Another China has arrived in the Czech Republic. Under normal circumstances, this news wouldn’t get anyone out of their seats, but Voyah Passion is a slightly different China. Somewhat more advanced.
Photo: Jiří Cermák
Mercedes, BMW, Volvo, Audi and DS have a new competitor. From China.
Once you switch on the standard LED rather than matrix headlights, the Voyah front line and rear lettering will light up along with them. Also note the somewhat unconventional vertical light set into the molded part. At the back, you will find one more gadget, namely an active spoiler with an adjustable lifting height.
A look at the side will reveal several elements. The relatively elegant rear silhouette of the slightly humped sedan with a three-meter wheelbase is complemented by side aerodynamic moldings lined with silver decorations. The side pull-out handles are illuminated, the front and rear overhangs are relatively short.
Perhaps the only ailment is the brakes. These are optically enlarged by the rear shields, but otherwise they are quite small discs without any more advanced cooling. A sharp brake-throttle driving style without the possibility of recuperation will be rather liquidating for them. Comparably powerful competition is ahead of the wheel size.
Photo: Jiří Cermák
The combined rear lamps are complemented by a vertical light line.
Private cinema
Inside the wide-glazed cabin with two sunroofs, you will appreciate a pleasant view outside from the driver’s seat, which is supported by two small triangular glasses in front and rear-view mirrors moved to the doors.
The dashboard is dominated by a trio of displays grouped into a 1.4-meter-long array. The interface is purely Chinese, because the tested Passion is not a finished European model, but a homologation piece (that’s why it has special F marks) on which tests are still being carried out.
Photo: Jiří Cermák
The trio of displays is 1.4 meters long.
Chinese graphics are simplistic and some animations are choppy. We assess the arrangement of the info system as rather more complex, less attractive in terms of design – especially the various settings could be a little more logically resolved. Of course, a number of functions, including online ones, do not work because it is tied to a Chinese personal account.
However, the end clientele will get full installation in English and no Chinese apps (so goodbye, karaoke) and full support for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which of course unlocks expanded options for audio, apps and navigation. Later, the online connectivity of the car as such will be put into operation in Europe.
Photo: Jiří Cermák
The fourth display is used to set the air conditioning and other functions.
The fourth, graphically weaker display located below the main cinema provides air conditioning control (temperature, quality, direction), seat adjustment, activation of heating, massage and ventilation or driving settings.
In addition, you can adjust the rear-view mirrors, where you then control the movement of the lenses with the arrows on the steering wheel, similar to Tesla. And if we’re talking about window controls, forget classic rockers. There are unconventional raised switches.
Too much admitted artifice
Otherwise, there is also ambient backlighting lining the leather upholstery, which, however, is artificial at first sight and does not look natural at all. Attention, practically all premium manufacturers use artificial leather or a combination of real and artificial leather, but you can hardly recognize the artificial leather. With Passion, you can see and touch it almost immediately.
And the same applies to the manually, and not electrically, adjustable steering wheel. This one is heated and despite the odd shape it actually holds up well. However, the artificial upholstery, including the perforated part, slightly spoils the experience. The manufacturer didn’t have to skimp on the leather in such a busy place as the steering wheel.
Photo: Jiří Cermák
The steering wheel is manually adjustable and upholstered in noticeable artificial leather.
The head-up display with automatic height and brightness adjustment still works in front of the driver’s eyes, although the auto mode didn’t suit us very well, so we set the values manually.
The double center console with rear ventilation outlet does not have heated armrests, unlike BMW or Mercedes. Beverage carriers without heating/cooling are then elegantly hidden under the hinged lid.
What we have to praise, on the other hand, is the reliable (charging didn’t look too good) 50 W wireless mobile charger and the storage space inside the console.
Photo: Jiří Cermák
You will find comfort on the front seats even on long journeys.
The front seats, thanks to the artificial upholstery, are comfortable even on long journeys. We like the shaped headrests, although they could be soft like in the Mercedes G. Overall, the Chinese did well with the ergonomics, but we consider the two massage and rather weak programs to be a minus. Considering what the competition can do.
In the back, a royal space awaits you, its own control panel for the climate and seats, while the right rear seat has a footrest like a limousine like Mercedes-Benz S, Lexus LS or BMW 7 series.
Photo: Jiří Cermák
Also expect comfort and royal space in the back.
Finally, we also tried the Dynaudio premium audio system, which plays quite cleanly, but lacks some kind of amplifier. If you want to play music really loud, unfortunately. In short, it is not about systems from Bowers & Wilkins (e.g. BMW) or Mark Levinson (Lexus).
We consider the trunk to be another weakness. It is not as large or deep as would be appropriate for a limousine of this size. Simply, the volume of 410 liters is not just any terno.
Doping with a gasoline engine
We hinted at the introduction that this is a super plug-in hybrid, so we owe you an explanation. The five-seater Voyah Passion consists of a petrol turbocharged 136-horsepower engine and two electric motors, so we are talking about a four-wheeler.
Wait, fifteen hundred? That sounds ridiculous against competing six-cylinders, doesn’t it? However, the powertrain uses the gasoline engine only as an electrical energy generator and range extender. After all, the Mazda MX-30 with a Wankel also works on the same principle.
Photo: Jiří Cermák
The Passion only has a gasoline engine to generate electricity.
In reality, the wheels are turned by a pair of electric motors, which means a combined output of 390 KW (530 hp) and a powerful torque of 810 Nm. Despite this, the car reaches an electronically limited top speed of 200 km/h or acceleration from zero to one hundred in less than six seconds, which is a given even with a weight of over 2.2 tonnes.
So don’t expect a shot out of your pants like the Tesla S Plaid, but rather a primarily comfortable acceleration with a pleasant push of the body into the seat. Plus as soon as you step on the gas a little more, a sound similar to a futuristic trolleybus speeding up starts to play. Take a look at the video.
Voyah Passion – backlight and acceleration sound. Video: Jan Majurník
However, the battery capacity is impressive for a plug-in hybrid. The ternary traction battery holds 43 kWh of energy, which is more than many compact fully electric models offer. There is also slow (up to 100% in 8 hours) and fast charging (from 20 to 80% in 29 minutes), due to the Chinese connector solved through a reduction.
Official values have not yet been typed, but according to the Chinese CLTC standard, it is 262 km of purely electric range, which is 202 km when converted to WLTP. China reports a combined range of 1,260 km with a full 51 liter petrol tank, 969 km converted to Europe. Realistically, we think the car can do less than 200 km on a fully charged battery, and we will be around 800 km combined. Definitely great value.
Photo: Jiří Cermák
The big advantage of the model is the air chassis.
In the mode where the engine is constantly charging the battery, the consumption is around 7 liters of petrol and just over 1 kWh of electricity per hundred. On the highway, the average consumption rises to 8 to 9 liters per hundred. On the contrary, with more frequent use (and external charging) of electric energy, the average for gasoline drops steeply. In theory, however, you don’t need to charge the car, it can work quite effectively even without it.
A thumbs up goes to the adaptive air suspension, which remains realistically comfortable even after sweeping larger holes. We also praise the noise reduction, the reduction of aerodynamic whistling and the overall ease of driving.
Voyah a competition
The Voyah Passion is not a car without its weaknesses and needs to be looked at more strictly than a cheap family sedan that you can forgive a lot. Also, you probably can’t bring it to golf because the German holy trinity (BMW, Audi, Mercedes) leads there and anything else doesn’t belong in the club.
Despite the fact that it is a plug-in hybrid, you do not necessarily need to charge it and you do not lose the characteristics of the electric drive. The ride itself is very comfortable and the model itself gives a premium impression, although it definitely has its ailments in terms of luxury.
Photo: Jiří Cermák
For now, we are talking about the exotic, which arouses the interest of the surrounding area. People look behind the car, take pictures of it, pedestrians give priority to you at the crossing. This China is already simply decent and, in most respects, competitive with the current cream of the upper middle class.
The price is no less interesting, because the fully equipped Voyah Passion plug-in hybrid costs from CZK 1,669,900. For this money, you get a luxurious five-meter limousine on an air chassis with 4 × 4 drive, 530 horsepower and a large battery.
Photo: Jiří Cermák
A categorically comparable plug-in hybrid of the E class from Mercedes with the designation 400 e 4MATIC with an output of almost 400 hp, but with more flexible acceleration from 0 to 100 will cost 2,038,850 CZK in the base. You will then pay from CZK 1,824,900 for the outgoing 455-horsepower Volvo S90 T8 Recharge.
The BMW 550e xDrive Sedan with an output of almost 500 hp costs from CZK 1,968,200, while the DS Automobiles DS9 in the top E-Tense 4 × 4 version with 360 hp costs CZK 2,275,000.
This is certainly not to say that Voyah Passion can match its direct competitors in everything, because it is weaker in some technical, graphical, material or dynamic aspects. However, it definitely forms a luxuriously equipped and technologically well-conceived alternative at an attractive purchase price.
Another China in the Czech Republic: Meet Voyah Passion!
Well, folks, hold onto your hats because a new car has emerged in the Czech Republic, and it’s from China. But don’t chuckle just yet! This isn’t your run-of-the-mill China; this is Voyah Passion, looking to take on the likes of Mercedes, BMW, and Audi. Pardon me while I put my popcorn down – I feel a new automotive showdown brewing!
Design That Dares
Now let’s dive into the aesthetics because if you can’t dazzle them with brilliance, baffle them with LED lights, right? The Voyah comes equipped with some impressive features: standard LED headlights that light up like a Christmas tree and a rear active spoiler that’s adjustable—talk about a car that’s flexible with its tricks. Cheers to the designers who have turned functionality into a fun talking point!
But as we stroll around this slightly humped sedan, let’s give a little side-eye to those brake discs. They may look big thanks to the shields, but believe me, size isn’t everything! We don’t want the brakes overheating just because someone thinks they’re driving the Batmobile, do we?
Private Cinema: The Inside Scoop
When it comes to interior space, this wide-glazed cabin feels less like a car and more like a modern art gallery—minus the pretentiousness! You’ve got not just one, but two sunroofs giving you that ‘open sky’ vibe, perfect for those existential crises while driving. Just remember, if it rains, it’s not a free car wash!
But What’s Up With The Technology?
With a dashboard peppered with three displays spanning an impressive 1.4 meters, you might even feel like you’re piloting a spaceship – albeit a slightly clunky one. The interface is a love letter in Chinese characters, which may not sit well with everyone. This is a test model, remember, so let’s give them some leeway… but not too much. A little less “Chinese puzzle,” a little more “driving delight,” please!
Steering Wheel – A Bit of a Sticky Situation
Speaking of steering wheels, the manual adjustment here feels a bit more 1990s than cutting-edge. Sure, it’s heated and stylish, but come on! In the age of self-adjusting everything, why do I still have to crank a knob? What’s next? A manually-operated window? (Don’t give them ideas!)
Karaoke? Not Today!
The car might not come with karaoke apps, but you can always sing along with Dynaudio, which, unfortunately, feels more ‘meh’ than ‘majestic.’ This ain’t a Bowers & Wilkins or Mark Levinson kind of moment, folks—it’s more like “we tried.”
The Dreaded Trunk Situation
If you thought the thrills ended at the front, think again. The trunk is a measly 410 liters. For a car this size, that’s a bit like bringing a spatula to a sword fight. So forget about carting around much luggage unless you fancy using packing tricks that even Mary Poppins would find excessive.
Engineered for Ecstasy or Just for the Show?
Now, let’s talk about performance! Drawing power from a 136-horsepower turbocharged petrol engine and two electric motors, the car boasts an explosive 530 hp combined. Does that mean you’ll be the talk of the highway? Perhaps! Just don’t expect to be the lone wolf zooming past everyone—think of it more as an elegant cruise with a touch of showmanship.
A Competitive Price to Boot!
At CZK 1,669,900, the Voyah Passion seems to make its case—not a bad price for an air-suspension vehicle that looks this good on paper. But, let’s be honest, that price tag does draw eyebrows like a magician revealing his best trick. It’s tempting, but will it go the distance against the top contenders? Only time will tell!
Conclusion: The Future Awaits
All in all, the Voyah Passion is a new breed of auto that combines comfort, glitz, and a hybrid heart, all in a package that begs for a second look—or maybe a selfie! Sure, it’s not quite ready to steal the limelight from German luxury, but it’s carving out its own niche in this increasingly competitive field. Who said China couldn’t play ball?
So, whether you’re a die-hard auto enthusiast or just someone who likes to get from point A to B with a smirk, keep your eyes peeled for this flashy newcomer. Voyah Passion is here, and it might just make you reconsider what a “Chinese” car can really be!
In an intriguing development, a new contender from China, the Voyah Passion, has made its debut in the Czech Republic, ushering in a fresh wave of competition in the luxury car segment. This vehicle is not just another entry; it represents a more advanced iteration of Chinese automotive engineering that might just warrant attention from consumers.
Photo: Jiří Cermák
The arrival of the Voyah Passion brings formidable competition to established luxury automotive giants including Mercedes, BMW, Volvo, Audi, and DS, indicating a shift in the marketplace as Chinese manufacturers assert their presence.
The vehicle’s aesthetic begins with striking features such as standard LED headlights that illuminate the front line and rear branding upon activation. Additionally, a distinctive vertical light design is incorporated into the molded sections of the car, enhancing its unique appearance. At the rear, one can find a sophisticated active spoiler, noted for its adjustable lifting height, adding to the car’s dynamic capabilities.
The elegant rear profile of the Voyah Passion showcases a slightly humped sedan design, complemented by a three-meter wheelbase that promotes a spacious interior. The side of the car is adorned with aerodynamic moldings and illuminated side pull-out handles, making a bold statement. Overall, the short front and rear overhangs contribute to its sporty yet luxurious silhouette.
Photo: Jiří Cermák
The combination of rear lamps features a unique vertical light line, enhancing visibility and style.
Private cinema
The car boasts a wide-glazed cabin equipped with two sunroofs, providing a panoramic view that enriches the driving experience. This feature is complemented by strategically placed triangular glasses that enhance the driver’s vantage point, creating a spacious and open atmosphere.
Dominating the dashboard is an impressive array of three displays spanning 1.4 meters, indicative of its high-tech interface. However, it’s important to note that the version tested was not yet the final European model, as ongoing homologation tests were still in progress.
Photo: Jiří Cermák
Chinese graphics on the displays reveal a simplistic design, with some animations experiencing choppiness. The arrangement of the information system appears more complex and less user-friendly, particularly regarding various settings. Currently, certain online functionalities are inactive as they are dependent on a Chinese personal account.
Ultimately, the final product delivered to European consumers will feature a fully operational English installation, devoid of Chinese applications, thus allowing seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for enhanced multimedia and navigation options.
Photo: Jiří Cermák
The fourth display, less graphically intense, controls air conditioning and key functionalities like heating and driving settings.
In a move that may surprise some, window controls have eschewed conventional rockers in favor of uniquely designed raised switches, showcasing a modern design ethos.
Too much admitted artifice
Further elevating the interior ambiance is ambient backlighting that outlines leather upholstery; however, the artificial appearance of the leather is a noticeable touchpoint that detracts from an otherwise luxurious experience.
Moreover, the steering wheel is manually adjustable, which, while heated and comfortable, is upholstered in artificial leather that raises questions regarding quality, especially in such an essential component of the driving experience.
Photo: Jiří Cermák
The head-up display provides real-time data to the driver, although the automatic adjustment for height and brightness may require manual calibration for optimal visibility.
The double center console enhances the driving experience with rear ventilation outlets and concealed beverage carriers, demonstrating thoughtful design even though heated armrests are absent.
The front seats offer considerable comfort for extended journeys. The ergonomics have been well thought out, but the massage functionality leaves something to be desired, especially when compared to the competitors.
In the back, generous space is available, including a dedicated climate control and seat panel, with the right rear seat offering a convenient footrest akin to executive vehicles from brands like Mercedes-Benz or BMW.
Photo: Jiří Cermák
When testing the Dynaudio premium audio system, although it produced clean sound, it lacked the amplification necessary for dynamic listening experiences akin to systems from premium brands.
The trunk of the Voyah Passion presents another point of contention; with a volume of 410 liters, it falls short of expectations for a luxury sedan, leaving something to be desired for potential buyers.
Doping with a gasoline engine
The Voyah Passion operates as a super plug-in hybrid featuring a turbocharged gasoline engine generating 136 horsepower, coupled with two electric motors for a combined output of 530 horsepower and impressive torque delivered to all four wheels.
This innovative powertrain design utilizes the gasoline engine mainly as an electrical energy generator, functioning similarly to the Wankel engine in the Mazda MX-30, hinting at the advanced engineering behind this hybrid setup.
Photo: Jiří Cermák
Producing a powerful 810 Nm of torque, the Passion can reach an electronically limited maximum speed of 200 km/h and accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in less than six seconds, despite its substantial weight exceeding 2.2 tonnes.
While acceleration may not rival the frenzied pace of high-performance electric vehicles like the Tesla S Plaid, expect smooth, comfortable acceleration that offers a satisfying push into the seat, accompanied by a distinctive futuristic sound reminiscent of a trolleybus revving up.
With an impressive 43 kWh battery, the hybrid is capable of a range surpassing many compact fully electric vehicles, and charging options are flexible with both slow and fast charging available.
With an estimated electric range of 202 km once converted to the WLTP standard, the vehicle’s total combined range is projected at approximately 800 km when accounting for the fuel tank’s capacity.
Photo: Jiří Cermák
Driving the car in electric-only mode proved to be efficient, while the adaptive air suspension provides a comfortable ride, effectively handling imperfections on the roadway.
Voyah a competition
Although the Voyah Passion has notable strengths, it also faces challenges that must be assessed rigorously against competitors in the luxury market.
Despite being a plug-in hybrid not requiring regular external charging, the vehicle performs commendably on the road, reflecting a premium feel though it has apparent limitations concerning luxury finishings and material quality.
Photo: Jiří Cermák
Interest surrounding the Voyah Passion is palpable; onlookers frequently turn their heads, snap photographs, and pedestrians often grant it precedence on the road, illustrating its exotic allure.
This luxurious five-meter vehicle with a compelling price point starting at CZK 1,669,900 positions itself as a strong alternative within the luxury market, bolstered by features such as a four-wheel drive system and air suspension.
Photo: Jiří Cermák
Comparatively, other premium plug-in hybrids command higher prices, such as the Mercedes E-Class 400 e 4MATIC starting at CZK 2,038,850 and Volvo S90 T8 Recharge prices starting at CZK 1,824,900, enhancing the attractiveness of the Voyah Passion’s pricing structure.
While the Voyah Passion may not fully match its rivals in every technical and performance aspect, it establishes itself as a luxuriously appointed and technologically insightful option poised to capture consumer interest at a competitive price point.
Pension that enhance both performance and comfort.
While the Voyah Passion is making strides in the luxury automobile sector, it will need to continually refine its offerings to compete effectively against established European brands. The vehicle’s design and technology showcase a promising entry into the market, but delivering on the expectations of discerning luxury car buyers will be critical.
As the automotive landscape evolves, with increasing interest in electric and hybrid models, Voyah has ventured into a burgeoning segment with its Passion model. With its unique aesthetics, advanced hybrid technology, and luxurious features, it raises the question of whether it can redefine perceptions of Chinese automotive brands.
the Voyah Passion is a symbol of a new direction in the automotive industry, marking a significant shift that could potentially reshape the luxury vehicle market. It invites consumers to rethink traditional definitions of luxury and performance, particularly in the context of Asian automotive manufacturers. As Voyah stands at the beginning of this journey, the future looks exciting—not just for the brand, but for the entire luxury car segment that is increasingly influenced by innovation, sustainability, and a touch of daring.
