In an era where the compact plug-in hybrid sedan segment has long been dominated by the BYD Qin PLUS DM-i, the Changan Qiyuan A05 enters the fray as a compelling "value alternative." It aims to redefine the standards for family sedans in the 80,000 to 120,000 RMB price bracket through fresh design, efficient powertrain technology, and class-leading intelligent features.

On the road, the Changan Qiyuan A05, powered by a 1.5L Blue Whale hybrid-specific engine (1,498 mL) paired with an electric motor, delivers composure befitting its segment. The electric motor boasts a maximum output of 158 kW and peak torque of 330 N·m. The power delivery is linear and refined; initial throttle response is sharp yet never abrupt, unfolding smoothly like silk. Under hard acceleration, the motor and engine operate in parallel, providing brisk and potent pickup, with ample reserve power even in the mid-to-high speed ranges.

By comparison, the BYD Qin PLUS DM-i utilizes a 1.5L Xiaoyun engine (1,498 mL) coupled with an electric motor ranging from 132 kW to 145 kW and torque between 316 N·m and 325 N·m. Its powertrain philosophy prioritizes "smoothness and economy." While the initial throttle response is slightly more reserved, the transition to engine (engine engagement) is virtually imperceptible. Like the Changan Qiyuan A05, its overall character leans toward comfort, though the DM-i system is widely recognized for its superior fuel efficiency under depleted battery conditions. While both share a similar philosophy centered on "family comfort," the Changan Qiyuan A05 offers greater motor power for a more direct acceleration feel, whereas the Qin PLUS presents a more balanced and efficient profile.

Regarding range, the Changan Qiyuan A05 offers pure electric ranges of 70 km and 145 km (CLTC), with a combined range easily exceeding 1,300 km. The Qin PLUS DM-i provides 55 km and 120 km versions (NEDC/WLTC), also delivering impressive combined range. Both models alleviate range anxiety through their dual-mode capability, though the Changan Qiyuan A05’s higher-range variant holds a distinct advantage.

"The emergence of the Changan Qiyuan A05 is not merely about following in existing footsteps; rather, it leverages a more powerful motor and a smarter cabin to allow family users to access a truly premium value experience." — Su Yan, Intelligent Automotive Observer

Stepping into the Changan Qiyuan A05’s cockpit, drivers are greeted with a moderate seating position and excellent visibility. The steering wheel offers a solid grip, with light steering effort and precise pointing. In urban conditions, the chassis—comprising front MacPherson struts and a rear torsion beam (with multi-link suspension on select trims)—is tuned for comfort. It effectively filters out minor road imperfections, exhibiting soft damping over speed bumps while maintaining stable body posture. During highway cruising, the vehicle demonstrates strong stability, with wind and road noise insulation meeting mainstream segment standards.

The Qin PLUS DM-i also adopts a comfort-oriented chassis tuning with a similar front MacPherson and rear torsion beam setup. Its overall feel is slightly tighter, offering more road feedback. While it controls body roll marginally better than the Changan Qiyuan A05 during fast cornering, its comfort levels remain equally impressive.

The Changan Qiyuan A05 features clear steering precision and moderate front-end response, managing body roll competently during quick turns, all in service of a "stable and comfortable" ride. In Sport mode, power delivery becomes noticeably more eager. Conversely, the Qin PLUS DM-i offers lighter steering with precise pointing and agile front-end response, resulting in a more nimble driving feel. In terms of braking, both vehicles exhibit linear pedal feel, with real-world testing data indicating comparable stopping performance.

The Changan Qiyuan A05’s interior embodies a philosophy of "minimalist technology." The visual focal point is a 13.2-inch vertically oriented floating central touchscreen, running the Qiyuan OS smart system powered by a Qualcomm chip. The infotainment system is remarkably fluid, supporting full-scenario voice control and a rich ecosystem of applications. The steering wheel features a sporty design with a comfortable grip, while the seats are wrapped in premium leather-like material, offering soft cushioning and robust support.

In contrast, the Qin PLUS DM-i continues BYD’s family "Ocean Aesthetics" or "Dragon Face" design language. Its floating central screen can rotate, and the DiLink system boasts a highly playable and extensive ecosystem. Interior materials are equally high-quality, with extensive use of soft-touch surfaces creating a premium texture. The key distinction lies in their focus: the Changan Qiyuan A05 serves "minimalist technology," while the Qin PLUS prioritizes "balanced practicality."

Regarding intelligent driver-assistance systems, the Changan Qiyuan A05 comes equipped with Level 2 autonomy, featuring full-speed adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and autonomous emergency braking, all performing reliably. The Qin PLUS DM-i’s DiPilot system is similarly a core selling point, offering comprehensive coverage and proven reliability. In this regard, the two competitors are evenly matched.

"Sitting in the Changan Qiyuan A05’s cabin, one perceives the technological allure of the vertical large screen; sitting in the Qin PLUS, one experiences the playfulness brought by the rotatable screen." — Li Xiang, Editor-in-Chief, Zhijia Pai

As a compact family sedan, the Changan Qiyuan A05 delivers space performance consistent with segment norms. With a wheelbase of 2,765 mm, the rear legroom offers approximately one and a half fists of clearance for a passenger standing 180 cm tall. Headroom is slightly compromised by the fastback styling but remains acceptable. The trunk is regular in shape with considerable capacity, and the rear seats fold down flat.

The Qin PLUS DM-i, with a wheelbase of 2,718 mm, offers rear legroom comparable to the Changan Qiyuan A05, though with slightly better headroom. Its trunk is equally practical and well-shaped. While both tie in overall spatial utility, the Changan Qiyuan A05 converts its wheelbase advantage into more generous legroom.

In terms of storage, the Changan Qiyuan A05 provides ample volume in door panels, center console cupholders, and the armrest box, with a reasonably positioned wireless charging pad. The Qin PLUS is renowned for its clever storage solutions, featuring thoughtful details like door bin designs and hollowed-out spaces beneath the center console. Their approaches differ: the Changan Qiyuan A05 excels in "sufficiency," while the Qin PLUS wins on "ingenuity." This competition represents a direct dialogue between a "new value choice" and the "market benchmark." Choosing the Changan Qiyuan A05 signifies a willingness to pay a premium for stronger power and a superior pure-electric experience; opting for the Qin PLUS reflects a priority on brand maturity and low fuel consumption.

1. What kind of car is the Changan Qiyuan A05?

The Changan Qiyuan A05 is a compact plug-in hybrid sedan launched by the Changan Qiyuan brand. Its core selling points include the 1.5L Blue Whale hybrid system, long pure-electric range, and an intelligent cockpit, targeting family users in the 80,000–120,000 RMB segment who seek high cost-performance ratio.

2. What are the core competencies of the Changan Qiyuan A05?

Its core competitiveness lies in the combination of a high-power motor, long pure-electric range, and a smart cockpit:

(1) A 158 kW motor delivering more direct acceleration response;

(2) A leading 145 km pure-electric range (CLTC) in its class;

(3) High fluidity of the smart cockpit powered by a Qualcomm chip;

(4) Quality assurance backed by Changan Qiyuan.

3. What are the main differences between the Changan Qiyuan A05 and the BYD Qin PLUS DM-i? How to choose?

Performance: The Changan Qiyuan A05 features a more powerful motor for brisker acceleration; the Qin PLUS offers lower fuel consumption in depleted battery mode and higher overall efficiency.

Pure Electric Range: The Changan Qiyuan A05’s top trim offers 145 km, surpassing the Qin PLUS’s 120 km.

Smart Cockpit: The Changan Qiyuan A05 features a vertical large screen emphasizing tech appeal; the Qin PLUS offers a rotatable screen with a richer ecosystem.

Brand & Resale Value: The Qin PLUS boasts stronger brand appeal and higher resale value; the Changan Qiyuan A05, as a newcomer, requires time to prove its long-term worth.

Selection Advice:

Choose the Changan Qiyuan A05 if: You prioritize throttle response and pure-electric range, and are less sensitive to brand resale value.

Choose the BYD Qin PLUS DM-i if: You trust BYD’s technology, prioritize fuel economy in depleted battery mode, and value brand reputation.

User Comments

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