The U.S. SUV market will soon get an unexpected new guest, and it’s not from Europe or Detroit—this one is coming directly from China. BYD's premium brand Fang Cheng Bao is getting ready to launch the Tai 7, an audacious, boxy SUV that mixes styling cues from the Land Rover Defender, the Lexus GX, and even the Mercedes G-Class—all for around $42,000. And yes, it’s a plug-in hybrid with a respectable 422 horsepower. Sounds like a formula for trouble, right?
A Mash-Up Design That Actually Works
Let's be real—the Tai 7 sort of looks like a greatest hits record of other iconic SUVs at first glance. But looking closer, it kind of works. The upright stance and pronounced fenders scream Defender. The front end? Pure Lexus GX. And that squared-off rear bumper? Yep, straight out of the G-Wagon playbook.
But it doesn't feel like some cheap trick. It's more of a remix that carries off a rugged, premium feel, without trying to hard. Whether you're pulling up at a trailhead, or a Trader Joe's, the Tai 7 will be noticed.
A Plug-in Hybrid Powertrain with Real Muscle
The Tai 7 is more than just a pretty face—it's got power and intelligence to back it up. Power comes from a 1.5-liter turbocharged gas engine with a very punchy, 268-hp electric motor. Together, they provide 422 horsepower, which is more power than many competitors in their price range.
It is a plug-in hybrid, which means you can make short, everyday trips on electric power and have the gasoline engine kick back in whenever you require it. The top speed is a respectable, 118 mph, and it doesn't lack performance at almost 5,000 pounds.
Built for Dirt, Ready for the City
The Tai 7's built on a ladder-frame chassis—similar to a Defender or Toyota Land Cruiser—which means it has real off-road capability. But it isn't a freakishly large vehicle. At 197-inches long with a 115-inch wheelbase, it is a little shorter than a Defender 110, but that makes it easier to park and drive down tight suburban lanes.
It’s expected to have multiple drive modes, all-wheel drive, and hybrid torque vectoring for traction. Whether snow, gravel, or potholes, it'll have a setting for that.
Interior That’s Big on Tech and Space
Although official images of the cabin are yet to be released, the initial photos from previews in China indicate a wide-screen digital dashboard, available premium trim finishes, and numerous areas for clever storage. The design language incorporates a modern style with a minimalist flair - Tesla meets Toyota.
There is mention of customizable ambient lighting, smart voice control, wireless charging-and the tech that U.S. consumers expect today. I wouldn’t be shocked if BYD also incorporates a panoramic sunroof and premium audio too.
US Launch Set for Late 2025
The Tai 7 is already causing a stir in China, and BYD intends to go international with Fang Cheng Bao. It's believed the SUV will arrive in the U.S. in late 2025 for about $42,000 – a price that could be below almost all competitors of the same capability and size.
Fang Cheng Bao Tai 7 Specifications
| Feature | Details |
| Brand | Fang Cheng Bao (BYD Premium Division) |
| Model | Tai 7 |
| Powertrain | 1.5L Turbo ICE + 268-hp Electric Motor (PHEV) |
| Total Horsepower | ~422 hp |
| Top Speed | 118 mph |
| Drivetrain | AWD (Expected) |
| Battery | Lithium-ion (PHEV) |
| Length | 197 in |
| Wheelbase | 115 in |
| Weight | ~4,916 lbs |
| Wheels | 18” or 19” Alloys |
| Expected US Price | From $42,000 |
| US Launch Timeline | Late 2025 |
Why the Tai 7 Matters
The Tai 7 is more than just another flashy Chinese SUV, it's a sign of the times. With BYD soaring in growth, electrified vehicle focus and aggressive pricing, this SUV could disrupt the mainstream brands.
If it keeps its promise of luxury looks, hybrid power, real off-road capability, and a price tag under $45K, it will be a real competitor to the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe, Toyota RAV4 Prime, and dogs and entry-level trims of the Land Rover Defender.
Source(Image / Thumbnail): carscoops
