BYD eMax 7 (facelifted e6) Old Vs New: More Than Just A Change In Name

BYD has launched the eMax 7 in India, which was previously called the e6 on our shores. It is the facelifted iteration, priced from Rs 26.9 lakh (ex-showroom). Over the pre-facelift model, the facelift brings in a bunch of cosmetic changes, a new battery pack option and a third row of seats. In this report, we have listed down the key differences and similarities of the two versions. Let’s begin:  

BYD eMax 7: Old Vs New

The facelifted version is available in two variants, while the pre-facelift was available in a single fully loaded trim. Although introductory, the starting price of the new one is significantly lower and this can be credited to the new smaller battery pack introduced. The top-spec variant carries a price bump of Rs 84,000, owing to all the updates made.

BYD eMax 7 Exterior: Old Vs New

With the facelifted version, designers at BYD have tried to give the MPV a cleaner and sleeker look. Up front, it gets a new grille which merges neatly into the LED headlights. The headlights too get minor revisions featuring new elements inside. The bumper also has been tweaked and is in line with the minimalist design approach. 

There are hardly any changes in profile. However, you get a new design for the 17-inch alloy wheels which bring a breath of fresh air to the profile. 

The rear sports new connected LED tail lights and an updated bumper which completes the overall new look of the facelifted version. These changes definitely make the eMax 7 look more modern and elegant at the same time, compared to the e6 MPV.

BYD eMax 7 Interior: Old Vs New 

Step inside and you will notice the new black and brown colour scheme for the cabin, which makes the cabin feel more rich. The layout of the dashboard has not been changed, but the steering wheel gets a new look and even the lower centre console receives some updates. 

The major change to the interior is the addition of the third row. The pre-facelift was a 5-seater, while the newly launched version can be had in 6-and 7-seater configurations. Does the extra row affect the boot space and the space in the second row? Stay tuned as we will be discussing the same in our in-depth review. 

The updated version also gets a larger 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen infotainment system instead of the 10.1-inch unit offered with the outgoing model. Apart from this, the facelifted version features a panoramic glass roof, 2 more speakers (total 6), 6 airbags as standard and level-2 ADAS features. 

Other features on board include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic climate control, powered front seats with ventilation, powered tailgate and a wireless phone charger. Safety kit includes ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, a 360-degree camera, and electronic parking brake with auto hold. 

BYD eMax 7 Powertrain: Old Vs New

The facelifted iteration brings in a new smaller battery pack option, and generates significantly more output than the pre-facelift model. There is also a marginal increase in the claimed range of the 71.8 kWh battery pack which has carried over. Here are the detailed specifications: 

With the updated electric motor, the eMax 7 accelerates from 0-100kmph in just 8.6 seconds (claimed). While the outgoing model had enough performance for regular and relaxed commuting, it wasn’t quick in any respect. This update makes the eMax 7 quicker than a few compact sedans like the VW Virtus and Skoda Slavia.

BYD eMax 7: Rivals 

The BYD eMax 7 is an electric alternative to the Maruti Suzuki Invicto and Toyota Innova Hycross.