What is it?
The Sealion 8 is BYD's first three-row SUV for Australia, built on the Super Hybrid DM-i platform with a 1.5-litre turbo petrol paired to one or two electric motors. Three seven-seat grades from $56,990 to $70,990 plus on-roads, with the AWD pair making 359 kW combined and claiming up to 152 km of NEDC EV range from the 35.6 kWh LFP battery.
The lineup runs from Dynamic FWD at $56,990 plus on-roads, through to Premium AWD at $70,990 plus on-roads. Warranty cover sits at 6 years, 150,000 km (vehicle).
Interior and Technology
The cheapest seven-seat PHEV SUV on the Australian market by a clear margin. Dual-motor AWD makes 359 kW with a 4.9 second 0 to 100 claim, and the AWD variants run a 35.6 kWh LFP pack for 152 km NEDC EV range.
Range and fuel claims sit on the older NEDC cycle, ANCAP rating is not yet published, and BYD's dealer footprint is still expanding outside the metros.
Should you buy the Sealion 8?
Reasons to buy
- The cheapest seven-seat PHEV SUV on the Australian market by a clear margin. Dual-motor AWD makes 359 kW with a 4.9 second 0 to 100 claim, and the AWD variants run a 35.6 kWh LFP pack for 152 km NEDC EV range.
- Warranty: 6 years, 150,000 km. Battery: 8 years, 160,000 km.
- Braked towing rated at 1,800 kg.
Reasons to wait
- Range and fuel claims sit on the older NEDC cycle, ANCAP rating is not yet published, and BYD's dealer footprint is still expanding outside the metros.
- You want a 3,500 kg braked tow rating, a published ANCAP score (testing is pending), or the longer 7-year warranty offered on the Kia Sorento PHEV.
- Dynamic AWD is the value pick with the large battery, dual-motor traction and most of the family-relevant gear. Confirm ANCAP testing status with your local BYD store before signing.
- Top trim climbs to $70,990 plus on-roads.
CarTell.tv review of the BYD Sealion 8 is coming. Subscribe on YouTube and you will be first to see it.
