Sealion 5 DM-i takes BYD range to nine

Regardless of any ongoing political discussions, car makers are firmly set on the path of adding electricity to their model ranges. Almost every new model hitting the UK market will have an electrified variant in the lineup, be it a fully electric BEV or a hybrid of some description. It’s a trend set to continue with the introduction of a brand-new family SUV, the BYD Sealion 5 DM-i.

BYD UK has officially launched its ninth model in the UK. The new Sealion 5 DM-i is likely to prove an enticing lease option, featuring generous equipment levels, a choice of trims, and the added efficiency of BYD’s latest petrol-hybrid technology.

And it’s not hard to see why the new Sealion 5 DM-i is forecast to become one of BYD’s top-selling models in the UK.

The Sealion 5 DM-i is a stylish SUV ideally suited to modern family life. Its contemporary looks will easily carve out a place in a busy segment of the market, boasting some nice design touches alongside the comfort and practicality of an SUV. Add the improved running costs of a hybrid - not to mention the exceptional value for money overall - and it’s hard to think of a reason why you shouldn’t choose one.

BYD is offering the new Sealion 5 DM-i in a choice of two trim levels, with high levels of standard equipment across the range. Four exterior colours will also be available – the Atlantis Blue finish comes as standard, while three more choices, Obsidian Black, Time Grey and Polar White, are available as upgrade options.

Sealion 5 DM-i Comfort model

The range begins with the ‘Comfort’ trim, featuring 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic LED headlights, rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera, plus electrically adjustable, electrically folding and heated door mirrors. Driver assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and lane keep assistance are also standard equipment.

A 12.8-inch touchscreen display is fitted to all models, boasting smartphone mirroring and 4G connectivity, all of which can be controlled via BYD’s intelligent voice control. There’s an additional 8.8-inch LCD instrument panel for driver information, and you’ll also benefit from a six-way electrically adjusted driver’s seat as standard, with four-way adjustment on the passenger seat.

Sealion 5 DM-i Design model

If you’re looking for an even more upmarket experience, you can opt for the ‘Design’ trim instead. The range-topping version adds to the specification with welcome lights, an electric tailgate, front parking sensors, a 360° camera system, wireless smartphone charging, and heated front seats.

Whichever trim level you choose, inside, you’ll also find a spacious cabin with seating for five, plenty of head and legroom, and a generous boot space.

In terms of powertrain, both variants use the same highly efficient DM-i hybrid setup, albeit with differing battery options.

The hybrid system combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine and electric motor to deliver a range of up to 631 miles from a full tank of fuel, as well as an electric-only mode that’s good for a maximum of just over 50 miles of emissions-free driving.

‘Comfort’ models utilise a 12.96kWh battery, which enables a fully electric mode range of around 40 miles – still more than enough to do the average UK car journey with room to spare. It emits just 62g/km of CO2 and delivers a combined fuel consumption figure of 104.6mpg.

‘Design’ variants benefit from a larger 18.3kWh battery, which pushes the electric-only range to an even more useful 53 miles. CO2 emissions also drop to 48g/km, and fuel consumption improves to 134.5mpg.

Both models allow you to top up the battery via a 3.3kW on-board charger, and it also features a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function allowing you to run a whole range of electric appliances from the car’s on-board battery.

The BYD Sealion 5 DM-i is available to order now. First deliveries are expected to begin very soon, so you shouldn’t need to wait too long for your new car to arrive either. Configure your Sealion 5 DM-i lease here.