfeng M-Hero M817 | |-----------------------|------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------| | Launch Date | November 2024 (China), overseas Q3 2025 | August 2025 | | Seating | Three-row, full-size SUV | Five-seat SUV | | Powertrain | Plug-in hybrid | Hybrid: 1.5L engine + dual electric motors | | Power Output | Not explicitly stated | 505 kW (687 hp), 848 Nm torque | | Acceleration (0-100km/h)| Not specified | 5.2 seconds | | Range | Combined >1,300 km (fuel + battery) | Combined 1,300 km; EV range 140 km | | Starting Price | RMB 379,800 | RMB 319,900 (Pro), RMB 349,900 (Max) | | Key Features | Huawei driver assistance system, rugged off-roader | Huawei technologies, hard-core off-road SUV |
Both SUVs emphasize off-road capability and use advanced tech including Huawei systems. However, the M-Hero M817 is slightly smaller, more powerful in hybrid output, quicker, and cheaper, while the Bao 8 offers a larger three-row configuration for more passengers.
The M-Hero M817 was rolled out in an event yesterday, marking another step forward in Dongfeng's ambitious plans to expand its electric vehicle portfolio. With its powerful hybrid system, off-road capabilities, and competitive pricing, the M-Hero M817 is poised to make a significant impact in the EV market.
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