2025 BYD Leopard 8 PHEV: A Rugged 7-Seater SUV Ready to Roam

The 2025 BYD Leopard 8 is poised to make a splash in the SUV market, offering a blend of rugged styling, a spacious 7-seater interior, and a powerful plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain. With all-wheel drive and an impressive range, the Leopard 8 aims to be a versatile option for families and adventurers alike. The estimated starting price is $53,400.

Performance & Specs

The BYD Leopard 8 boasts a potent PHEV powertrain expected to deliver around 450 horsepower and 650 Nm of torque. This setup should allow the large SUV to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.0 seconds, reaching a top speed of around 112 mph. A sizable 40 kWh battery pack is estimated to provide a substantial all-electric range, contributing to the vehicle's total range of 1200 km (approximately 745 miles).

Design & Interior

The Leopard 8 sports a robust and modern SUV design, hinting at its off-road capabilities. The interior is designed with practicality in mind, offering seating for seven passengers across three rows. Expect quality materials and a focus on comfort for both driver and passengers, creating a pleasant environment for long journeys.

Technology & Features

While specific details are still emerging, the BYD Leopard 8 is expected to be equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced technology features. This will likely include a large touchscreen infotainment system, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) for enhanced safety, and connectivity features for seamless smartphone integration.

Driving Experience

The combination of all-wheel drive and a powerful PHEV system suggests that the Leopard 8 will offer a confident and capable driving experience. The electric motor should provide instant torque for brisk acceleration, while the gasoline engine ensures ample power for highway cruising and challenging terrains. The suspension is expected to be tuned for a comfortable ride, even on rough roads.

US Market Availability & Pricing

The US market availability of the 2025 BYD Leopard 8 is currently uncertain. The following is an EXAMPLE of what this section could look like if it was available: No official announcement has been made regarding the Leopard 8's introduction to the US market. However, given BYD's increasing global presence, it is possible that the Leopard 8 could arrive in the US by late 2025 or early 2026. If the Leopard 8 were to be imported to the US, the estimated MSRP of $53,400 would likely increase due to import duties and taxes. Federal taxes, state taxes and custom duties would be expected to be added on top of the base price. These can range from 2.5% to 25% depending on the declared value and trade agreements. Currently, there are federal EV tax credits up to $7,500 and state incentives, which could lower the initial purchase price (if the Leopard 8 qualifies). Competitors in the US market include the Kia Telluride (starting around $37,000), the Honda Pilot (starting around $38,000), and the Toyota Grand Highlander (starting around $43,000). The PHEV powertrain of the Leopard 8 would offer a unique selling point compared to these gasoline-only competitors. Furthermore, registration fees, insurance costs, and maintenance expenses should be carefully considered when estimating the total cost of ownership.

Global Market & Regional Availability

Asia

China: Expected launch in Q4 2024, starting at ¥380,000.
Singapore: Potential availability in 2026, pricing to be announced.
Thailand: Launch being considered for late 2025 or early 2026.

Europe

Germany: Possible launch in 2026, with a price premium compared to China due to import costs.
Norway: Strong interest in electric and hybrid vehicles makes Norway a potential market.
United Kingdom: Right-hand drive version would be required, making the timeline uncertain.

North America

Canada: Potential for limited availability in late 2025 or 2026, depending on demand and regulatory approvals.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Long driving range.
Spacious 7-seater configuration.
All-Wheel Drive capability.
Potent PHEV powertrain.
Competitive price point (globally).

Cons

US market availability uncertain.
Specific technology features not yet fully detailed.
Long-term reliability data not yet available.

The 2025 BYD Leopard 8 presents an intriguing option for buyers seeking a spacious, capable, and efficient SUV. Its PHEV powertrain and all-wheel drive make it well-suited for both urban environments and off-road adventures. If BYD brings the Leopard 8 to the US market, it could be a compelling alternative to established players in the mid-size SUV segment, especially for families prioritizing fuel efficiency and versatility.