1. What is it?
The Sealion 8 is BYD’s move into the full-size seven-seater plug-in hybrid SUV segment (PHEV). In markets such as Australia the car is due to launch in Q1 2026. It sits above smaller BYD SUVs and is meant to compete with models such as the Toyota Kluger Hybrid, Mazda CX‑80 PHEV and Kia Sorento PHEV.
2. Powertrain & Performance
The Sealion 8 is offered in two PHEV powertrain trims:
DM-i (Intelligence): A 1.5-litre turbo four-cylinder petrol engine (110 kW / 220 Nm) + front electric motor (200 kW / 315 Nm) and a ~19 kWh battery. Combined output for the front-wheel drive version results in a claimed 0-100 km/h of around 8.6 seconds.
DM-p (Performance): Same petrol engine + front motor + rear-axle electric motor (141 kW / 360 Nm) + larger ~35.6 kWh battery. All-wheel drive. Combined output around 359-400 kW depending on source, and a 0-100 km/h time of about 4.9 seconds.
For a family-sized seven-seat SUV, the performance on the top spec is very impressive.
3. Interior, Space & Features
Space & layout
The Sealion 8 is configured as a 2+3+2 seating layout (third row included) in markets like Australia.
As a full-size SUV it offers genuine third-row space (though, as always, third rows are smaller than the first two rows). The car is oriented toward families who need seven seats.
Features
Large infotainment screen (e.g., 15.6-inch touchscreen) + digital instrument cluster; premium materials, leather upholstery, heated/ventilated/massage seats in higher trims.
Safety & driver assistance: BYD’s “DiPilot 300” suite with LiDAR, radars, cameras etc in some markets.
Comfort-oriented ride: reviewers note it is plush and quiet.
4. On-the-Road Experience
In the flagship DM-p version the acceleration is very strong for the size: “stomping on the accelerator… before you know it this enormous SUV is doing 150 km/h”.
Ride and handling: The suspension is tuned more for comfort than sport. Some reviewers say the steering lacks sharpness and the body is a bit “floaty” in corners.
Practicality: With seven seats and a large cabin, it delivers on the family SUV brief. The PHEV system means you get electric-only driving for shorter trips and petrol backup for longer journeys.
5. Pricing & Availability
Official pricing is not yet confirmed in many markets. For example in Iran the price is listed at approx US$51,800 (just for reference).
In Australia, launch is expected in Q1 2026.
Because it’s a flagship model for BYD in many markets, expect it to be priced toward the premium end of the segment.
6. What We Like (Pros)
Strong performance: Especially the DM-p variant gives SUV buyers serious performance credentials.
Seven seats + PHEV flexibility: Combines large SUV practicality with plug-in hybrid efficiency.
Feature-rich interior: Premium materials, modern tech, many comforts.
Competitive tech & value: Given BYD’s known value positioning, the Sealion 8 looks to offer a lot for the money.
Global relevance: BYD is pushing hard into global markets, so support and reputation are improving.
7. What Could Be Better (Cons)
Handling & steering: As noted, if you’re someone who enjoys sharp driving dynamics, this may feel soft and less engaging.
Third-row usability: While seven seats are present, third-row comfort will likely be less than first two rows—common in the class.
Unknowns on service/parts in some markets: As BYD expands globally, in some regions the dealer-service network may not yet be as robust as legacy brands.
Waiting for full specs & rating: Some information is still “to be confirmed” (pricing, ANCAP/NHTSA ratings etc).
Weight & efficiency trade-offs: Big size + PHEV system means there may be compromises in fuel economy when battery is depleted, compared to smaller SUVs or full EVs.
8. How It Stacks Up vs Competitors
In the large seven-seat SUV PHEV space, the Sealion 8 offers a strong alternative to more established rivals:
Versus Toyota Kluger Hybrid: Likely better tech and PHEV capability vs a traditional hybrid.
Versus Kia Sorento PHEV/Mazda CX-80 PHEV: Comparable size and electrification, BYD may win on tech & price.
Versus full electric seven-seaters: It has petrol backup, so less range-anxiety, but of course it’s not full EV.
9. Who Should Buy It?
This car is especially suited to:
Families needing genuine seven seats and regular passenger or cargo flexibility.
Buyers who want plug-in hybrid flexibility (electric for shorter trips + petrol/hybrid for longer).
Tech-savvy buyers who appreciate modern infotainment, safety tech and premium interiors.
People who aren’t focused purely on sporty driving dynamics but value comfort and space.
It may be less suited to:
Drivers seeking sharp sports-car-like handling in an SUV.
Buyers who want a full electric vehicle and are committed to no petrol usage.
Those in regions where the BYD service/support network is still developing (depending on local market).
10. Final Verdict
The 2026 BYD Sealion 8 is a very strong contender in the large seven-seat SUV space, especially when you factor in its PHEV powertrain, tech-filled cabin, and family-friendly layout. While some dynamic refinements could be better, for most buyers it delivers a compelling blend of practicality, performance and modern features.
Unless you’re prioritising ultra-sporty driving or full-electric only powertrains, it’s definitely worth serious consideration. As with any new entrant, just ensure local service/network and pricing align well when launch happens.
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