The BYD F3 is a compact saloon produced in China by BYD Auto and released in 2006. The F3 is one of the top selling compact cars in China, looking very similar in the front to the 9th generation Toyota Corolla and the Honda Fit Aria in the back. As of January 2010, the BYD F3 retails for approximately CNĄ60,000 (US$9,300) and the "on the road" price in China is approximately 20% more, for a total on-road cost of CNĄ70,000 (taxes, licensing, insurance) (US$10,850). Through all of 2009, the BYD F3 held the honors as top selling compact vehicle on mainland China.
The BYD F3 features a 4-cylinder, 1.5-liter, Mitsubishi Orion engine (4G15S) with distributor-less Bosch ignition and fuel injection. The vehicle boasts Euro 4 emissions standards. Engine output is 75KW (100 hp). Fuel economy is rated at 7L/100KM (40mpg). The transmission is a 5-speed manual - similar to that used in the Mitsubishi Colt, Galant, and Mirage vehicles. Three point safety belts, power steering, alloy wheels fitted with 195/60 R15 tires and 4-wheel ABS disk brake system are standard, as are LED tail lights and halogen headlights.
Derivatives of the BYD F3 include the BYD F3DM (dual mode, plug-in electric / petrol vehicle) and BYD F3R (hatchback version). In 2009, BYD introduced the G3 as an updated/upgraded compact class vehicle - however, the F3 will continue to be sold in domestic markets.
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