BYD's Budget Defender Rival Expected To Go On Sale Globally In 2024

The rugged SUV will produce 671 hp.

BYD G Wagon Rival

Ben O'Hare

By: Ben O'Hare

Mar 12, 2023 at 10:31am ET

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Chinese automaker BYD will launch a cut-price Land Rover Defender alternative next year. A rugged off-roader with 671 hp, the SUV is internally codenamed SF.

According to British outlet AutoCar, the SF will feature a plug-in hybrid powertrain with a range of more than 746 miles. Furthermore, it will be built on a ladder-frame chassis with front, center and rear differential locks.

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The SF will cost between ¥400,000 and ¥600,000 ($57,000 and $86,000) in China depending on trim. Not bad, given the amount of power on offer. For reference, the most powerful version of the Land Rover Defender makes 518 hp and starts at $107,900.

BYD promises the SF will be sold globally. Whether that means it will launch in North America is another story. Selling a vehicle "globally" could simply imply sales in Asia and a handful of European nations. After all, despite being one of China's leading vehicle manufacturers BYD has little presence outside of Asia.

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That said, the automaker is looking to build its presence in Europe and officially started selling cars in the UK earlier this year. The Atto 3 crossover is BYD's halo product in Europe. With a range of around 250 miles, the Atto 3 is a compelling Model Y alternative for the budget-conscious consumer.

A larger BYD off-roader with more luxury touches is also in the works. Dubbed the U8, it will target the Mercedes EQG. The U8 will be sold through BYD's new luxury sub-brand, Yangwang. The luxury off-roader will start at the equivalent of around $115,000 in China with top-of-the-line models exceeding $200,000. Unlike the SF, the U8 is not a plug-in hybrid but instead a full EV with over 1,000 hp.

Source: AutoCar UK

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