BYD UK has confirmed the launch of its ninth model in the UK – the new SEALION 5 DM-i. Starting from £29,995 on-the-road, the new mid-size plug-in hybrid offers strong value-for-money in the family SUV class.
Even with the sophisticated powertrain of its Super Hybrid with DM technology plug-in hybrid system, the SEALION 5 is priced to compete with similarly sized internal combustion engine-powered SUVs. The DM-i powertrain helps to reduce running costs for buyers, while retaining the flexibility of a petrol engine.
The SEALION 5 DM-i is forecast to become one of BYD’s top-selling models in the UK, joining a line-up which was already strong enough to see BYD close out 2025 as the country’s leading New Emission Vehicle (battery electric and plug-in hybrid) manufacturer. It will be offered in a choice of two trim levels, with high levels of standard equipment across the range.
The range begins with the Comfort, priced from £29,995 on-the-road. It offers a generous specification, including 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic LED headlights, rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera, plus electrically adjustable, electrically folding and heated door mirrors.
The highest level of on-board technology is to be expected in a BYD, and the SEALION 5 DM-i does not disappoint. A 12.8-inch touchscreen display is fitted to all models, and features smartphone mirroring through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus 4G connectivity – all of which can be controlled via the “Hi BYD” intelligent voice control. Ahead of the driver sits an 8.8-inch LCD instrument panel.
The cabin is luxuriously appointed, too, with vegan leather trimming the seats and steering wheel. Driver comfort is ensured with six-way electrical seat adjustment as standard, with four-way adjustment on the passenger seat.
Buyers wanting to experience an even more upmarket experience can opt for the Design version, which has an on-the-road price of £32,995. The top trim level boasts welcome lights, an electric tailgate, front parking sensors, a 360° camera system, wireless smartphone charging and heated front seats.
Whichever trim level buyers choose, they will benefit from a cabin spacious enough for five occupants and their luggage; this includes generous rear leg and headroom, plus a 463-litre boot.
Both trim levels use BYD’s DM-i plug-in hybrid powertrain producing 212PS. A 1.5-litre petrol engine – whose thermal efficiency of 43 per cent makes it among the most efficient internal combustion engines in series production today – assists an electric motor in order to give the smooth driving experience of a fully electric vehicle with the versatility of a petrol car. The Comfort trim covers the 0-62mph sprint in 7.7 seconds, while the Design completes the benchmark in 8.1 seconds.
The Comfort model draws its energy from a 12.96kWh battery, which enables a fully electric mode range of over 38 miles (based on WLTP cycle) – enough to do the average UK car journey with room to spare. It also emits just 62g/km of CO2, resulting in a weighted combined fuel consumption figure of 104.6mpg.
The Design benefits from a larger battery for even greater electric-only potential. Total capacity grows to 18.3kWh, which sees the total range rise to 53.4 miles. CO2 emissions drop to 48g/km, and weighted fuel consumption improves to 134.5mpg. In both models, the battery can be topped up via a 3.3kW on-board charger. The SEALION 5 also features Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology, which allows owners to run various appliances from the car’s on-board battery, for example a portable coffee machine or lawnmower.
Four exterior colours will be available. Atlantis Blue is available as standard, while three more choices, Obsidian Black, Time Grey and Polar White, are available for £850.
Commenting on the latest addition to the BYD range in the UK, Steve Beattie, Deputy Country Manager of BYD UK, said,
“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.”
