Song Plus DM-i I vs Sonet I: which is better?
BYD Song Plus DM-i I (2021–present) vs Kia Sonet I (2020–present): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
BYD Song Plus DM-i I
Kia Sonet ISpecifications
| BYD Song Plus DM-i I | Kia Sonet I | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2021–present | 2020–present |
| Body | crossover SUV | crossover SUV |
| Fuel | plug-in hybrid (PHEV) | petrol |
| Engines | 1.5 + electric motor | 1.5 |
| Power, up to | 110 hp | 115 hp |
| Torque, up to | 135 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Gearbox | hybrid (DHT) | CVT |
| Drive | front-wheel drive | front-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 705 mm | 3 995 mm |
| Width | 1 890 mm | 1 790 mm |
| Height | 1 680 mm | 1 610 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 765 mm | 2 500 mm |
| Fuel tank | — | 45 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 8 650 ₸ | ≈ 8 650 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
BYD Song Plus DM-i I
Pros
- Hybrid powertrains (Chery CSH, BYD DM-i, Li Auto): new technology, reliability data still being gathered
- Local assembly: Uzbekistan
- Currently in production — can be bought new
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Hybrid powertrains (Chery CSH, BYD DM-i, Li Auto): new, little reliability data so far
- Hybrid transmission (DHT): new, little reliability data so far
- Front-wheel drive only
- Modest power: up to 110 hp
Engine (Hybrid powertrains (Chery CSH, BYD DM-i, Li Auto)): the tech is new, reliability statistics are still being gathered.
Gearbox (Hybrid transmission (DHT)): the technology is new, statistics are still being gathered.
Kia Sonet I
Pros
- Local assembly: Uzbekistan
- Currently in production — can be bought new
Cons
- Hyundai IVT CVT gearbox: some complaints of jerking when pulling away
- Small tank: 45 L
- Front-wheel drive only
- Modest power: up to 115 hp
Engine (Hyundai/Kia Smartstream): new engines, few widespread problems so far.
Gearbox (Hyundai IVT CVT): the gearbox is relatively new, statistics are being gathered; there are complaints about jerks when pulling away.
Which one to choose
- Song Plus DM-i I — if you care more about: wheelbase.
- Sonet I — if you care more about: power, torque.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: Song Plus DM-i I or Sonet I?
Song Plus DM-i I: up to 110 hp, Sonet I: up to 115 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Song Plus DM-i I — about 8 650 ₸, Sonet I — about 8 650 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.