On August 17th, Dongfeng M-Hero Technology officially launched its new model, the M-Hero M817. The new vehicle is available in two variants: the Pro version priced at 319,900 yuan, and the Max version at 349,900 yuan.
It is understood that the new model is the world’s first full-stack Huawei intelligent luxury off-road SUV jointly developed by M-Hero Technology (a subsidiary of Dongfeng Motor) and Huawei. It adopts a non-load-bearing body structure and is positioned as a full-size SUV. The front face offers two design styles (urban and off-road), with an overall bold and avant-garde design language. It is equipped with Huawei Kunlun ADS 4 advanced driver assistance system and “Oriental Eagle Eye” drone system, powered by a 1.5T plug-in hybrid powertrain.
In terms of exterior design, the new model features a mecha-style aesthetic. The front face adopts a narrow trapezoidal grille paired with irregularly shaped headlight clusters on both sides, with a luminous M-Hero brand logo embedded in the center, creating a fierce visual effect with high recognition. Additionally, the new model offers two front face designs (urban and off-road) based on variants: the off-road version is equipped with a split off-road bumper connected to the subframe, while the urban version features a relatively traditional front bumper painted in the same color as the body.
On the side profile, the new model uses abundant angular lines, complemented by raised wheel arch lines, anti-scratch wheel arch guards, and a multi-spoke wheel design, further enhancing the tough off-road vibe. It also comes with traditional mechanical door handles, electric side steps, and roof racks, offering practical functionality. For exterior colors, consumers can choose from six options: Qinling Green, Yulong Silver, Mingsha Yellow, Caka Blue, Gezong Black, and Kunlun White. In terms of dimensions, the new model measures 5100/1998/1899mm in length/width/height, with a wheelbase of 3005mm. At the rear, the taillights feature a “cross” shape for high visual recognition. It also adopts a side-hinged tailgate with an external storage box, exuding a rugged appeal. The exhaust system is hidden for a clean look.
The interior layout is relatively minimalist, offering three color schemes: Yingsong Ink, Qingshan Dai, and Danxia Brown. In terms of configurations, it is equipped with a floating 10.25-inch LCD instrument cluster and a 15.6-inch central control screen, running Huawei’s HarmonySpace 5 in-vehicle system. It also features a two-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel and a column-mounted gearshift lever, delivering a strong sense of technology. For driver assistance, the new model is equipped with Huawei Kunlun ADS 4 and the “Oriental Eagle Eye” drone system, enabling functions such as highway and urban navigation-assisted driving, and providing users with a smoother and richer intelligent interaction experience, fully enhancing its smart attributes. The seating layout 采用 a 5-seat configuration.
Under the hood, the new model is powered by a plug-in hybrid system consisting of a 1.5T engine and an electric motor. The 1.5T engine delivers a maximum power of 145kW, while the system’s combined power reaches 505kW with a combined torque of 848N·m. For batteries, it is equipped with a 31.73kWh LFP battery pack, offering an NEDC pure electric range of 100km. Additionally, the new model has towing qualifications, with a maximum towing capacity of 2.5 tons.
The M-Hero brand is Dongfeng Motor’s second high-end electric vehicle brand following Voyah, launched in August 2022 and positioned as a luxury electric off-road brand with an exclusive “M” logo system. The newly launched M-Hero M817 is the third model under the M-Hero brand, following the earlier launches of the M-Hero 917 and M-Hero M800, both positioned as mid-to-full-size SUVs with prices ranging from 637,700-1,098,000 yuan and 879,000-979,000 yuan respectively.
Judging from its pricing, compared to the M-Hero 917 and M800, the more affordable M817 is likely to become a higher-volume model for the brand while further improving M-Hero’s product matrix. Based on its positioning and price, the new model will compete with rivals such as the Fangchengbao Bao 8 and Tank 700 Hi4-T after launch. Finally, what do you think of the M-Hero M817’s product strength and pricing? Feel free to leave your comments below for discussion.
