BYD has added another model to its UK line-up with the launch of the SEALION 5 DM-i, a mid-size plug-in hybrid SUV priced from £29,995 on the road.
Available to order now and arriving in showrooms from 7th February, the SEALION 5 DM-i is offered in two trim levels, Comfort and Design, both of which are said to feature a high level of standard kit. Automatic LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, rear parking sensors, and a rear-view camera are all included as standard. Even the entry-level Comfort rides on 18-inch alloys and comes with heated, electrically folding mirrors.
Power comes from BYD’s DM-i plug-in hybrid system, combining a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor. Buyers can choose between two battery options, offering a fully electric range of up to 53 miles and a total range of up to 631 miles on a full tank. The Comfort version uses a 12.96kWh battery for 38 miles of EV range and 62g/km CO2 emissions. The Design trim has an 18.3kWh battery, extending electric-only travel to over 53 miles and cutting emissions to 48g/km.
Performance looks to be respectable, too. The Comfort goes from 0-62mph in 7.7 seconds, while the heavier Design trim takes 8.1 seconds. Fuel efficiency is rated at 104.6mpg and 134.5mpg respectively, based on WLTP figures.
Inside, the SEALION 5 is well-specced with vegan leather seats, an 8.8-inch digital driver display, and a rotating 12.8-inch infotainment screen compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Voice control is handled via the “Hi BYD” system, and both trims include electrically adjustable front seats.
If you choose the more expensive, £32,995 Design model, you’ll get extras including front parking sensors, welcome lights, an electric tailgate, a 360° camera, wireless phone charging, and heated front seats. A 463-litre boot and generous rear passenger space make it a good potential family car too.
Steve Beattie, Deputy Country Manager of BYD UK
“The SEALION 5 strengthens the BYD line-up by offering our most accessible entry point into DM-i plug-in hybrid technology to date. Its combination of meaningful electric-only range, outstanding efficiency and everyday usability is matched by a starting price that compares favourably against many similarly sized combustion-engine SUVs. Crucially, it also delivers the advanced technology and high specification that customers expect from BYD.
All SEALION 5 models feature a 3.3kW on-board charger and come with Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability – allowing the car’s battery to power external devices like camping gear or garden tools (with an optional adapter).
Four exterior colours are available, with Atlantis Blue included as standard. Obsidian Black, Time Grey, and Polar White are available as £850 options.
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