BYD M6 Review: A Winning Blend of Comfort, Practicality, and Family Appeal

What we like:

Well-engineered package

Affordable price point

What we dislike:

No 2-2-3 seating option for Singapore

The M6 - a rebirth of a winning formula of mid-sized MPVs?

Let’s rewind to the late 2000s—a time when Singapore’s roads brimmed with mid-sized MPVs like the Toyota Wish and Honda Stream. These family-friendly vehicles were beloved for their practicality, ample seating, and clever storage solutions, serving as the perfect companions for road trips, everyday errands, and everything in between. But as compact SUVs like the Honda Vezel captured hearts, these trusty MPVs slowly disappeared from the limelight. Today, the BYD M6 offers a modern rebirth of that winning formula, blending familiar practicality with eco-friendly sensibility for a new generation of families.

Design & Presence: Familiar Yet Fresh

I find the M6’s design aesthetic really attractive—not for any chiselled, sharp angles, but for the fact that BYD didn’t try too hard with this one. They’ve opted for something more neutral, cohesive, and easier on the eyes, almost like a subtle nod to the timeless appeal of the Toyota Wish. And yet, when compared next to its predecessor, the E6, the M6 offers a sharper, sleeker and more athletic profile. For drivers who remember and cherished the 7-seater MPVs of the early to late 2000s, the M6 feels like a contemporary tribute to a winning formula. It’s nostalgic without feeling dated, functional without being boring—a tricky balance that BYD appears to have nailed.

Interior: A Lovely Place to Be In

To be honest, I didn’t pay much heed to the interior when I first stepped inside during a press trip to Changsha, China, as I was more preoccupied with seeking refuge from the sweltering 40-degree heat. And, take my word for it, the air conditioning in this vehicle is rock solid—properly cold and robust enough to dissipate cool air via vents on all 3 passenger rows.

I have to say that I am simply impressed by the quality of materials and attention to detail, after getting a chance to look at it closer on our local test drive. Mocha brown leather upholstery, detailed stitching, and thoughtfully crafted touchpoints elevate the space, lending a premium feel to the cabin. Even smaller elements, like the heavy, sturdy centre console box, signal that BYD has prioritised comfort and craftsmanship.

Unlike many vehicles jumping on the digital gauge cluster bandwagon, the M6 retains analog dials. Personally, I find this choice endearing. It may be labelled "outdated" by some, but the clear, easy-to-read dials deliver timeless simplicity—a throwback in a good way. Moreover, with a panoramic roof and various comfort features, the M6’s interior is impressively well-specified for a vehicle at this price point.

Storage space is aplenty, from the numerous compartments for knick-knacks to the adaptable third-row seats that can be folded for more cargo room. The 2-3-2 layout with a flat 2nd row floor ensures plenty of legroom and a comfortable experience for both children and adults.

Performance: Smooth and Purposeful

I was lucky enough to put the M6 through its paces on a slalom course in Changsha, and boy did it impress me from the get-go. For a vehicle in its segment, the M6 has excellent body control over hard cornering, and the braking performance is astonishingly good—almost too immediate and grabby if you ask me, which may take some getting used to.

On Singapore’s roads, it truly shines, with a suspension that effortlessly balances comfort and firmness. Noise insulation is exceptional, and the M6 remains composed whether weaving through traffic or cruising along expressways.

While the M6 may not break any speed records, its electric powertrain provides enough punch for confident urban driving. Acceleration is smooth, brisk enough, and well-paced such that your occupants will not have whiplash. A real pleasure to drive, especially in stop-and-go city traffic.

Charging & Range: Suited for Our City

The M6’s range on paper is rated at about 440 km, which is hardly anything to shout about, but more than sufficient for daily commutes, errands, and school runs. Importantly, its ability to take 115 kW of charging means that the M6 can be fully juiced within an hour from most DC charging stations in Singapore. While this vehicle may not be my top pick for cross-country trips up north, it is perfectly suited to the shorter distances and improving charging infrastructure of our island.

Practicality and Everyday Usability

Beyond numbers and features, what truly sets the BYD M6 apart is how effortlessly it fits into everyday life. Shuttling kids, hauling groceries, and navigating tight carparks is a breeze thanks to its compact size and generous seating capacity. Economical to operate, it caters to budget-conscious buyers without compromising on comfort or utility.

For me, it’s the sense of reliability and low-stress ownership that truly makes the M6 shine. You’re not worrying about every scratch or bump—it’s built to handle the rigours of daily use. BYD seems to understand that in a family-oriented vehicle, overcomplicating things with unnecessary frills can become more of a burden than a benefit.

Verdict: The Practical Choice for Today’s Families

The BYD M6 isn’t aiming for flashiness or complexity—and that’s precisely its strength. It revives what made MPVs great in the past while modernising them for today’s needs. By blending comfort, space, and simplicity with a touch of nostalgia, it’s an ideal family workhorse that keeps everyone happy without breaking the bank. For families, small businesses, or anyone who needs a versatile and economical 7-seater, the M6 is not just a vehicle— it’s a reassuring nod to the practicality and dependability we’ve long cherished.

Photos by Ng Chin Hui and James Wong

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