Dongfeng M-hero M817 Debuts with HarmonyOS Cockpit 5 and Huawei ADS 4 — From $44,500

Overview: A tech-forward large off-roader

Dongfeng’s new flagship off-road SUV, the M-hero M817, combines rugged capability with high-end smart-car technology. Launched in two trims, priced at 319,900 yuan (about 44,500 USD) and 349,900 yuan (about 48,600 USD), the M817 integrates Huawei’s full-stack intelligent solutions—Qiankun Huawei ADS 4 driver assistance, HarmonyOS Cockpit 5, and the Tianyuan vehicle architecture—bringing advanced driver aids and a connected in-car experience to the large SUV segment.

Design: Bold family styling with off-road details

The M817 adopts a bold, family-styled silhouette and a trendy dual-face front end. Buyers can choose between a split off-road bumper or a body-colour urban bumper to match intended use. The headlamps are visually integrated into the hood lines for a cohesive front profile, while twin LED spotlights on the roof edges enhance illumination for nighttime off-roading. Along the flank, muscular proportions are emphasised by a two-stage waistline and an A-pillar angle tuned to reduce aerodynamic drag. The model supports common aftermarket and off-road accessories such as side window racks and access ladders, making it an attractive choice for overland and adventure enthusiasts.

Dimensions and interior utility

Exterior & packaging: The body measures 5100 mm long, 1998 mm wide, and either 1919 mm tall (air-spring version) or 1899 mm tall (coil-spring version), riding on a 3005 mm wheelbase. The cabin is laid out as a 2+3 five-seat configuration focused on comfort and practicality.

Versatile cargo and camping utility: The M817 supports multiple sleeping configurations—folding the front seats forward (with headrests removed) creates a 1.7 m in-vehicle sleeping area, while folding the rear seats flat with the cargo floor yields a 2.1 m sleeping platform suitable for weekend camping. Cabin materials include 91.2% soft-touch coverage across a total treated area of 32 m².

Cockpit and tech: HarmonyOS Cockpit 5 and connectivity

The interior emphasizes straight, horizontal and vertical lines with metal trim and a symmetric central axis. A 15.6-inch central touchscreen runs HarmonyOS Cockpit 5, enabling app and smartphone mirroring for seamless continuity of HarmonyOS apps and in-car ecosystems. Below the screen are nine physical function keys for quick access, while a roof console houses six flight-style toggles integrated with the dome light; these AUX switches map to reserved power ports to simplify aftermarket customization and accessory installation.

Luxury appointments include Nappa leather seats with massage, heating and ventilation, plus a dedicated 5.05 L cooled/warmer box under the front centre armrest with its own compressor—ideal for long journeys and overland travel.

Powertrain and performance

The M817 uses a plug-in hybrid architecture centered on a 1.5T internal combustion engine paired with two electric drive motors. The petrol engine has a reported maximum net output of 137 kW (184 hp), while the two motors deliver peak outputs of 200 kW (268 hp) and 205 kW (275 hp) respectively, providing strong combined performance and flexible driving modes for both on-road cruising and off-road demands.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the SUV supports 6 kW external power output (vehicle-to-load) to run tools, campsite appliances, or emergency equipment. Buyers can opt for either an air-spring suspension with electronic damping control (CDC), rear-wheel steering and 150 mm adjustable travel, or a traditional coil-spring setup. The air-spring variant features a garage mode that lowers chassis ride height by 45 mm—reducing overall height to 1874 mm—making it easier to access tight underground parking spaces.

Market positioning and comparisons

The M-hero M817 targets buyers who want a blend of robust off-road capability, comfortable long-distance touring, and cutting-edge intelligent driving and infotainment technology. With Huawei ADS 4 and HarmonyOS Cockpit 5 onboard, it competes with other large, tech-focused SUVs by offering a richer connected experience and strong utility features like V2L (vehicle-to-load) capability and configurable auxiliary switches. Compared to more traditional large SUVs, the M817’s plug-in hybrid powertrain and extensive smart features position it as a modern alternative for tech-savvy adventurers and family buyers who value both capability and connectivity.

Summary specification highlights

• Price: 319,900–349,900 yuan (~44,500–48,600 USD)
• Length × Width × Height: 5100 × 1998 × 1919/1899 mm
• Wheelbase: 3005 mm
• Seating: 2+3 five-seat layout; flexible sleeping configurations (1.7 m / 2.1 m)
• Infotainment: 15.6-inch screen with HarmonyOS Cockpit 5; app mirroring
• Driver assistance: Huawei ADS 4 (Qiankun full-stack)
• Powertrain: 1.5T engine (137 kW) + two electric motors (200 kW & 205 kW)
• V2L: 6 kW external power output
• Suspension: Air-spring with CDC & rear-wheel steering or coil-spring option