MHERO 817 Review: Chinese Off-Road Beast Tested & Priced | ФАКТИ.БГ

The Bulgarian automotive market has a new contender and it’s arriving with a statement. Dongfeng’s MHERO 817, a plug-in hybrid 4×4, isn’t easing into the premium off-road segment – it’s attempting a full-scale takeover. The vehicle debuted with an actual off-road test in Sapareva Banya, a departure from the typical static premiere, according to reporting from Fakti.bg here.

The MHERO 817 is positioned as a direct challenge to established luxury off-road brands. Initial pricing starts at €63,000 (with VAT), available in two trim levels. The launch isn’t just about specifications; it’s about demonstrating capability. Testers described the vehicle as a “technological predator” from a futuristic action movie, emphasizing its aggressive design and advanced technology. The vehicle has already generated significant buzz in China, with 10,000 orders reportedly placed quickly, and now aims to replicate that success in Bulgaria and beyond.

Exterior Design: A Bold Statement

The MHERO 817’s exterior is undeniably striking. With a length of 5.1 meters and a width of nearly two meters, it commands attention. The design prioritizes off-road dominance, and two versions are offered: one geared specifically for challenging terrain and a more refined, urban-focused option. The primary difference lies in the front grille and equipment levels. The off-road version, designated E0, features Beadlock wheels and protective elements designed to withstand the rigors of the trail.

Ground clearance is a key feature, reaching up to 333mm with the adaptive air suspension on higher-end models. Approach angles of 30 degrees suggest a capability to tackle steep inclines that would defeat many conventional SUVs. The massive front grille and distinctive LED headlights contribute to a robotic, imposing aesthetic. A more polished “urban” version, the E1+, includes a panoramic roof and rear-wheel steering, enhancing maneuverability despite the vehicle’s size.

Interior: Aviation-Inspired Luxury

Stepping inside the MHERO 817 reveals a cabin that blends ruggedness with luxury. The interior draws inspiration from a modern fighter jet cockpit, featuring unique switches and a gear selector resembling a throttle. Materials include natural leather, fine suede, and solid accents, creating a sense of durability and precision.

Technology is central to the experience, powered by Huawei’s HarmonySpace 5 system managing a 15.6-inch central display. Seats offer 12-way adjustment, ventilation, and massage functions, while an 18-speaker Dynaudio sound system transforms the cabin into a concert hall. A 5-liter refrigerator in the console adds a touch of unexpected convenience. The spacious interior offers 828 liters of cargo space. A head-up display and digital rearview mirror enhance driver awareness, though the digital rearview mirror’s clarity was noted as a minor drawback, offset by large side mirrors.

Powertrain and Performance: Power and Intelligence

Under the hood, the MHERO 817 combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with powerful electric motors in a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) configuration. This setup delivers a combined system output of 677 horsepower and 848 Nm of torque – figures more commonly associated with sports cars. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes just 5.2 seconds.

The vehicle’s capabilities extend beyond raw power. The “Crab Walk” mode, allowing diagonal movement by steering the rear wheels, is particularly useful for navigating tight spaces and challenging terrain. Nine driving modes, including settings for snow, sand, and water, optimize performance for various conditions. The intelligent all-wheel-drive (AWD) system precisely distributes torque for maximum traction. The MHERO 817 can wade through water up to 900mm deep. The CATL battery provides a substantial electric range and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, allowing the vehicle to power external devices with up to 6kW of output. A total range exceeding 1100 km addresses range anxiety concerns.

Safety and Technology: Huawei’s Contribution

Safety features are comprehensive, with Huawei’s Qiankun ADS 4.0 system utilizing 27 sensors, including lidar and 4D radar. This system enables automatic emergency braking at speeds up to 130 km/h. Locking differentials further enhance off-road control.

Pricing and Market Positioning

The MHERO 817 is available in Bulgaria starting at €63,000 (with VAT) for the base E0 trim. The more luxurious version starts at €74,000. This pricing positions the MHERO 817 competitively within the premium off-road segment, challenging established players from Germany and Japan. The vehicle comes with a 7-year/150,000 km warranty. China Motor, the brand’s importer, is currently accepting orders, with initial deliveries expected shortly. Standartnews.com reported on the launch event.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths: Exceptional off-road capability with innovative Crab Walk mode; luxurious and high-tech interior with Huawei components; impressive system power and long combined range; competitive price-to-value ratio.

Weaknesses: Large dimensions can be challenging in urban environments; the complexity of the hybrid system requires access to electricity; the 1.5-liter engine can feel strained when the electric motors aren’t fully engaged; weight is noticeable during spirited driving on asphalt.

The MHERO 817’s arrival signals a shift in the Bulgarian automotive landscape. Whether it can truly “rearrange the cards” in the premium off-road segment remains to be seen, but its combination of power, technology, and competitive pricing makes it a vehicle to watch. The initial response in China, with 10,000 orders, suggests a strong appetite for this new contender. Potential buyers can explore further details and specifications on the Dongfeng Motor website via this YouTube review.