New BYD Sealion 5 DM-i is a ‘Super Hybrid’ SUV.

New BYD Sealion 5 is a ‘Super Hybrid’ SUV.

The new BYD Sealion 5 Super Hybrid is an innovative plug-in hybrid (PHEV) mid-size, 5-seat SUV, and it joins the hugely-successful Seal U Super Hybrid, and Seal 6 Super Hybrid in BYD’s PHEV line-up in Ireland. The intelligent Super DM (Dual Mode) Hybrid Technology used in the Sealion 5 enables two driving modes: Pure EV and Hybrid, and this versatility allows for optimal efficiency in various driving conditions. Providing a cost-effective, practical and eco-conscious solution for daily mobility needs, and long worry-free journeys, the Sealion 5 delivers a combined range of up to 1,016kms on a WLTP combined driving cycle, a pure-electric range of up to 86kms, and fuel consumption as low as 2.1 litres per 100kms. BYD claim their self-developed 1.5-litre petrol engine is the “world’s highest thermally-efficient petrol-driven engine”. With brake thermal efficiency of 43%, it boasts fuel efficiency that meets long-range emissions standards, whilst having the additional benefit of a distinctly smooth and quiet driving experience.

Wide, Confident Look.

The Sealion 5 brings together style and strength. Its wide, confident look is inspired by BYD’s signature “Dragon Face” design, ensuring it feels safe, modern and ready for any family adventure. It is equipped with full-LED headlights that intelligently adapt to changing conditions on the road, along with slim LED daytime-running lights. The Sealion 5’s side profile combines a modern silhouette with strong wheelarch shoulders, while the contrasting D-pillar creates a distinctive “floating roof” effect. The rear of the car is fitted with a full-width LED light bar and sharply angled full-LED tail-lights, along with an integrated roof spoiler that enhances the Sealion 5’s dynamic design. The standard-fit 18-inch bi-colour alloy wheels not only look terrific, but they also provide excellent performance and grip.

Driver Assistance Tech.

The Sealion 5 features a full suite of driver assistance technologies, including Adaptive Cruise Control and Intelligent Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assistance, Blind Spot Detection, Intelligent Speed Limit Control, Lane Departure Warning, Forward and Rear Collision Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Departure Prevention, Automatic Emergency Braking, and Hill Hold Assist. A total of 7 airbags also come as standard, along with ISOFIX and i-Size connections on the outer rear and front passenger’s seats.

Two Trim Grades.

The new Sealion 5 Super Hybrid is available in Comfort and Design trim grades. In addition to an impressive array of standard features and equipment in Comfort trim, Design trim brings with it an electric tailgate, dynamic welcome lights, heated front seats, rear USB ports, a 15W wireless smartphone-charging pad, front parking sensors, and a 360-degree view camera. Configured with different battery sizes supporting the same total system power output of 212hp, the Comfort model has a battery capacity of 12.96kWh delivering up to 62kms of pure-electric range, and an overall WLTP combined range figure of 922kms. With its larger 18.3kWh battery, the Design model has a pure-electric range of 85kms and a combined range of 1,016kms. Occupants can enjoy seamless connectivity with built-in 4G and BYD cloud services via the BYD App. Intelligent voice control (“Hi BYD”) means journeys feel effortless, while Android Auto & Apple CarPlay provide continuous connectivity on the go. The Sealion 5’s Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) feature transform the car into a versatile mobile power source, charging and powering devices, appliances or gadgets. The Sealion 5’s spacious cabin blends thoughtful engineering, premium materials, and intelligent design, delivering a harmonious blend of space, serenity and sophistication that elevates every journey. The driver-focused cockpit places every control exactly where you would expect it, with vital functions always within easy reach. The wide centre console comes with practical storage integrated within, and every seat offers class-leading legroom, headroom and shoulder room – ensuring that all occupants travel in genuine comfort. Boot space is

Innovative Blade Battery.

Fast, powerful and efficient, the Sealion 5 Super Hybrid works by prioritising electric power with minimal reliance on fuel. Exclusively developed by BYD, it offers a multitude of benefits, including energy efficiency, low fuel consumption, enhanced driving performance, and premium levels of comfort. When the battery is fully charged and switched to EV mode, the vehicle becomes pure-electric and when the State Of Charge (SOC) is low, it transforms into a highly-efficient hybrid vehicle producing a quiet and comfortable driving experience. An integral part of the BYD Super DM Technology package is a bespoke version of BYD’s acclaimed cobalt-free ‘Blade Battery’, which was designed exclusively for hybrid applications. The Sealion 5 supports 3.3kW AC charging, with a 15%-100% charge possible in 4.5-hours or 6-hours for the Comfort and Design models respectively. The Design model is also compatible with DC fast charging, allowing a 10%-80% charge in under 30 minutes.

Test Car Details.

My test car was a Sealion 5 Super Hybrid in Design trim, and it looked very elegant in its Polar White metallic paintwork and contrasting bi-tone alloy wheels. The petrol/electric powertrain features a single electric motor on the front axle that produces combined max power and torque outputs of 212hp and 300Nm respectively. This enables the car to sprint from 0-100km/h in 8.1 seconds (7.7 seconds in Comfort trim), and it does so in a composed and efficient manner. Drivers can choose between Eco, Normal, Sport and Snow driving modes to suit their individual driving style, or road conditions, with Sport mode providing a sharper steering response and mildly-enhanced power delivery. The Sealion 5’s silent, smooth EV operation makes city driving particularly pleasant, as there is no engine noise, instant acceleration and regenerative braking that recaptures energy efficiently. The car remains sure-footed and refined at motorways speeds, with adaptive cruise control transforming long journeys into an effortless task, with the petrol engine running quietly in the background. Predictable handling and just the right amount of body control make it capable and reassuring on challenging back roads. The car tackles speed ramps and rutted road surfaces with ease, and its relatively-soft suspension set-up enhances the comfort enjoyed by all occupants.

Conclusion & Price.

The BYD Sealion 5 Super Hybrid enters a market segment populated by well-established rivals, such as the Kia Sportage PHEV, Hyundai Tucson PHEV, and the Ford Kuga PHEV, but BYD’s latest offering is more than capable to challenge the establishment with strong efficiency credentials, thoughtful technology and keen pricing, along with a 6-year/150,000km manufacturer’s warranty, and an outstanding  8-year/250,000km battery warranty. Pricing starts at €36,990 for the Comfort model, and from €40,990 for the Design model (as tested). Annual road tax is just €140 across the model range.

Visit www.bydauto.ie for further information.