In real-world driving, the BYD Yuan PLUS delivers immediate and brisk acceleration off the line, a hallmark of electric vehicles, thanks to its instant torque. This makes it well-suited for urban commuting and merging onto highways. While its power reserves are ample for a family SUV, the mid-to-long-range acceleration feels less aggressive compared to its energetic initial surge.

The flagship variant tested here is equipped with BYD’s Blade Battery, a 60.48 kWh pack offering a CLTC-rated range of 510 kilometers (317 miles). By comparison, rival new energy models like the Leapmotor B10 (representing its class, though actual model codes may vary) often offer larger batteries (e.g., nearly 70 kWh), achieving ranges exceeding 550 kilometers (342 miles). However, this comes at the cost of higher pricing and increased vehicle weight.

In city driving, the BYD Yuan PLUS’s chassis strikes a balance between comfort and responsiveness, adeptly handling road seams and minor bumps. However, over consecutive potholes or larger speed bumps, the suspension’s secondary damping feels slightly firm, transmitting noticeable jolts into the cabin. At highway speeds, the vehicle remains stable, though wind noise near the A-pillars becomes prominent beyond 110 km/h (68 mph).

In contrast, the comfort-oriented Leapmotor B10 prioritizes a "sofa-like" ride with superior vibration isolation and quieter cabin acoustics. However, this often results in a less communicative driving experience and diminished road feel.

Leveraging BYD’s e-Platform 3.0, the BYD Yuan PLUS is agile for its class. The steering is precise but lacks feedback, aligning with its easy-going family SUV persona. Predictable body roll occurs during sharp turns, but stability control intervenes smoothly and timely.

Compared to the Leapmotor B10, which leans further into comfort and stability, the BYD Yuan PLUS feels more nimble. While the Leapmotor B10’s dynamic tuning may feel more ponderous at its limits, it offers a reassuringly stable demeanor for daily driving.

“The BYD Yuan PLUS embodies the essence of an electric vehicle: effortless, quiet, and quick. It doesn’t chase a sporty vibe but focuses on usability and peace of mind, which resonates with its core audience,” says Wu Pei, a renowned automotive reviewer.

Its elevated seating position, common in EVs, provides expansive visibility, aiding urban navigation and distance judgment. The sporty seat design offers decent support, though some users may find the cushioning firm. Electric adjustment (with ventilation/heating in higher trims) adds convenience.

The sloped hood and slim A-pillars minimize blind spots, enhancing forward visibility. Rear visibility is constrained by the compact rear design and thick C-pillars, but standard rear sensors and a reversing camera (upgraded to 360° in mid- and high-trim models) mitigate this. Optional blind-spot monitoring further boosts safety.

The BYD Yuan PLUS’s interior is its most polarizing feature. The "gym-inspired" theme includes dumbbell-shaped air vents, a treadmill-style center console, and string-like door storage compartments. A 12.8-inch (15.6-inch in higher trims) rotatable floating touchscreen anchors the cabin, running BYD’s DiLink 4.0 system with robust functionality. While critical controls (AC, driving modes) remain as physical buttons, secondary menu navigation can feel cumbersome during driving.

In contrast, the Leapmotor B10 adopts a minimalist, tech-forward design with multi-screen integration and premium materials, appealing to traditional notions of luxury.

The dashboard features soft-touch materials, but cost-cutting is evident in hard plastic sections. The gym-themed elements divide opinions—while unique, the plastic-heavy surfaces may not satisfy buyers seeking premium tactility. New energy rivals like the Leapmotor B10 often prioritize lavish materials, creating a more upscale perception.

Despite its compact SUV footprint, the BYD Yuan PLUS boasts a 2,720 mm (8.9 ft) wheelbase, offering generous rear legroom and a flat floor for middle passengers. Headroom suits those under 180 cm (5'11"). While slightly smaller than larger rivals like the Leapmotor B10, its efficient layout ensures competitive real-world usability.

The 434-liter (15.3 cu.ft) trunk is spacious and flat-floored, expandable via 4/6 split-folding rear seats. Thoughtful touches include deep door pockets and a hollowed-out center console. A frunk (front trunk) is absent, a minor drawback compared to some competitors.

“The BYD Yuan PLUS proves that electric platforms can optimize space within compact dimensions, meeting mainstream family needs efficiently. Its space utilization sets a benchmark,” notes Shen Jie, EV Fanatic’s space specialist.

Pricing is a key strength. The base model is competitively priced, with standard features like tire-pressure monitoring, reversing camera, cruise control, LED lights, and the DiLink system. While BYD’s brand recognition and dealership network outshine many rivals, the Leapmotor B10 may offer higher-spec hardware (e.g., larger batteries, advanced driver-assistance systems) at similar price points.

BYD excels in charging and energy efficiency. The BYD Yuan PLUS supports 80 kW DC fast charging, replenishing from 30% to 80% in 30 minutes. Its energy consumption figures are class-competitive, with strong real-world range retention.

The Leapmotor B10 might offer faster 100 kW+ charging, but its long-term efficiency and range consistency remain unproven.

BYD offers an industry-leading 6-year/150,000 km (93,000 mi) warranty for first owners, with lifetime coverage for the core EV powertrain (non-commercial use, under 30,000 km/year). The Blade Battery’s safety credentials, proven in rigorous nail-penetration tests, further bolster confidence. The BYD Yuan PLUS scores highly in global crash tests, rivaling newer EVs in passive and active safety.

“The BYD Yuan PLUS’s success is no accident. It combines proven EV tech, practicality, competitive pricing, and BYD’s growing global brand equity to target mainstream consumers’ pain points,” says Li Yang, an automotive analyst.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.What is the BYD Yuan PLUS?

A SUV (trendy sports SUV) built on BYD’s e-Platform 3.0, designed for global markets. It’s a cornerstone of BYD’s EV lineup and a top-selling model.

2.What battery does the BYD Yuan PLUS use? Is it safe?

Equipped with BYD’s proprietary LFP Blade Battery. Its thermal runaway safety measures, including nail-penetration test validation, set industry benchmarks.

3.Yuan PLUS vs. Leapmotor B10: Which to choose?

The BYD Yuan PLUSadvantages include brand maturity, proven EV tech, strong resale value, and extensive service networks. The Leapmotor B10 may offer larger dimensions, higher specs, and luxurious materials, appealing to buyers prioritizing novelty and parameter-driven value.