Key Points
- BYD Australia has confirmed the all-new M9 premium people mover for local showrooms in the fourth quarter of 2026.
- The M9 is BYD's 12th model for Australia, its fifth PHEV, and the brand's first electrified passenger van locally.
- It launches exclusively with a DM-i 5.0 Super Hybrid powertrain offering up to 145km of EV range and up to 850km of combined range on the WLTP cycle.
BYD Australia has confirmed the all-new M9 premium people mover will join its local lineup, with the model set to arrive in BYD showrooms across the country during the fourth quarter of 2026. The M9 takes BYD into the people-mover segment for the first time and will be sold exclusively with the brand's latest DM-i 5.0 Super Hybrid powertrain.
It is the 12th BYD model confirmed for Australia and the fifth to use a plug-in hybrid powertrain. It is also BYD's first electrified passenger van for the local market, aimed at families and fleets that need space, comfort and long-distance range.
What Is the BYD M9?
BYD describes the M9 as a comfortable, premium people mover with the latest technology and long-distance touring capability, built to meet the demands of both Australian families and fleets. It fills a gap in a local BYD lineup that has so far been built around passenger cars and SUVs.
The M9 nameplate is known as the Xia in China, where BYD launched it in early 2025 as part of the brand's Dynasty series. Zecar reported on a test vehicle being spotted in Canberra earlier this year, ahead of today's official confirmation for Australia.
BYD has expanded its Australian range steadily since entering the market, and the M9 becomes its 12th model on local sale. For a full rundown of what else is currently available, see Zecar's guide to BYD's Australian lineup.
BYD M9 Variants
The M9 range will launch with a seven-seat Premium variant, with an eight-seat Dynamic variant to follow. Both are offered in front-wheel drive only.
BYD M9 Variant Overview
Variant | Seats | Drivetrain | Battery | Availability |
M9 Premium | 7 | Front-wheel drive | 36.60kWh BYD Blade Battery | Launches Q4 2026 |
M9 Dynamic | 8 | Front-wheel drive | 20.39kWh BYD Blade Battery | To follow, date unconfirmed |
Powertrain, Range and Charging
Both variants use BYD's latest and most efficient DM-i 5.0 Super Hybrid powertrain, combining a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor. BYD says the system is designed to blend performance, efficiency and long-range capability.
The top-spec M9 Premium offers up to 145km of EV-only range and up to 850km of combined range, according to WLTP testing. BYD has not yet published separate range figures for the smaller-battery Dynamic variant. Both grades support AC and DC charging, as well as Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality.
BYD M9 Powertrain Specifications
Spec | M9 Premium | M9 Dynamic |
Powertrain | DM-i 5.0 Super Hybrid (1.5L turbo petrol + electric motor) | DM-i 5.0 Super Hybrid (1.5L turbo petrol + electric motor) |
Battery | 36.60kWh BYD Blade Battery | 20.39kWh BYD Blade Battery |
EV range (WLTP) | Up to 145km | Not yet confirmed |
Combined range (WLTP) | Up to 850km | Not yet confirmed |
Charging | AC and DC, with V2L | AC and DC, with V2L |
Size and Practicality
The BYD M9 measures 5,145mm long, 1,970mm wide and 1,805mm high, riding on a 3,045mm wheelbase. BYD says the dimensions deliver generous accommodation across all three rows.
With all seats in place, the M9 offers 470 litres of luggage capacity. It also has a 1,500kg braked towing capacity, adding to its versatility for families and fleets.
Design
BYD says the M9's exterior design draws inspiration from a traditional Chinese garden, with strong horizontal and vertical lines creating a distinctive presence. A dragon-inspired front and elongated silhouette combine for a look BYD describes as elegant and understated.
Inside, the M9 Premium variant gets heated and ventilated front seats, while second-row captain's chairs add heating, ventilation and a near zero-gravity seating position. BYD has positioned the cabin as a premium experience for every occupant, not just those up front.
Safety and Technology
BYD says safety was a key focus throughout the M9's development. High-strength steel makes up 73 per cent of the vehicle structure, which BYD says is for enhanced crash performance.
The M9 also gets up to nine airbags, a 360-degree camera system, five millimetre-wave radars, eight ultrasonic sensors and a full suite of advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) technologies.
How the BYD M9 Compares
BYD's premium sister brand, Denza, already sells a fully electric D9 people mover in Australia, which cleared ADR certification in December 2025. The M9 gives the wider BYD Group two people movers in the local market: the Denza D9 as a full battery-electric option, and the BYD M9 as a plug-in hybrid alternative with longer combined range..
Based on its size, seating layout and family and fleet focus, the M9 is likely to compete most directly with the segment-leading Kia Carnival wjich is priced from $52,070 for the base model and $78,348 for the range-topping GT0Line.
Pricing and Availability
BYD has not yet confirmed Australian pricing or the full specification list for the M9. Further details on pricing and specifications will be announced closer to the vehicle's Q4 2026 Australian launch, according to BYD Australia.
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About the author
Danny is a consultant and entrepreneur working at the cutting edge of the electric vehicle and energy transition. He is passionate about educating and helping consumers make better decisions through data.
