We were in Changsha China to test drive the Yangwang U8 for a reason
BYD, officially unveiled their high-end sub-brand Yangwang back in January 2023 and they also showcased their e4 Platform which is to be shared with a few different Yangwang vehicles.
Now, for BYD to spend money flying a whole group of Malaysians to China to test drive a few vehicles and visit their individual brand showrooms is a clear indication that these sub-brands will be coming to Malaysia, but when?
Meanwhile, the hardcore looking all electric Yangwang U8 premium SUV is priced from about RM620,000 in China before adding in shipping, insurance, dealer margins and local duties. This means, this very intimidating electric SUV could shake up the super luxury SUV segment which is dominated by the Japanese and European traditional auto brands.
The Yangwang U8 has a maximum 1,100 horsepower and can hit 100 km/h from standstill in just 3.6 seconds.
We were informed that this U8 can be operated stably under extreme conditions, float on water and streams, take a 360-degree tank turn and has a very agile steering.
We got behind the wheel of the Yangwang U8 in a tight circuit to get a ‘feel’ of it and YES! Its acceleration was very quick, turning radius very good for a vehicle its size and there was negligible body roll and ‘bounce’ on the rough tarmac.
Cabin comfort levels were very high and on par with super luxury European SUV’s. In cabin entertainment and equipment was also very high. Touch and feel around the cabin confirmed its high grade of materials and the driver gets an information rich touch screen and also feature filled instrument cluster.
Rear seating comfort was a priority with the cabin designers and also suspension engineers as rear passengers get plush seats and ample legroom. Basketball and NBA players will ride in the rear easily.
The U8 has a slab sided boxy design that utilizes space to the maximum. Large wheels and wide rubbers provide for a sporty aggressive stance.
The front face of the U8 ‘screams’ look at me with its jewel like headlamps and shiny textured grill which extend upwards on top of the bonnet.
