Road Test: 2025 Soueast S06 DM

Soueast may not be a household name just yet, but the Chinese brand is making a confident entry into the Middle East market, starting with the Soueast S06 DM, a plug-in hybrid SUV that offers impressive range, high-end features, and strong value for money. Making its global debut in the UAE, the S06 DM is positioned as a smart, stylish alternative in the competitive compact hybrid SUV segment — and priced at just AED 119,000, it’s already turning heads.

Bold, Upscale Styling

From the outside, the Soueast S06 DM presents a refined, modern design that stands out. The front fascia features intelligent LED headlights, a sculpted hood, and a large grille with integrated air vents, combining aerodynamic design with bold styling.

At 4.6 metres in length, the SUV sits confidently on 20-inch alloy wheels, and its sloping roofline gives it a sporty profile. The side mirrors feature LED indicators, while the rear design is capped off with a full-width intelligent LED light bar and hidden dual exhausts integrated into the intricately designed rear bumper.

Tech-Loaded Interior

Step inside, and the S06 DM continues to impress. The cabin is centred around a 15.6-inch 2K infotainment touchscreen powered by a Qualcomm chip, alongside a 9.2-inch digital instrument cluster. The interface is smooth and responsive, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and voice-controlled functions, including sunroof operation.

Materials are premium throughout the cabin, with leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and dual-zone automatic climate control featuring CN95-grade air filtration. The AC can be controlled via physical buttons or the touchscreen — a thoughtful touch for driver preference.

Comfort and Convenience

Both front seats are electrically adjustable — the driver’s seat features a 6-way adjustment, while the passenger’s seat has a 4-way adjustment — and come with ventilation and memory settings. A wireless fast charging pad and a 9-speaker Sony audio system add to the upscale experience.

Rear passengers are treated to ample legroom, rear AC vents, a centre armrest with cupholders, and a Type-A charging port. One of the standout features is the multi-purpose cooled/heated storage box within the centre armrest, ideal for long road trips.

Storage throughout the cabin is generous, with 32 compartments strategically placed, ensuring maximum practicality for families and everyday use.

The S06 DM includes a power-operated tailgate that can also be controlled from the infotainment screen. The boot offers ample space for weekend getaways or grocery runs, reinforcing the car’s family-friendly nature.

Soueast S06 Hybrid Power and Long-Range Efficiency

The key highlight of the S06 DM is its plug-in hybrid drivetrain. Soueast claims a combined driving range of 1000 km on a full charge and tank. While detailed specs on the electric range and fuel economy haven’t been disclosed yet, the range figure alone puts it in rare company for this price bracket.

Soueast S06 Safety and Warranty

The S06 DM comes equipped with a comprehensive list of safety features, including multiple airbags, traction control, electronic stability control, and driver assistance technologies.

On the ownership front, it’s backed by a 10-year warranty and a 3-year service package, boosting confidence in a relatively new brand.

Verdict

The 2025 Soueast S06 DM marks an impressive debut for the brand in the UAE. With its standout design, tech-forward interior, generous features, and a 1,000 km hybrid range — all for AED 119,000 — it undercuts many established rivals without feeling like a compromise.

The S06 DM proves that hybrid ownership can now be both premium and practical. Soueast may be new to the region, but with offerings like this, it won’t stay under the radar for long.