What does the BYD Tang DMI chassis downgrade include?
3 Answers
BYD Tang DMI has regressed to the same iron chopstick suspension and subframe as the fuel-powered Tang. However, the fuel version still comes with a spare tire, while the DMI version even omits the spare tire. Moreover, the DMI version carries a large battery and electric motor, making it heavier than the fuel version. Below is an introduction to the BYD Tang DMI: 1. Model. The BYD Tang DM is a mid-size SUV with dimensions of 4870 mm in length, 1950 mm in width, and 1725 mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2820 mm. 2. Power. This model is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine across the entire lineup. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the BYD Tang DMI delivers 192 horsepower and a maximum torque of 320 Nm. This engine features direct fuel injection technology and uses an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block. The use of an aluminum alloy cylinder head and block reduces the engine's weight, thereby improving the vehicle's handling and fuel efficiency.
I previously compared the chassis construction of the old and new Tang DM-i models and noticed significant cost-cutting measures. The front suspension, which originally used a double-wishbone setup, has been simplified to a more basic MacPherson strut design, resulting in noticeably insufficient cornering support. In terms of materials, the original aluminum alloy components have been replaced with ordinary steel, increasing weight and negatively impacting handling agility. The most egregious cost-cutting is the engine underguard—the new plastic version is so thin you can flex it by hand, while veteran owners know how crucial the original metal underguard was. The rust-proof coating on the chassis has also been thinned, making stone impacts from wet roads noticeably louder. Overall, the driving experience feels boat-like with significantly worse vibration damping. I recommend prospective buyers test-drive over multiple speed bumps to feel the difference firsthand.
I bought the new Tang DM-i last year, and compared to my friend's older model, the chassis is way worse. The rear seats bounce badly over potholes, and the mechanic said the rear anti-roll bar was completely removed. The rubber bushings in the chassis were replaced with cheap ones, and they started squeaking after just six months. The worst part is that the full-coverage aluminum-magnesium alloy underbody guard was downgraded to a small piece of plastic, which cracked when driving on rough roads back home. The steering tie rods also got thinner, making the steering feel loose with more play. Every time it's lifted for maintenance, the rust on the chassis is much more noticeable than on my colleague's older model.
