The Skyworth HT-i is a plug-in hybrid D-segment SUV introduced by Skyworth Auto, serving as the brand's second mass-production model and its first plug-in hybrid offering, unveiled in March 2022 and officially launched on 5 September of the same year. The vehicle's biggest product highlight is the adoption of BYD's DM-i super hybrid system, making it the first Chinese domestic model to utilize BYD's hybrid powertrain technology supplied externally. As of 2026, the lineup on sale covers two PHEV powertrain options—1.5L naturally aspirated and 1.5T turbocharged—with official retail pricing ranging from RM89,800 to RM155,800.
The exterior styling of the Skyworth HT-i adopts the "Gravitational Wave Aesthetics" design language, sharing largely identical sheet metal with the all-electric Skyworth EV6, with the primary distinction found on the front fascia. Up front, it sports a large borderless grille flanked by sleek matrix LED headlamps and L-shaped chrome trim strips, delivering a clean and tech-forward aesthetic. The rear is fitted with full-width LED tail light clusters featuring the HT-i emblem beneath the right cluster for distinct model identification. In terms of dimensions, the SUV measures 4,720 mm in length, 1,908 mm in width, and 1,701 mm in height, with a 2,800 mm wheelbase, giving it a dimensional edge over compact C-segment rivals. Boot capacity stands at 467 litres in standard configuration and expands up to 1,141 litres with the rear seats folded down, forming a virtually flat load bay.
Inside, the Skyworth HT-i features a clean, symmetrical T-shaped dashboard layout. The centre console is finished with extensive wood-grain trim, complemented by a full-width air-con vent design. Higher-spec variants gain a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster alongside a 15.6-inch floating central touchscreen, paired with a rotary electronic gear selector while retaining essential physical buttons below to balance a high-tech vibe with tactile everyday usability. Seat upholstery is available in synthetic leather or a leather/suede combination depending on the trim, with selected top-spec variants further equipped with front-seat ventilation/heating, extendable seat cushions, and four-way lumbar support adjustment for enhanced comfort.
The most defining feature of the Skyworth HT-i is its BYD DM-i super hybrid powertrain, jointly calibrated by Skyworth Auto and FinDreams Powertrain (Fudi) over a 28-month development cycle rather than being a direct off-the-shelf carryover. Early 1.5L variants feature BYD's Xiaoyun dedicated hybrid 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine boasting a maximum thermal efficiency of 43.04%, developing 81 kW and 135 Nm of torque. This is paired with a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor producing 130 kW and 300 Nm, mated to the EHS electric hybrid system and an E-CVT. The 1.5L variant completes the 0-100 km/h sprint in roughly 10 seconds, delivering modest performance tailored primarily for fuel efficiency. In March 2025, the 1.5T Zhiqing Edition was added to the range, upgrading to a 1.5T turbocharged plug-in hybrid powertrain pushing out 115 kW from the engine and 160 kW from the drive motor.
In terms of electric range, early 1.5L variants were offered with 21.68 kWh and 32.76 kWh ternary lithium battery packs, delivering an NEDC-rated pure electric range of 115 km and 205 km respectively, contributing to a total combined range of up to 1,267 km on a full tank and full charge, with a depleted-battery fuel consumption as low as 5.3 L/100 km. The 2026 1.5T Chaohang Edition and Chaoxiang Edition are fitted with a 32.76 kWh ternary lithium battery, rated for a 200 km pure electric range under the CLTC cycle. The entire range supports Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) reverse charging to power outdoor appliances and camping gear. The hybrid system operates in four distinct drive modes: EV Pure Electric, HEV Series, HEV Parallel, and Direct Engine Drive, optimizing power output and energy efficiency across various driving scenarios.
Underneath, the Skyworth HT-i rides on front MacPherson struts and a rear multi-link independent suspension setup, configured exclusively with a front-wheel-drive (FWD) layout. The suspension is tuned distinctly towards ride comfort, soaking up road imperfections decently, though the rear tends to exhibit secondary rebound on undulating surfaces. The steering is light with a noticeable dead centre, offering subdued road feel at highway speeds. Coupled with a relatively high centre of gravity, body roll is fairly pronounced during cornering. Overall driving dynamics prioritize compliant cruising over dynamic engagement. Drive mode selection and Hill-start Assist Control come standard across the range, while higher trims add a 360-degree surround-view camera and front and rear parking sensors.
For in-cabin tech, the Skyworth HT-i offers a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster paired with either a 12.8-inch or 15.6-inch central infotainment touchscreen depending on the variant. Running on the SKYLINK smart in-car operating system, it supports GPS navigation, 4G connectivity, over-the-air (OTA) software updates, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and full-scenario voice commands. Higher-spec models feature a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 processor to ensure fluid user operation.
On the comfort and convenience front, a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel and a rotary gear selector are standard across the range. Mid-to-high-spec variants add Qi wireless smartphone charging, 128-colour ambient lighting, a 9-speaker Skyworth audio setup, an opening panoramic sunroof, a powered tailgate, multi-zone automatic climate control, and rear air-con vents. Seat-wise, top trims gain a powered driver's seat, seat heating/ventilation, and rear-passenger chauffeur controls ("boss key"). Bluetooth key functionality and smartphone app remote telematics come standard across all variants, allowing users to check vehicle status, manage charging, and pre-condition the climate control remotely.
In terms of active safety and driver assistance, mid-to-high-spec Skyworth HT-i variants are equipped with a Level 2 or Level 2+ ADAS suite. The package integrates Full-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Lane Centring Assist (LCA), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), and a 360-degree camera system, with selected trims also featuring automated parking assist. Entry-level models make do with basic cruise control and electronic stability control, leaving driver assistance rather sparse.
On the passive safety front, the Skyworth HT-i features a 16-ring high-tensile safety cage engineered to stringent crash standards. However, base variants are notably equipped with only dual front airbags, with certain early entry-level trims omitting Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) altogether. Higher variants step up safety with front side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. In terms of reliability, owner complaints have highlighted issues such as high-voltage traction battery faults, intermittent starting failures, recurring infotainment blackouts, and interior trim squeaks and rattles.
Market response to the Skyworth HT-i has remained subdued since its launch. Through the first three quarters of 2025, monthly sales hovered between 57 and 124 units, lingering at the bottom end of China's mid-size SUV sales charts. In August 2025, sales plunged to zero units. The model closed 2024 with 4,271 units sold, marking a sharp decline from its comparatively active momentum in 2023.
Owner feedback on the vehicle remains sharply polarized. On the positive side, buyers praise its "generous cabin space," "honest real-world range," and "compelling value for money"—the 2,800 mm wheelbase provides commendable rear legroom, the expandable boot is highly practical, and the 1,267 km theoretical range effectively eliminates range anxiety. Conversely, consumer grievances are equally pronounced: laggy infotainment with frequent display blackouts, lacklustre chassis refinement, inadequate base safety kit (dual airbags only and no ESP on certain base trims), weak brand presence, and a sparse after-sales support network remain top concerns. Furthermore, owners have reported recurring minor defects, including premature air-con compressor failures, body squeaks and rattles, and surface rust bubbling under the door paintwork.
As of 2026, within the RM100,000 to RM160,000 plug-in hybrid mid-size SUV bracket, the Skyworth HT-i contends against formidable rivals like the Haval Xiaolong MAX, Landian E5 PLUS, and BYD Song Pro DM-i; while its entry pricing is competitive, it continues to lag behind in brand equity and overall product sophistication.
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