Friends familiar with Equation Leopard know that the Leopard 5 and Leopard 8 are their flagship models. These vehicles created a new market for rugged smart hybrid SUVs with a large frame. As times change, the Leopard 5 and Leopard 8 have also upgraded. Today, we will test drive the Leopard 5 Long Range version and the Leopard 8 Large Five-Seater version. Let’s see how these two cars perform.
First, let’s discuss the Leopard 5 model. The upgraded Leopard 5 long-range version will maintain the family design language. The overall appearance shows little change. It retains the classic headlights and boxy body shape. The change includes a new body color and new 18-inch and 20-inch wheels for consumers to choose from.
The interior of the Fangcheng Leopard 5 long-range version features a new color scheme. The cabin uses the DiLink 150 smart cockpit. It includes smart entry and vehicle connectivity. The model also offers BYD’s complete ecosystem. This ecosystem can expand to include a second-row pad, smart child safety seat, smart pet box, smart eye mask, and massage device. These additions enhance overall versatility.
The new car features BYD’s smart air conditioning 2.0 system. It includes smart anti-fog technology and an upgraded Dynaudio sound system. A new portable speaker, co-branded with Dynaudio, adds to the package. The car also upgrades the second-row seats from manual to electric adjustment. This enhances overall passenger comfort.
Since it is a long-range model, the vehicle’s range is impressive. The new car will feature a larger battery. This upgrade allows for an electric range of 210 km. The total range reaches 1310 km. This range meets daily commuting needs in the city. It also alleviates range anxiety during long trips.
The Fangcheng Leopard 5 Long Range version will upgrade to Huawei’s QianKun ADS 4 for driving assistance. It will provide navigation assistance in cities and on highways, along with full-scene parking assistance. The standard version will continue to use BYD’s Tian Shen Eye-C. This version will offer high-speed navigation and parking assistance.
This time, the off-road capabilities received a complete upgrade. The vehicle will upgrade to the DMO+ platform. It will feature BYD’s “full-speed road surface perception control technology.” This allows the new car to go beyond just aggressive mode. In complex terrains like sand, mud, and rocks, the vehicle will achieve full intelligent self-control. It will manage wheel speed, wheel torque, and traction. Off-road driving becomes easier and more stable.
We tested the vehicle in various off-road scenarios. We included large and small cross-axles, 25-42° slopes, log roads, gravel paths, cobblestones, potholes, and humps. We even conducted a sand breach test. This tested whether the upgraded DMO+ could handle these challenges effectively.
These features are challenging for most urban SUVs. However, for rugged SUVs like the Leopard 5 and Leopard 8, they are easy. Just switch to rock mode. There’s no need for low four. The vehicle can pass through effortlessly.
The test on the slope further demonstrated the control ability of the DMO+. Many off-road enthusiasts know to avoid stopping on sand. They also know to “speed through sand and slow down in water.” Once you start on sand, tires can easily slip or get stuck.
The upgrade to the DMO+ platform makes the Leopard 5 fearless. This system controls the torque output of each wheel. It prevents tire spin in sand. This feature enhances off-road performance. Even on steep sand slopes, the Leopard 5 Long Range Edition conquers them effortlessly.
Next, let’s look at the five-seat version of the Leopard 8. The previous Leopard 8 only offered six-seat and seven-seat options. Many fans of the Leopard felt the absence of a five-seat model. This time, they added a five-seat configuration.
This upgrade mainly affects the interior. The exterior features a new wheel design and color scheme. Other changes are minimal. Inside, the new model offers a fresh gray interior. It removes the third-row seats, enhancing trunk storage capacity.
The second-row seats offer high comfort. They feature electric adjustment. They also include leg rests. Heating and ventilation functions remain. This design meets diverse consumer needs.
The new car features an upgraded refrigerator. Previously, we accessed items through the armrest. Now, we can open the refrigerator from the back. It has an electric switch. This upgrade enhances the sense of ceremony.
In addition to these upgrades, the new car also features the DMO+ platform and Huawei’s QianKun ADS 4 for assisted driving. These changes match those of the previous Fangcheng Leopard 5 Long Range version, including off-road capabilities. We will not elaborate further on these points.
Many people say the new car changes are good. But what about old car owners? No need to worry. The brand will upgrade the new car and also provide multiple updates for the old models through OTA. First, the high-speed tire blowout assistance system comes with the old Leopard 8 model. The old Leopard 5 smart driving version can upgrade directly through OTA. The old Leopard 5 non-smart version must return to the shop for upgrades if produced before January 7, 2025. Cars produced after January 7 will follow the smart version for OTA upgrades. In terms of off-road capability, the DMO system will also upgrade via OTA. Both the old Leopard 5 and Leopard 8 can upgrade directly to the DMO+ platform through OTA. In summary, the upgrades for the Leopard 5 and Leopard 8 are modest. They improve range, off-road ability, comfort, color options, and driver assistance features. These enhancements are practical and important for both new and old car owners. What do you think of the upgraded Leopard 5 and 8? Let’s discuss!