Chinese carmakers are rapidly evolving with new products, especially with the range-extender EVs. One such new car launch is the Dongfeng M-Hero M817, which offers 912 bhp power and more than 1,000 km range. Check out its complete details below.

Before you scroll to read more, make sure you check the best certified pre-owned SUV cars in the UAE with CARS24.

Also read: 2026 Lexus LC 500 debuts with ‘Inspiration Series’

Dongfeng M-Hero M817: Design and dimensions

Dongfeng is offering the M-Hero M817 in two variants: City Edition (2WD) and Off-Road Edition (4WD). Both variants are equipped with unique styling bits made to serve a purpose.

The overall design of the M817 is massive, and its road presence is impeccable. At 5100X1998X1899mm (l/w/h), its dimensions are huge as well.

The front fascia features sharp styling cues, including the sleek LED lights, and the unique bumper design that varies for both variants.

The rear profile features a sleek vertical LED taillight and a tailgate-mounted spare wheel with a rectangular cover. The Off-Road Edition gets the special bumpers and large wheel arches for better utility on trails.

Additionally, the Off-Road Edition is fitted with an electric winch with 12,500 pounds capacity and beadlock tyres with more grip.

Dongfeng M-Hero M817: Interiors and features

On the inside, the M817 SUV gets plush interiors and advanced luxury features draped in premium leather upholstery.

The M817 is a 5-seater SUV, but it offers a stupendous rear space to the second-row and third-row passengers.

Some of the key features of the M817 are as follows:

• 15.6-inch floating infotainment screen
• Aviation-inspired control switches
• 13 power outlets with a 6 kW vehicle-to-load charging
• 50W air-cooled wireless charging pads
• Electric seats with ventilation/heating and memory function
• Panoramic sunroof
• Ambient lighting
• Digital IRVM
• Level 2 ADAS from Huawei with intelligent parking

Dongfeng M-Hero M817: Engine and specification

Powering the M817 is a 1.5-litre, turbo-petrol extended range generator, which charges the electric motors, further propelling the wheels. It also gets a PHEV motor.

On the 4X4 Off-Road Edition, the combined power output is a whopping 912 bhp and 1,280 Nm of torque. It can sprint 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds, while offering an EV-only range of up to 200 km.

Meanwhile, the 2WD City Edition gets a PHEV 1.5L engine with 687 bhp power and 848 Nm of torque. It can do 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds, while the pure EV range stands at 140 km.

With the combination of the EREV (engine+battery), the M817 can offer a total range upwards of 1,000 km.

The M817 Off-Road Edition gets 33 degrees of approach angle and 34 degrees of departure angle. Meanwhile, its ground clearance stands at 335 mm, which can be raised up to 385 mm via an air suspension.

Also read: Ford Bronco EV debuts with 650 km range, but only for China!

Dongfeng M-Hero M817: UAE launch and price

Dongfeng has launched the new M-Hero M817 in China for now. In fact, it sold more than 10,000 units within the first day of price reveal in China.

However, it is being produced with the LHD and RHD configurations, which hint at a global launch soon.

Considering that the UAE is Dongfeng’s major priority, we suspect the M817 will launch in the Middle East by the end of this year.

The M817 is expected to be positioned above the Dongfeng 007 EREV, and the expected price is AED 160,000.

Our verdict

The new Dongfeng M-Hero M817 offers a strong combination of butch looks, luxurious interiors, and an efficient yet powerful powertrain. It has managed to sell 10,000 units within the first day of launch in China, showing its value-for-money packaging.