The BYD S6 was first introduced in 2010 at the Guangzhou Auto Show->ke1921 in China before hitting the Chinese market in 2011. The SUV->ke145 enjoyed great sales success thanks to its popular design, interior features, and five-star C-NCAP crash-test rankings. Features like its TFT gauge cluster, onboard digital TV, smart key, and remote control made it a standout among the competition.

While the S6’s design might not be the most beautiful in the world, it offers many the perks Chinese SUV buyers are looking for. Its familiar Mitsubishi-->ke58sourced engines give buyers a choice of three powerplants and three transmissions. Seating for five comes standard and the rear seats fold down, making room for more cargo.

While BYD has been trying to launch its brand in the U.S., word is still out on when, or if, a launch will occur. If it does manage to bring vehicles to the U.S., look for the company to bring an updated version of the S6 to market.

Click past the jump to read more about the BYD S6.

Exterior

To be quite honest, the S6 looks like a Lexus RX with the nose of a late 2000s Kia Sorento. Clear-lens Xenon headlights and a chrome grille brighten the front while alloy wheels dress up the sides. Around back, a chrome accent over the license plate is the only real trim piece. The sloped and curved rear glass contrasts with the squared-off bumper with black cladding.

It might not win any design awards, but the S6 does a good job of looking like an SUV.

Exterior Dimensions

Interior

Things inside are a different story. The dashboard looks more unique in its design and is actually well equipped with all sorts of electronic gadgetry. The center stack includes a touchscreen navigation system while the driver’s gauge cluster gets a main speedometer and smaller TFT gauges on either side. A multifunction steering wheel controls many of the in-dash functions while redundant controls along side the center touchscreen keeps the driver from hunting through menus while driving.

For extra cargo room, the second-row bench folds flat, giving plenty of room for hauling gear. Seating for five is available when the second row is upright.

Drivetrain

Powering the BYD S6 are three different engines: a 138-horsepower 2.0-liter, a 158-horsepower 1.5-liter turbo, and a 158-horsepower 2.4-liter. All three engines are four-cylinders but come with different transmission options. The 2.0-liter comes with a five-speed manual transmission while the 1.5-liter and 2.4-liter come with a six-speed automatic. The 2.4-liter is also available with a six-speed dual clutch unit.

Drivetrain/Specifications

Prices

BYD hasn’t released any pricing yet for a U.S.-bound S6, but we can figure it will be competitive in the entry- to mid-level crossover segment. Expect a $25,000 starting price.

Competition

Kia Sorento

Perhaps this is a case of “imitation is the sincerest form of flattery” on BYD’s part as the S6 harks back to the older Sorento models. Regardless, the Sorento offers a great choice in the midsize crossover segment with plenty of interior storage, folding second-row seats, a peppy GDI engine, and an all-around solid bang for the buck.

The Sorento’s engine is a 3.3-liter, V-6 unit that puts out 290 horsepower. For those looking to save on fuel, Kia offers the 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder that makes 191 horses. A six-speed automatic transmission delivers power to either the front wheels or all four wheels with the available all-wheel-drive.

Pricing for the Sorento starts at $24,100 and rises from there.

Lexus RX

Since BYD decided to mimic the Lexus, we’ll go ahead and list the RX 350 as one of its competitors. The RX has long been a hot seller in the premium midsize crossover segment thanks to its luxurious interior, solid engine selections, and a reputation dripping with class.

The Lexus comes powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 that makes 270 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. With a six-speed automatic backing it up, the RX gets decent fuel mileage at an EPA-estimated 18 mpg city, 25 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined.

Pricing for the more premium Lexus RX starts at $39,760 and can quickly rise to the $50,000 mark with added options.

Conclusion

The BYD S6 seems like a decent SUV with tons of electronic gadgetry to keep people both entertained and safe. The S6’s five-star C-NCAP rating is good news for Chinese buyers, but only time will tell how the S6 fairs against the stringent IIHS and NHTSA’s testing regiments. With a competitive starting price hopefully being attached, the S6 could potentially do well in the U.S. market, but only after the exterior design is addressed.