The smallest entry in BYD’s Leopard a.k.a. FangChengBao vehicle lineup, which debuted at the Beijing Auto Show under the name “Super 3”, will go on sale in three distinct versions each aimed at its own use scenario. The production will begin later this year.
The company had previously posted images of these trim variants, but they were all wrapped in confusing colorful camo. The new photos are much more to the point.
As you can see, the BYD Leopard 3 is a rugged-looking crossover with some off-road preparation straight from the factory. The off-white version is the only one looking like it targets solely those who seldom leave the city boundaries. The black one sports more pronounced bumpers and roof rails. Both have a trapezoid box attached to the tailgate for a little extra luggage space.
The grey and green car seems the best prepared for bad roads with its grippy tires, spare wheel mount, a robust-looking bumper with what looks like reinforcements, and an expedition rack on the roof.
At the same time, BYD registered the Leopard 3 in the Ministry of Industry database. According to the patent files, the car is 4,605 mm (180 inches) long, 1,900 mm (74 in) wide and 1,720 mm (67 in) tall with 2,745 mm (107.2 in) separating the axles. The approach and departure angles are specified at 25 and 28 degrees, respectively. Wheels come in 18 and 19 inches of diameter.
While the Leopard 5 and 8 models rely on serial hybrid powertrains for propulsion, the Leopard 3 is designed as a pure electric vehicle. As such, it commands dual motors to send 422 PS (416 hp / 310 kW) to the wheels and hit 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.9 seconds.
Battery and range details are pending.
