BYD Song PLUS DM-i vs Geely Galaxy L7: The Ultimate Buying Guide for 150k-class PHEV SUVs 

Introduction

With a budget of around 150,000 RMB, how do you choose a PHEV SUV that is fuel-efficient, spacious, and well-equipped? This is a common dilemma for many Chinese families today. The BYD Song PLUS DM-i, a long-term sales champion, undoubtedly has proven strength, while the Geely Galaxy L7, as a newcomer, is catching up rapidly with solid technology. Both are star products in the plug-in hybrid market, but they differ significantly in technical approach, driving experience, and suitable scenarios. Today, we will conduct a comprehensive comparison from the perspective of family users' most pressing concerns to help you find the perfect model for you.😊

1. Quick Overview: Core Differences at a Glance

To help you quickly understand the differences between the two models, let's start with a detailed parameter comparison table:

Friendly Reminder: The above data refers to the mainstream configurations of each model. Please check with local dealers for actual pricing. ⚠️

2. In-Depth Comparison: Who Understands Chinese Families Better?

2.1 Power & Efficiency: Smooth & Efficient vs. Spirited Performance

The core advantage of the BYD Song PLUS DM-i lies in its electric-focused operational logic. This system mostly behaves like an electric vehicle, with the engine primarily acting as a "generator," only directly driving the wheels during high-speed cruising.

• Technical Features:

  • Single-speed reducer has a simple structure, providing direct and smooth power delivery.

  • The 1.5L naturally aspirated engine focuses on efficient power generation.

  • Mid-to-low speed driving feel is close to that of a pure electric vehicle.

• Efficiency Performance:

  • With convenient charging for daily commutes, pure electric cost is only about 0.1 RMB/km.

  • Maintains low fuel consumption around 4.5L/100km even with a low battery.

  • Particularly suitable for urban commuting scenarios.

The Geely Galaxy L7 employs a more complex 3-speed DHT Pro transmission, emphasizing performance across all speed ranges.

• Technical Features:

  • The 1.5T turbocharged engine has more abundant power reserves.

  • 3 physical gears allow the engine to engage directly above 20 km/h.

  • Stronger high-speed overtaking and re-acceleration capability.

• Performance:

  • 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 6.9 seconds is significantly faster.

  • Power is readily available on demand during highway driving.

  • Suitable for users who require driving enjoyment.

Key Conclusion: Song PLUS DM-i wins in ultimate smoothness and low battery fuel consumption; Galaxy L7 has the upper hand in power and burst performance.

2.2 Design & Interior: Classic & Elegant vs. Tech & Trendy

In terms of exterior design, the two cars present completely different style orientations.

The Song PLUS DM-i adopts the Ocean Aesthetics design language, with smooth and elegant lines, and an overall mature and stable shape that conforms to mainstream tastes. This design, while perhaps less stunning at first glance, has high lasting appeal and suits users of all ages.

The Galaxy L7 follows a tech-sporty route, with a closed-off front grille, split-type headlights, and a fastback silhouette all highlighting its youthful positioning. The two-tone body and full-width taillights further enhance the visual impact.

Real User Feedback: "The Song PLUS DM-i looks大气 (impressive) and stable, suitable for the whole family; the Galaxy L7 is more individual and fashionable, suitable for young couples or singles."

The interior atmosphere contrast is even more pronounced:

The Song PLUS DM-i continues BYD's family-style design. The crystal electronic gear shifter and wavy dashboard create a homely and warm feel. The workmanship and materials are solid, the ergonomics are mature, and various functions are within easy reach.

The Galaxy L7's cabin is full of a technological feel, with four screens (including a 25.6-inch AR-HUD) creating an immersive digital experience. Especially the 16.2-inch entertainment screen for the co-pilot, combined with the Queen's Passenger Seat, provides an excellent riding experience for the partner.

2.3 Space & Comfort: The Family Space Showdown

As family vehicles, space and comfort are core considerations.

In terms of passenger space, the wheelbases of the two cars are similar (Song PLUS 2765mm vs. Galaxy L7 2785mm). The actual rear legroom is more than two fists (for a 175cm tall person), fully meeting family needs.

Seat comfort has its own characteristics:

• The Song PLUS DM-i's seats have soft padding, sufficient cushion length, reducing fatigue on long journeys.

• The Galaxy L7 offers a Queen's Passenger Seat with a leg rest and heating, ventilation, and massage functions, providing excellent care for the co-pilot.

Luggage Space:

• Song PLUS DM-i trunk volume is 574L, with a regular layout, easy to place large items like strollers.

• Galaxy L7 trunk volume is 530L, the fastback design slightly affects height, but is sufficient for daily use.

2.4 Smart Tech: Infotainment & Driver Assistance

Infotainment System Comparison:

• Song PLUS DM-i is equipped with the DiLink system. The 12.8-inch rotatable screen is a signature feature. The application ecosystem is rich, supporting a large number of Android apps.

• Galaxy L7 uses the Galaxy NOS system. The Qualcomm 8155 chip ensures smooth operation. The three-finger swipe function allows navigation to transfer between the central and co-pilot screens.

In terms of Intelligent Driver Assistance, both cars are equipped with L2-level systems, including:

• Full-speed Adaptive Cruise Control

• Lane Keeping Assist

• Autonomous Emergency Braking

• Traffic Sign Recognition

In actual experience, both cars perform steadily in following and lane keeping, effectively reducing fatigue on long drives. The Song PLUS DM-i's braking style is softer, while the Galaxy L7's following logic is closer to that of a real driver.

3. Purchasing Guide: Directly Telling You How to Choose

3.1 🚗 Recommended for users who choose the 「BYD Song PLUS DM-i」:

Suitable for the following profiles:

• Focus on Fuel Economy: Long daily commute distance, convenient charging conditions, hoping to minimize usage costs.

• Value Market Reputation: Trust BYD's technical accumulation and market share in the hybrid field.

• Prefer Comfortable Ride: Like the smooth, quiet, electric vehicle-like driving quality, with low demand for aggressive driving.

• Diverse Family Structure: The vehicle needs to serve the whole family, with a design style acceptable to everyone from young people to elders.

Recommended Configuration: 110km Flagship version, pure electric range is sufficient for daily use, configuration is balanced and practical.

3.2 🚀 Recommended for users who choose the 「Geely Galaxy L7」:

Suitable for the following profiles:

• Pursue Power Performance: Require driving enjoyment, hope the vehicle can provide an exciting driving experience.

• Tech Enthusiasts: Like multi-screen connectivity, smart cabins, and other cutting-edge tech features.

• Young Families: Both partners are relatively young, value co-pilot experience and entertainment functions.

• Cost-Performance Oriented: Hope to get more features and stronger performance under the same budget.

Recommended Configuration: 115km MAX version, fully equipped, best power experience.

Car Buying Tip: It is recommended to test drive both cars before placing an order, personally experience the differences in power response, seat comfort, and infotainment operation, and choose the model that best suits your driving habits. 👍

4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

4.1 Which car has lower usage costs for city driving?

Answer: This depends on your charging conditions and driving habits. If charging is convenient, the electricity costs of the two models are similar. But when driving with a low battery, the Song PLUS DM-i has a slight advantage.

Calculated based on a 50 km daily commute:

• Song PLUS DM-i: Low battery fuel consumption 4.5L/100km, daily fuel cost about 18 RMB (based on 8 RMB/L fuel price).

• Galaxy L7: Low battery fuel consumption 4.8L/100km, daily fuel cost about 19.2 RMB.

If charging is convenient, pure electric cost is only about 5 RMB/day. For users without easy charging access, the Song PLUS DM-i's fuel consumption advantage becomes more significant.

4.2 How do the battery safety and technologies of the two cars differ?

Answer: Both cars place high importance on battery safety, but their technical routes differ.

BYD uses Blade Battery technology, characterized by:

• The lithium iron phosphate (LFP) material itself has better thermal stability.

• Battery cells are directly integrated into the battery pack, with higher structural strength.

• Has passed nail penetration tests, making it less prone to fire in extreme situations.

The Galaxy L7 is equipped with the God Shield Battery Safety System, which includes:

• Developed based on Geely's architectural standards, battery pack protection rating reaches IP68.

• Passed multiple rigorous safety tests (e.g., seawater corrosion, impact跌落).

• Battery pack and body are designed integrally, improving overall rigidity.

Both technologies have been market-tested and offer reliable safety.

4.3 Which car has a higher resale value?

Answer: Currently, the BYD Song PLUS DM-i has a slightly higher resale value advantage.

According to data from the China Automobile Dealers Association:

• Song PLUS DM-i one-year resale value rate is about 78%-82%.

• Galaxy L7, being newer to the market, is estimated to have a one-year resale value rate of 75%-78%.

BYD, with its larger market share and brand recognition, is more popular in the used car market. However, as a new product, if the Galaxy L7's reputation continues to improve, its resale value has room to increase.

4.4 Which car is more suitable for families with children?

Answer: Both cars are suitable for family use, but each has its focus.

Advantages of Song PLUS DM-i:

• Suspension tuning is more comfortable, with better vibration filtering.

• Excellent interior noise control, making it easier for babies to fall asleep.

• Simple and intuitive operation, easy for elders to use.

Highlights of Galaxy L7:

• The co-pilot entertainment screen can play cartoons to soothe children.

• The Queen's Passenger Seat makes it easier for mothers to care for babies in the back.

• Sportier chassis, appealing to young parents.

It is recommended to choose based on the child's age and family travel habits.

4.5 How is the range degradation in winter?

Answer: PHEV models also face range degradation in winter. Both cars are equipped with battery thermal management systems.

Song PLUS DM-i:

• Wide-temperature range heat pump air conditioner improves winter energy consumption.

• Pure electric range typically reduces to 70-80% of rated range in real winter conditions.

• The engine can intervene promptly to compensate for power and heating.

Galaxy L7:

• The battery pack has an active heating function.

• The 3-speed DHT allows the engine to engage earlier, ensuring heating without consuming battery power.

• Pure electric range in winter is about 70-75% of rated range.

In extremely cold conditions, the Galaxy L7's engine engagement strategy can better ensure passenger comfort.

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