Forthing Friday REEV vs BYD Song Plus: Chinese Cars REEV vs PHEV UAE

Forthing Friday REEV vs BYD Song Plus: Chinese Cars REEV vs PHEV UAE

The UAE automotive market is witnessing an exciting showdown between two compelling Chinese cars: the Forthing Friday REEV at 109,900 AED and the BYD Song Plus at 124,900 AED. With a price difference of 15,000 AED more (14% more expensive), this comparison is essential for UAE buyers navigating the rapidly evolving Chinese cars landscape in 2026. The Forthing Friday REEV is a reev suv while the BYD Song Plus is a phev suv, meaning this comparison spans different vehicle philosophies and use cases. As Chinese brands capture an ever-growing share of the UAE market with competitive pricing, advanced technology, and improving quality, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each contender is critical for making an informed purchase decision. This detailed comparison examines every aspect from pricing and performance to interior quality and practicality, helping you determine which vehicle best suits your needs and budget in the UAE market.

Updated August 2026. Data verified against manufacturer specifications and Cartea UAE market data.

Quick Overview

Forthing Friday REEV

Price: 109,900 AED | Body Style: REEV SUV | Powertrain: 1.5L Range Extender + Electric Motor | Power: 204 hp (150 kW)

The Forthing Friday REEV is a reev suv from Forthing, priced at 109,900 AED in the UAE market. It features a 1.5L Range Extender + Electric Motor delivering 204 hp (150 kW), making it a compelling option in the Chinese cars segment. The Forthing Friday REEV is designed for families wanting an SUV with long electric range and no charging anxiety, offering a combination of performance, technology, and value that appeals to UAE buyers. As Chinese car brands continue to expand their presence in the Emirates, the Forthing Friday REEV stands out with its competitive pricing and comprehensive feature set that rivals more established competitors at higher price points.

Under the bonnet, the Forthing Friday REEV is powered by a 1.5L Range Extender + Electric Motor, producing 204 hp (150 kW) and 320 Nm of torque. The range is rated at 200 km EV / 1,100 km combined, providing confidence for both daily commuting and longer journeys across the UAE. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes 7.8 seconds (0-100 km/h), delivering sporty and responsive performance for its class. The FWD layout is designed for efficiency and predictable handling on UAE roads, while the 19-inch alloy complete the dynamic package. The LFP battery system offers excellent thermal stability, particularly important in the UAE's extreme heat conditions.

Inside, the Forthing Friday REEV offers a comfortable cabin with seating for 5 and a 480 L boot. Standard features include 200 km pure ev range - longer than most phevs, 1,100 km combined range with range extender, lfp battery with dc fast charging to 80% in 40 minutes, among others. Safety is comprehensive with modern driver assistance systems, and the 8 years / 160,000 km warranty provides long-term peace of mind. The Forthing Friday REEV represents strong value in the Chinese cars market, combining modern technology, practical design, and competitive pricing that makes it a smart choice for UAE buyers in 2026.

Key Highlights

• 200 km pure EV range - longer than most PHEVs
• 1,100 km combined range with range extender
• LFP battery with DC fast charging to 80% in 40 minutes
• SUV body style with 480-liter boot and higher ground clearance
• 204 hp electric motor with 320 Nm instant torque
• Panoramic sunroof, leather, and 360-degree camera
• 8-year / 160,000 km electric powertrain warranty

Best For: families wanting an SUV with long electric range and no charging anxiety

BYD Song Plus

Price: 124,900 AED | Body Style: PHEV SUV | Powertrain: 1.5L Plug-in Hybrid Electric (DM-i) | Power: 235 hp (combined)

The BYD Song Plus is a phev suv from BYD, priced at 124,900 AED in the UAE market. It features a 1.5L Plug-in Hybrid Electric (DM-i) delivering 235 hp (combined), making it a compelling option in the Chinese cars segment. The BYD Song Plus is designed for buyers wanting proven hybrid technology, maximum cargo space, and exceptional efficiency, offering a combination of performance, technology, and value that appeals to UAE buyers. As Chinese car brands continue to expand their presence in the Emirates, the BYD Song Plus stands out with its competitive pricing and comprehensive feature set that rivals more established competitors at higher price points.

Under the bonnet, the BYD Song Plus is powered by a 1.5L Plug-in Hybrid Electric (DM-i), producing 235 hp (combined) and 450 Nm (combined) of torque. The range is rated at 100 km EV / 1,000+ km combined, providing confidence for both daily commuting and longer journeys across the UAE. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes 7.9 seconds (0-100 km/h), delivering sporty and responsive performance for its class. Fuel economy is rated at 1.2 L/100 km (combined), keeping running costs manageable for daily UAE use. The FWD layout is designed for efficiency and predictable handling on UAE roads, while the 19-inch alloy complete the dynamic package. The Blade Battery (LFP) battery system offers excellent thermal stability, particularly important in the UAE's extreme heat conditions.

Inside, the BYD Song Plus offers a comfortable cabin with seating for 5 and a 574 L boot. Standard features include byd dm-i hybrid with 235 hp and 450 nm combined, 574-liter boot - largest cargo capacity in its class, blade battery with lfp chemistry for safety and longevity, among others. Safety is comprehensive with modern driver assistance systems, and the 8 years / 160,000 km warranty provides long-term peace of mind. The BYD Song Plus represents strong value in the Chinese cars market, combining modern technology, practical design, and competitive pricing that makes it a smart choice for UAE buyers in 2026.

Key Highlights

• BYD DM-i hybrid with 235 hp and 450 Nm combined
• 574-liter boot - largest cargo capacity in its class
• Blade Battery with LFP chemistry for safety and longevity
• 100 km EV range / 1,000+ km combined range
• 1.2 L/100 km fuel economy - exceptional efficiency
• Rotating touchscreen - unique BYD feature
• 8-year / 160,000 km battery and hybrid warranty

Best For: buyers wanting proven hybrid technology, maximum cargo space, and exceptional efficiency

Price & Value Comparison

The Forthing Friday REEV is priced at 109,900 AED, while the BYD Song Plus commands 124,900 AED - a difference of 15,000 AED (14% more expensive). This modest price gap places the two vehicles in similar market segments despite their comparable body styles. The Forthing Friday REEV's positioning at 109,900 AED makes it one of the more accessible options in its category, while the BYD Song Plus's 124,900 AED price tag reflects its slightly higher equipment levels.

When evaluating value for money, the Forthing Friday REEV offers an exceptionally strong proposition at 109,900 AED. Its key strengths include 200 km pure ev range - longer than most phevs and 1,100 km combined range with range extender, providing a comprehensive feature set that would typically cost significantly more from established brands. The BYD Song Plus justifies its higher price with byd dm-i hybrid with 235 hp and 450 nm combined and 574-liter boot - largest cargo capacity in its class, but the question is whether these advantages justify the 15000 AED premium. For value-conscious UAE buyers, the Forthing Friday REEV's combination of lower purchase price and competitive equipment is hard to beat.

Both vehicles come with solid warranty coverage - the Forthing Friday REEV offers 8 years / 160,000 km while the BYD Song Plus provides 8 years / 160,000 km. The matching warranty terms provide additional value and peace of mind for long-term ownership. Running costs favor the BYD Song Plus with its 1.2 L/100 km (combined) efficiency rating. Ultimately, the Forthing Friday REEV wins the value comparison, but buyers should weigh the BYD Song Plus's additional features and capabilities against the price premium to determine which offers the better overall package for their specific needs.

Performance & Powertrain

Performance is a key differentiator between these two vehicles. The Forthing Friday REEV produces 204 hp (150 kW) and 320 Nm, while the BYD Song Plus delivers 235 hp (combined) and 450 Nm (combined). The power advantage belongs to the BYD Song Plus in this comparison, and this translates to marginally different driving experiences. The Forthing Friday REEV's 0-100 km/h time of 7.8 seconds (0-100 km/h) compares to the BYD Song Plus's 7.9 seconds (0-100 km/h), meaning both vehicles offer competitive acceleration performance.

Both vehicles use FWD layouts, providing efficient and predictable handling suitable for UAE roads. The driving dynamics are tuned for comfort and efficiency, with both vehicles delivering a refined driving experience appropriate to their positioning in the Chinese cars market.

The Forthing Friday REEV's powertrain (1.5L Range Extender + Electric Motor) and the BYD Song Plus's (1.5L Plug-in Hybrid Electric (DM-i)) represent different approaches to power delivery. The hybrid/electric systems on both vehicles deliver instant torque for smooth, responsive acceleration from a standstill. Range and efficiency is another key consideration. The Forthing Friday REEV's 200 km EV / 1,100 km combined compares to the BYD Song Plus's 100 km EV / 1,000+ km combined, giving the Forthing Friday REEV a significant range advantage for long-distance UAE driving. For daily UAE driving, both vehicles provide adequate performance, with the choice coming down to driving style preferences and specific use cases.

Interior & Technology

The interior comparison between the Forthing Friday REEV and BYD Song Plus reveals distinct approaches to cabin design and technology. The Forthing Friday REEV offers a cabin with lfp battery with dc fast charging to 80% in 40 minutes and suv body style with 480-liter boot and higher ground clearance, creating a modern and well-equipped environment. The BYD Song Plus counters with blade battery with lfp chemistry for safety and longevity and 100 km ev range / 1,000+ km combined range, providing its own set of compelling interior features. Both vehicles feature large touchscreen infotainment systems, digital instrument clusters, and connected car technology that rival more expensive offerings from established brands in the UAE market.

The BYD Song Plus's higher price point is reflected in slightly upgraded materials, with better quality plastics and more refined finishes throughout. The Forthing Friday REEV's cabin is functional and well-built but uses more modest materials, which is consistent with its more accessible price point. However, the Forthing Friday REEV compensates with an impressive equipment list that includes features typically reserved for more expensive vehicles.

Technology is a strong point for both vehicles, as Chinese car brands increasingly lead in digital features and connectivity. The Forthing Friday REEV comes equipped with 204 hp electric motor with 320 nm instant torque, panoramic sunroof, leather, and 360-degree camera, while the BYD Song Plus offers 1.2 l/100 km fuel economy - exceptional efficiency, rotating touchscreen - unique byd feature. Both vehicles include comprehensive safety features, advanced driver assistance systems, and modern infotainment with smartphone integration. The choice between them on interior grounds comes down to personal preference for design language and specific feature priorities rather than a clear quality advantage for either vehicle.

Practicality & Boot Space

Practicality is where the Forthing Friday REEV and BYD Song Plus may diverge significantly based on their body styles and configurations. The Forthing Friday REEV is a reev suv with 5 seats and a 480 L boot, while the BYD Song Plus is a phev suv with 5 seats and a 574 L boot. The both vehicles offer similar seating capacity in this comparison, which is a crucial factor for larger UAE families.

Boot space is another key practical consideration. The Forthing Friday REEV's 480 L boot compares to the BYD Song Plus's 574 L boot. The BYD Song Plus offers more cargo capacity, which is valuable for family trips, grocery shopping, and daily errands. For UAE families, boot space is a daily practicality concern, and both vehicles provide adequate to generous cargo room for their segments. The SUV body style also provides practical benefits such as higher ground clearance for UAE speed bumps and easier ingress and egress for children and elderly passengers.

Both vehicles are designed for everyday UAE practicality, with features that suit the local driving environment. The Forthing Friday REEV's FWD and the BYD Song Plus's FWD layouts are both suitable for UAE road conditions. Climate control is essential in the UAE, and both vehicles come equipped with effective air conditioning systems. The 8 years / 160,000 km warranty on the Forthing Friday REEV and 8 years / 160,000 km on the BYD Song Plus provide long-term practical peace of mind. The Forthing Friday REEV's 200 km EV / 1,100 km combined range provides excellent long-distance practicality, compared to the BYD Song Plus's 100 km EV / 1,000+ km combined. Both vehicles are practical choices for UAE families, with the decision coming down to specific needs around seating, boot space, and driving range.

Pros & Cons

Forthing Friday REEV - Pros

• 200 km pure EV range exceeds most PHEV competitors
• SUV practicality with 480 L boot and raised ride height
• LFP battery ideal for UAE climate with fast DC charging
• 1,100 km combined range for unlimited long-distance travel
• 8-year / 160,000 km warranty on electric powertrain

Forthing Friday REEV - Cons

• FWD only, no AWD option for the SUV body style
• Range extender engine adds weight compared to pure EVs
• Brand awareness still developing in the UAE

BYD Song Plus - Pros

• BYD's proven DM-i technology with global reliability record
• 574 L boot is the largest in the comparison
• Blade Battery offers superior safety and thermal stability
• 1.2 L/100 km fuel economy is exceptional for an SUV
• 8-year / 160,000 km warranty on battery and hybrid system

BYD Song Plus - Cons

• 124,900 AED is 15,000 AED more than Forthing Friday REEV
• FWD only, no AWD option available
• 5-seater only, no 7-seat configuration

Full Specification Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

Which vehicle offers better value for money in the UAE?

The Forthing Friday REEV offers better value at 109,900 AED versus the BYD Song Plus's 124,900 AED. The 15,000 AED price difference buys the BYD Song Plus's byd dm-i hybrid with 235 hp and 450 nm combined and 574-liter boot - largest cargo capacity in its class, but for most UAE buyers, the Forthing Friday REEV's combination of 200 km pure ev range - longer than most phevs and competitive pricing makes it the stronger value proposition. The Forthing Friday REEV also matches or exceeds the BYD Song Plus in key areas like warranty coverage (8 years / 160,000 km) and practical features, making it the recommended choice for value-focused buyers.

Which model has better performance and driving dynamics?

The BYD Song Plus has a power advantage with 235 hp (combined) versus the Forthing Friday REEV's 204 hp (150 kW), delivering quicker acceleration (7.9 seconds (0-100 km/h) vs 7.8 seconds (0-100 km/h)). The BYD Song Plus's FWD layout also prioritizes efficiency. However, the Forthing Friday REEV's 204 hp (150 kW) and 320 Nm are more than adequate for daily UAE driving, and the performance difference is noticeable but not transformative in typical urban and highway conditions.

Which is more practical for daily family use in the UAE?

Practicality depends on your family size and needs. The Forthing Friday REEV offers 5 seats and 480 L boot space, while the BYD Song Plus provides 5 seats and 574 L boot. Both vehicles are suitable for families of up to 5. Both vehicles include climate control, modern safety features, and comfortable seating suitable for the UAE climate and driving conditions.

Which model has a better warranty and after-sales support?

The Forthing Friday REEV offers a 8 years / 160,000 km warranty, while the BYD Song Plus provides 8 years / 160,000 km. Both vehicles offer similar warranty coverage. This warranty protection is particularly important for Chinese cars in the UAE, where long-term reliability and parts availability are key concerns for buyers. Both brands are expanding their UAE dealer networks and service centers to support growing customer bases.

Should I buy the Forthing Friday REEV or the BYD Song Plus?

Choose the Forthing Friday REEV if you prioritize value, competitive features, and lower purchase price - it is the recommended choice for most UAE buyers. Choose the BYD Song Plus if you want byd dm-i hybrid with 235 hp and 450 nm combined, 574-liter boot - largest cargo capacity in its class, and are willing to pay 15,000 AED more for these advantages. The Forthing Friday REEV wins on value and overall practicality, while the BYD Song Plus offers incremental improvements that may or may not justify the price difference. For the majority of UAE buyers, the Forthing Friday REEV's value proposition makes it the smarter choice.

Final Verdict

The comparison between the Forthing Friday REEV and BYD Song Plus highlights the diversity and competitiveness of the Chinese cars market in the UAE. The Forthing Friday REEV, at 109,900 AED, emerges as the stronger overall value proposition, offering 200 km pure ev range - longer than most phevs and 1,100 km combined range with range extender at a price point that undercuts the BYD Song Plus by 15,000 AED. The Forthing Friday REEV's 8 years / 160,000 km warranty and comprehensive equipment list make it an excellent choice for the majority of UAE buyers.

The BYD Song Plus, at 124,900 AED, is the superior vehicle in absolute terms, with byd dm-i hybrid with 235 hp and 450 nm combined and 574-liter boot - largest cargo capacity in its class justifying its higher price for buyers who prioritize these specific attributes. The BYD Song Plus's 235 hp (combined) and FWD layout provide refined and efficient performance, and its additional features and higher equipment levels have genuine value for the right buyer.

Ultimately, the Forthing Friday REEV is the recommended choice for most UAE buyers seeking the best balance of value, features, and practicality in the Chinese cars market. It delivers 85-90% of the BYD Song Plus's capability at a significantly lower price, making it the smarter financial decision. The BYD Song Plus is the right choice only for buyers who specifically need its unique advantages - such as additional features - and for whom the 15,000 AED premium is not a decisive factor. Both vehicles represent the excellent value and improving quality that define Chinese cars in the UAE in 2026, and either would serve its owner well for years to come.