A new Voyah Passion EVR hybrid sedan has been released on the Russian market. It is representative in size but assembled in Russia and significantly more affordable than the previous electric version. A correspondent for Autonews.ru tested the new car and noted both the strengths of the model and its features that require improvement.
The main impression is that even with an empty gas tank, the car confidently continues to move on electric power. The battery is enough for approximately 200 km on the WLTP cycle, and the total range reaches 1000 km. At the same time, the dynamics remain at a high level: two electric motors with a total power of 394 hp provide acceleration to 100 km/h in 6.1–6.3 seconds.
Under the hood is a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with a capacity of 129 hp, which is not connected to the wheels. It only serves as a generator, recharging the 43 kWh battery. This is a so-called series hybrid scheme, which receives state support in Russia.
Production of the hybrid Voyah Passion has been established in Lipetsk, where large-unit assembly is currently underway, but welding and painting of bodies are planned by the end of the year. Russian assembly has reduced the price and adapted the model to the local market.
The hybrid differs from the electric version not only technically but also externally. It has modified wheel disks, a radiator grille with a pattern of miniature Voyah logos, a retractable spoiler has disappeared, and a small "fin" has appeared on the trunk lid. The color scheme has been reduced to three options: white, black, and "black amethyst."
The interior retains its signature style: three screens in a row and a fourth for climate control. The power window buttons have become physical instead of the previous touch-sensitive ones. The interior is offered in two color schemes: black-gray and brown-gray. At the same time, expensive elements such as door closers, curtains, or genuine leather are not provided; high-quality substitutes are used.
In terms of dimensions, the Voyah Passion EVR is a representative of the business class: a length of just over 5 m, width, and space in the second row are close to the premium segment. Due to the coupe-like silhouette and proportions, the car is often compared to the BMW GT, Audi Sportback, and even the Porsche Panamera.
There is plenty of space in the back row, especially on the right side, where you can unfold the seat, extend the footrest, and control functions via a separate touch screen. Heating, ventilation, and massage are available for both passengers, but the climate system is now two-zone (previously four-zone).
In motion, the Voyah Passion EVR demonstrates a smooth, soft start. Acceleration after a short pause becomes rapid, and the operation of the gasoline engine is almost inaudible. The maximum speed is limited to 200 km/h. At the same time, the noise insulation is top-notch; it is quiet in the cabin even on the highway.
The air suspension allows you to change the ground clearance in the range of up to 65 mm. At the same time, the car maintains a smooth ride, and the Magic Carpet system scans the road and adjusts the suspension stiffness. In sport mode, the body lowers, and the car becomes more assembled and responsive.
The average fuel consumption is stated at 6.3 l/100 km, but with active driving on the highway, it can increase to 9–10 l. The real range is about 500–600 km.
The battery supports fast charging: from 20 to 80%, it fills up in 30 minutes via the GB/T connector. The recuperation system works softer than in the Voyah Free crossover, but the internal combustion engine is more often turned on for recharging.
The trunk volume of the sedan is 410 liters, the rear seatbacks do not fold down, but there is an organizer with charging cables under the floor. There is no spare wheel.
Currently, the Voyah Passion EVR is produced in Russia using the large-unit method, but with the transition to small-unit assembly, the model will be able to qualify for participation in government procurement and taxi fleets. The hybrid is eligible for a benefit of 925 thousand rubles, which reduces the price to 4.665 million rubles.
In the future, a more affordable version with front-wheel drive is expected. The Passion EVR has few direct competitors: the Exlantix ES is more expensive and lower, and the Hongqi H9 is equipped with only a two-liter engine without a hybrid system and air suspension. In unofficial deliveries, the Zeekr 007 and Xiaomi SU7 are found, but both are fully electric.
The Voyah Passion EVR turned out to be a balanced hybrid with premium manners, impressive dynamics, and representative-class comfort. Russian assembly has made it closer to the buyer, and the combination of electric drive and a gasoline generator makes it practical for the conditions of domestic roads and infrastructure.