The new SUV heavyweight? Now BYD is coming for the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Mitsubishi Outlander and Subaru Forester with mega plug-in hybrid SUV that's confirmed for Australia

BYD is set to launch a new plug-in hybrid SUV in Australia, with the brand promising the family-focused offering will "excel on every level" against its rivals.

The move essentially puts models like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and Subaru Forester Hybrid on notice, with the BYD Song Plus (as it's known in international markets) measuring in at 4775mm in length, 1890mm in width and 1670mm in height, while riding on a wheelbase of 2765mm.

That makes it slightly longer and wider than the RAV4 Hybrid, with the Song Plus also equipped with what BYD calls DM-i, or Dual Motor Intelligence, technology – the brand's name for its plug-in hybrid tech.

Interestingly, the much-hyped Seal U electric SUV is yet to be confirmed for Australia, and - if it does arrive - will follow this plug-in petrol model to market.

"What I can say is that we are launching with DM-i technology, so the same as the ute," says BYD importer EV Direct's Luke Todd.

"Probably Q2 at the latest, but we're targeting Q1. It won't be a full-electric version, it will be the DM-i.

"BYD has a vehicle that doesn't just rival, but excels on every level. And that's the vehicle we're bringing to the country."

In typical BYD fashion, expect the Song Plus to be ferociously well-equipped. (International model pictured)

In overseas markets, the Song Plus pairs a 1.5-litre petrol engine (81kW and 135Nm) with an electric motor that produces 145kW. The result, says BYD, is a sprint to 100km/h in just 5.9 seconds for AWD versions, and combined fuel use of just 4.4 litres on the NEDC cycle.

Depending on the specification level, the Song Plus DM-i is equipped with an 8.3kWh or 18.3kWh 'Blade' battery, unlocking an EV driving range of between 51kms and 110kms.

"We haven't confirmed the naming of it yet," says Mr Todd. "But I can tell you we've got a very exciting vehicle that will be launched before the ute, which we think will be very, very attractive for people that want to switch across to electric.

The BYD Song Plus is slightly longer and wider than the RAV4 Hybrid. (International model pictured)

"They can switch across to electric, but they don't have to have the compromise of having any range anxiety or any concerns like that."

In typical BYD fashion, expect the Song Plus to be ferociously well-equipped, with international models fitted with a big 12.3-inch centre screen, wireless phone charging, synthetic leather trim in the cabin, ambient interior lighting, heated and cooled front seats and smart LED headlights.

The new SUV could be in Australia as soon as Q1 next year.