Explore the all-electric BYD Seal in this comprehensive review, evaluating its features, interior design, performance, safety features, and suitability as a competitor to the Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Ioniq 6.
BYD’s expansion into Australia introduces the Seal, an impressive all-electric sedan which competes with the Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Ioniq 6. The Seal is a compelling choice for electric vehicle enthusiasts with its sleek design, advanced technology, and formidable performance.
What does it come with?
The BYD Seal introduces a diverse model range with three distinct variants tailored to varying preferences and driving requirements.
BYD Seal Dynamic (Standard Range)
Priced from $49,888 RRP plus on-road costs, the Dynamic model features a rear drivetrain with 150kW max power and 310Nm max torque, accelerating from 0-100km/h in 7.5 seconds. Equipped with a 61.44kWh battery, it provides a WLTP driving range of 460km. The inclusion of a 110kW DC CCS2 charging port and standard 18-inch alloy wheels with 225/50 R18 continental tires enhances its appeal. Additionally, regenerative braking contributes to improved energy efficiency.
BYD Seal Premium (Extended Range)
Starting from $58,798 RRP plus on-road costs, the Premium variant boasts enhanced performance, featuring 230kW max power and 360Nm max torque, achieving a swift 0-100km/h acceleration in 5.9 seconds. With a larger 82.56kWh capacity battery, it extends the WLTP driving range to 570km. The model is equipped with a 150kW DC CCS2 port for faster charging. Interior upgrades include a heads-up display, genuine leather seats and steering wheel, position memory, and four-way lumbar power adjustment. Exterior enhancements comprise 19-inch alloy wheels and door mirrors with position memory and auto-tilt functions.
BYD Seal Performance (AWD)
Priced from $68,748, the Performance model stands out with its high-performance AWD drivetrain, achieving a rapid 3.8-second 0-100km/h acceleration time. The motor configuration includes a 160kW/310Nm front motor and a 230kW/360Nm rear motor, resulting in 390kW max power and 670Nm max torque. The Performance variant maintains Premium upgrades and introduces advanced features such as frequency selective damping, intelligent torque adaption control, and an electronic child lock for increased safety. The model offers a WLTP claimed driving range of 520km.
Warranty
All BYD Seal models come with an 8-year or 160,000km battery warranty and a 6-year or 150,000km vehicle warranty.
BYD Seal Video Review
What’s the interior like?
The BYD Seal boasts a refined and sophisticated interior, showcasing a significant leap in quality compared to earlier models. Soft-touch materials adorn key surfaces, providing a premium feel.
The cabin layout is thoughtfully designed, offering ample oddment space, a wireless charging pad for two smartphones, and quality fabrics and plastics.
With a spacious feel and attention to detail, the interior represents a substantial improvement, establishing the Seal as a competitive option in the electric sedan segment.
What powers it?
Built on the e-Platform 3.0 shared with the Atto 3 and Dolphin, the BYD Seal features a unique ‘cell-to-body’ battery installation. This innovative approach enhances torsional rigidity and contributes to a lower roofline.
The Seal is available in two versions for European customers: Seal Design and Seal Excellence-AWD. The former, with a single rear-mounted motor, produces 227kW, accelerating from 0-100km/h in just under six seconds, and offers a range of 570km.
The latter, an all-wheel-drive variant, boasts a front motor, torque vectoring, and 385kW, achieving a rapid 0-100km/h time of 3.8 seconds, with a slightly reduced range of 520km. Both versions feature a heat pump for real-world range preservation and 150KW DC charging.
What’s it like to drive?
The BYD Seal delivers a refined and accomplished driving experience. The rear-drive version, showcased during our test drive, exhibits impressive acceleration, easily reaching motorway speeds.
The latest e-Platform 3.0 effectively isolates the cabin from road and wind noise, making the Seal a comfortable and quiet cruiser. The suspension configuration strikes a good balance between body control and comfort, providing an enjoyable driving experience.
How safe is it?
Safety is a top priority in the BYD Seal, equipped with an extensive suite of advanced technologies. Features include autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian/cyclist detection and intersection assist, lane-keep assist and lane following assist, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, evasive steering assist, blind-spot monitoring with braking support, rear cross-traffic alert with braking support, driver attention warning with a driver-facing camera, traffic sign recognition, door exit warning, and rear occupant alert.
What we like about it and is it for you?
The BYD Seal impresses with its striking design, innovative battery installation, refined interior, and strong performance. With competitive specifications even in the base trim, including a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel, a 15.6-inch infotainment screen, a premium sound system, and various comfort features, the Seal offers a compelling package. As BYD continues to refine its offerings, the Seal stands out as a mature and well-rounded electric sedan, promising a strong presence in the evolving electric vehicle market. Consider the BYD Seal if you seek a sophisticated and high-performing electric sedan with a focus on advanced safety features.
Find out how much a BYD Seal will cost you
