Auto manufacturers are prone to hyperbole, so when BYD proclaimed the Song Plus DM-i Jamaica’s first super plug-in hybrid the Jamaica Observer’s weekly Auto mag had to investigate.

On the surface the Song Plus DM-i is just as visually imposing as any other SUV in its class. Conservativism rules in this market segment, so the Song Plus isn’t trying to set the world on fire, just carry the brand’s Ocean X Face design language and otherwise inoffensive styling as to not turn away buyers at first glance. But the traditional-itis stops there.

Under the skin of the Song Plus DM-i is the technology that has made BYD a global leader. DM-i stands for DualMode-intelligent. Motivating the front wheels is the combination of a 195bhp 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder and an electric motor connected to an 18.3kWh blade battery. The dual power plants can work individually, combined, or assist each other, dependent on the drive mode selected. In electric only mode the Song Plus has 92km of pure electric range, which can be recharged by the gas engine during driving, or via both AC and DC fast charging up to 18kWh, a very rare feature for a plug-in hybrid. The integration is seamless, switching imperceptibly between the two.

With 1,105km displayed on the 12.3-inch LED instrument screen the test was simple. A quick Google Assistant question revealed that circumnavigating Jamaica on its main thoroughfares, with Kingston as the starting point, is a 640km affair. No problem for a vehicle with nearly double that range. For the first 80km EV mode was enforced manually with no real impact on the driving experience.

And a very good driving experience it was. The early morning start allowed the BYD to show off its puddle lamps on entry and subtle interior ambient lighting. Along with a spacious, well-designed, and built interior the technology was, dare we say it, premium. All major functions could be automated, including driving, and whatever could be power-operated was.

Should it begin to rain, the BYD will close the sunroof and all windows automatically, as an example of how far things go. Since it has to operate as an EV, cabin refinement is high, with a low noise floor and a very good stereo system to further quell any potential audible intrusions. Not even the engine can be heard under regular conditions.

Then there is the infotainment. Right out of the gate, there’s satellite navigation on its iPad-sized display. It works exceptionally well in profile mode as the screen can rotate as needed. The voice assistant not only prompts for various safety features, but can be asked to handle a chunk of the functions in the cabin providing lots of relief when driving for long distances.

Hypermiling was not even a consideration. The Song Plus was operated as would the average driver. Once the EV range was depleted the petrol engine is more than powerful enough to hold its own with its 221lb/ft of torque. It never struggled across the variety of terrain Jamaica offers, giving strong acceleration when necessary and sending power back to the battery. Hills, mountains, narrow lanes, incomplete or inept construction, gravel, moon-sized craters masquerading as potholes and modern highways, the suspension performed a satisfactory job being compliant enough for occupant comfort and driver safety.

After 10 hours and four minutes of operation, including two 45-minute breaks, the Song Plus DM-i returned to Kingston having used 34 litres of its 60-litre tank. Fuel economy maxed out at 53 miles per gallon.

Job well done, BYD.