The Dawn of the Dongfeng M-Hero M817: A High Performance SUV at an Affordable Price
The Dongfeng M-Hero M817 has made an impressive debut in the Chinese market, instantly catching the attention of car enthusiasts. In less than 24 hours, the SUV amassed nearly 10,000 refundable deposits, highlighting its immense popularity. The robust 4×4 design, coupled with a hybrid powertrain that delivers a staggering 912 horsepower and 1,280 Nm of torque, makes it a force to be reckoned with.
Performance and Pricing
The M817’s powerful specs enable it to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h (62mph) in a mere 4.2 seconds. Despite its power, it can sustain an impressive 200 km (124mph) of pure electric range with a single charge. Priced at around 329,900 Yuan (~$46,000), this high-performance SUV comes at a price that’s hard to resist. It’s no surprise that so many eager customers have already placed deposits.
Design and Specifications
Distinctive in appearance, the M-Hero M817 stands out from the typical SUVs on the road. Dongfeng offers it in two variants: the sleek “City Edition” with hidden door handles and low-drag wheels, and the rugged “Off-Road Edition” sporting exposed hinges, beadlock wheels, and a robust 12,500-pound electric winch. Measuring 5,100 mm in length, 1,998 mm in width, and 1,899 mm in height, the M817 is a substantial vehicle, although slightly smaller than Dongfeng’s larger M-Hero 917 model.
Despite its size, the M817 boasts impressive off-road geometry, including a 33-degree approach angle, a 34-degree departure angle, and 335 mm of ground clearance, which can increase to 385 mm with air suspension. Such a combination of bold aesthetics and genuine off-road capabilities is uncommon in modern SUVs.
The Futuristic Interior
The interior of the M817 is reminiscent of a sci-fi cockpit, featuring a 15.6-inch curved touchscreen that runs Huawei’s new HarmonyOS 5.0 infotainment system. The cabin incorporates a watch-style rotary knob and aviation-inspired toggle switches, adding to the high-tech ambiance.
Convenience and Safety
Loaded with 13 power outlets, including an external 6 kW “power discharge” socket, and dual 50W wireless phone chargers, the M817 is equipped for convenience. For safety, it features Huawei’s Qiankun ADS 4.0 driver-assist system, capable of automatic parking and highway navigation assistance.
Powertrain and Performance
The M817 is built on a dual-architecture platform that combines Dongfeng’s off-road EV chassis with Huawei’s “Tianyuan” hybrid system. Available as a plug-in hybrid or an extended-range EV, it uses a turbocharged 1.5-liter petrol engine as a range extender. In the premier PHEV model, this engine powers a front and rear electric motor, delivering a whopping 680 kW (912 hp) and 1,280 Nm of torque.
This immense power enables the M817 to reach 100 km/h (62mph) in just 4.2 seconds. Equipped with a specialized CATL battery, it can cover around 200 km on electric power alone and exceed a total range of 1,000 km, making it a true electric-first off-roader.
Potential Global Reach
While it’s unlikely that the M817 will make its way to the US, Europe, or Africa, it may not remain exclusive to China. Dongfeng is reportedly planning both left- and right-hand-drive versions, potentially allowing the M817 to reach overseas markets that permit it. Regardless of where it ends up, the M-Hero M817 has clearly demonstrated the capacity of Chinese automakers to deliver supercar-like performance in a durable SUV at a mainstream price.
