Introducing the all-new BYD SEALION 5 DM-i
Say hello to a serious new contender in the UK's hybrid SUV market. The BYD SEALION 5 DM-i is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) that represents a major step forward for the Chinese brand, and a sophisticated alternative for drivers who don’t want to choose between unmatched all-electric efficiency and the drive-all-day confidence of internal combustion.
The SEALION 5 DM-i is part of BYD’s expanding Ocean Series, which includes popular siblings such as the SEAL 6 DM-i and SEAL U DM-i. It brings the brand’s innovative DM-i (Dual Mode intelligence) technology to British roads: a system that prioritises electric power while using a combustion engine as a highly-efficient backup.
The SEALION 5 DM-i offers a premium look and feel at the ideal price. It is modern, practical and versatile, delivering the silent, refined performance of an EV for the daily commute, plus all the long-distance capability you need for your next adventure.
Design and Practicality
Ocean in name, ocean in nature; the BYD SEALION 5 DM-i uses a fluid design language that gives the vehicle a sleek, aerodynamic silhouette. The elegance is paired with a strong and purposeful stance that gives you total confidence in all road conditions.
The front end is defined by BYD’s signature ‘Dragon Face’ design, with a slim daytime-running LED flowing into powerful headlights. From there the sculpted bonnet flows seamlessly into the bodywork for a clean and contemporary look. The lengthy wheelbase also adds stability and maximises the room inside.
Speaking of which, the SEALION 5 DM-i's cabin is a masterclass in modern comfort. All materials are high quality and soft to the touch, and the premium setting lays down the gauntlet to BYD’s more established European competitors. Passengers benefit from generous legroom in both the front and rear, while the panoramic sunroof offers a feeling of airy spaciousness. The boot is equally impressive: at 1,410 litres with the rear seats folded, there’s a wealth of room for shopping, luggage or cargo.
Technology and Safety
BYD has managed to squeeze a remarkable amount of tech into the SEALION 5 DM-i. It begins with the brand’s signature rotating touchscreen – all 15.6 inches – that forms the centrepiece of the dash.
On it you’ll navigate the BYD Intelligent Cockpit System; a seamless user interface that features 4G connectivity, voice recognition and all your favourite apps. And when you hit play on Spotify you’ll be immersed in premium, concert-level sound via six high fidelity speakers.
The tech focus extends to safety, with the SEALION 5 DM-i offering an extensive range of driver assistance systems, including:
- 360-degree panoramic camera
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane keep assist
- Rear cross traffic alert
- Traffic sign recognition
Engines and Performance
Unlike traditional hybrids, the SEALION 5 DM-i's powertrain prioritises the electric motor, so the car drives like a pure EV for the majority of the time, and subsequently delivers an almost unmatched level of hybrid efficiency. There’s power too, with the hybrid system teaming up to sprint from 0 to 62mph in as little as 7.7 seconds.
The powertrain combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with a high-performance electric motor and BYD’s revolutionary Blade Battery. This setup provides an electric-only range of up to 53 miles: more than enough for most school runs and commutes.
When the petrol engine is engaged it generates power for the battery, leading to a combined range of up to 631 miles, which is enough to get you from the South of England, all the way up to Scotland.
Charging
Convenience is the cornerstone of the SEALION 5 DM-i. While some plug-in hybrids are limited to slow AC charging, BYD has ensured their vehicle supports DC fast charging, allowing the battery to be topped up from 30 to 80 percent in around 35 minutes.
At home, the SEALION 5 DM-i is compatible with standard 7kW wallboxes, ideal for overnight charging that can help to maximise the lifespan of the battery (which has a generous warranty of eight years, but can be expected to last 10 to 15).
The BYD app also enables owners to monitor charging status and schedule sessions to coincide with lower energy rates. You can even use the app to preheat or precool the cabin before you get in the car.
Comfort
Key features:
- Up to 616 miles combined range (fuel & battery)
- High-quality vegan leather interior
- 12.8" Touchscreen & 8.8" Driver's Display
- Intelligent & Adaptive Cruise Control
- Android Auto & Apple CarPlay as Standard
- Keyless Entry
Design
Key features:
- Comfort specification+
- Up to 631 miles combined range (fuel & battery)
- 360-degree camera
- Heated front seats
- Electric tailgate
- Wireless smartphone charger
Experience the BYD SEALION 5 DM-i with Evans Halshaw
Words don’t quite do this one justice; to fully appreciate the all-new BYD SEALION 5 DM-i you need to get in the driver’s seat yourself. Blending ocean aesthetics, class-leading hybrid technology and one of the most comfortable cabins on the market, this new entry into the UK SUV market is sure to have established players looking over their shoulders.
Ready to see how the BYD SEALION 5 DM-i can transform your daily commute? Get in touch with your nearest Evans Halshaw BYD retailer to book your test drive today.
