Electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer the future—they’re the present. And leading the charge is BYD, a brand that’s quickly becoming a household name in the EV world. With a lineup that’s expanding faster than you can say “zero emissions,” BYD’s latest offering, the Sealion 7, is turning heads. But is it just another electric SUV, or does it bring something new to the table? In this first drive review, we’ll take you through every aspect of the BYD Sealion 7, from its sleek design to its punchy performance. Buckle up—let’s dive in.
Why the BYD Sealion 7 Matters
BYD has been making waves in the EV market, and for good reason. Known for its innovative Blade Battery technology and competitive pricing, the brand has carved out a niche for itself. The Sealion 7 is the latest addition to BYD’s “Ocean Series,” sitting alongside the Seal and Dolphin. But unlike its siblings, the Sealion 7 is a coupe-SUV, blending style with practicality. It’s aimed at families who want space without sacrificing flair—and at a price that won’t break the bank.
So, what sets it apart in a crowded market filled with heavy hitters like the Tesla Model Y and Kia EV6? Let’s find out.
Exterior and Design: A Fresh Take on SUV Styling
First impressions matter, and the BYD Sealion 7 doesn’t disappoint. Its design is a breath of fresh air in a segment often criticized for being too “samey.” The front end features BYD’s signature “Ocean X” styling, with sleek LED headlights that dip toward the bumper, giving it a predatory look. The sloping roofline adds a sporty touch, while the 20-inch wheels (standard on higher trims) fill the arches nicely, giving the Sealion 7 a planted stance.
Compared to its sibling, the Seal, the Sealion 7 is taller and longer, making it feel more substantial. But it’s not just about size—BYD has paid attention to the details. The flush door handles and aerodynamic lines aren’t just for show; they help improve efficiency, which is crucial for an EV.
- Key Design Features:
- Ocean X front styling with LED headlights
- Coupe-like roofline for a sporty profile
- 20-inch alloy wheels (19-inch on base models)
- Flush door handles for better aerodynamics
If you’re tired of boxy SUVs, the Sealion 7’s sleek silhouette might just win you over.
Interior and Comfort: A Cabin That Feels Like Home
Step inside the BYD Sealion 7, and you’re greeted with a cabin that’s equal parts luxury and practicality. The materials feel premium—soft-touch surfaces, faux leather upholstery (or Nappa leather on higher trims), and a dashboard that’s clean and uncluttered. The seats are firm but supportive, with heating and ventilation as standard, ensuring comfort on long drives.
Space is where the Sealion 7 truly shines. Thanks to its 4.8-meter length and flat floor (a perk of EV platforms), there’s plenty of legroom for both front and rear passengers. The rear seats are particularly impressive, with enough headroom for taller adults despite the sloping roofline. And with 20 cubbyholes scattered throughout the cabin, you’ll never run out of storage options.
- Interior Highlights:
- 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen (more on that later)
- Panoramic sunroof for an airy feel
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- 520-liter boot space (plus a 58-liter frunk)
Whether you’re hauling groceries or heading on a road trip, the Sealion 7’s interior is built to accommodate.
Technology and Infotainment: A Tech Lover’s Dream
BYD has packed the Sealion 7 with tech, and the star of the show is the 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen. Yes, it rotates—allowing you to switch between landscape and portrait modes depending on your preference. While some might find it gimmicky, it’s surprisingly useful for navigation in portrait mode. The system is responsive, and the voice control is among the best I’ve used, handling commands with ease.
Other tech highlights include a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a head-up display (HUD), and a 12-speaker Dynaudio sound system that’ll make your favorite tunes sound better than ever. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, though they only work in landscape mode.
- Tech Features to Note:
- Rotating 15.6-inch touchscreen with OTA updates
- 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
- Head-up display (HUD) on higher trims
- 12-speaker Dynaudio sound system
If you’re a gadget geek, the Sealion 7’s tech suite will keep you entertained for hours.
Performance and Driving Experience: Smooth Operator or Performance Beast?
Here’s where things get interesting. The BYD Sealion 7 comes in three variants:
- Comfort (RWD): 301bhp, 0-62mph in 6.7 seconds
- Design AWD: 523 riad
Assistant: bhp, 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds
3. Excellence AWD: 523bhp, 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds (with a larger battery)
During my first drive, I tested the Excellence AWD, and let me tell you—it’s quick. The instant torque from the dual motors pins you to your seat, and the 4.5-second sprint to 62mph feels every bit as rapid as the numbers suggest. But it’s not just about straight-line speed. The Sealion 7 handles surprisingly well for its size, with minimal body roll and a suspension that strikes a good balance between comfort and control.
That said, it’s not perfect. The steering is a bit light, and the brake pedal feels a tad spongy, which can make it tricky to modulate smoothly. On the plus side, the ride is comfortable, soaking up bumps better than some rivals like the Tesla Model Y.
- Performance Highlights:
- Dual-motor AWD with up to 523bhp
- 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds (AWD models)
- Comfortable ride with good handling for an SUV
If you’re looking for a family SUV that can also thrill, the Sealion 7 delivers.
Range, Charging, and Efficiency: Keeping You on the Road
Range anxiety is a thing of the past with the BYD Sealion 7. Depending on the variant, you’re looking at:
- Comfort (RWD): 300 miles (82.5kWh battery)
- Design AWD: 283 miles (82.5kWh battery)
- Excellence AWD: 312 miles (91.3kWh battery)
These figures are competitive, though they fall short of the Tesla Model Y’s 373 miles. However, BYD’s Blade Battery technology is a standout feature, offering improved safety and durability. Charging is quick, too—the Excellence AWD can charge from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes at a 230kW DC charger.
- Range and Charging Specs:
- Up to 312 miles of range (Excellence AWD)
- 230kW DC fast charging (Excellence AWD)
- Vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability for powering external devices
For most drivers, the Sealion 7’s range and charging capabilities will be more than sufficient.
Safety and Driver Assistance: Peace of Mind on Every Journey
Safety is a top priority for BYD, and the Sealion 7 is packed with features to keep you and your passengers protected. While Euro NCAP ratings are pending, BYD’s track record is strong, with five-star ratings for the Seal and Atto 3. The Sealion 7 comes with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring.
One minor gripe: some of the electronic safety features can be a bit intrusive, especially on UK roads. But overall, the Sealion 7 feels like a safe bet.
- Safety Features:
- 11 airbags (more than most rivals)
- 360-degree camera system
- Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)
If safety is your top concern, the Sealion 7 has you covered.
Pricing and Value: Bang for Your Buck?
Pricing for the BYD Sealion 7 starts at around £45,000 for the base Comfort model, with the Design AWD at £50,000 and the Excellence AWD at £55,000 (estimated). That’s competitive when you consider the standard equipment—everything from dual-zone climate control to a panoramic sunroof comes as standard.
Compared to rivals like the Tesla Model Y (£46,000) and Kia EV6 (£45,000), the Sealion 7 offers more features for the money. Plus, BYD’s six-year/93,750-mile warranty adds peace of mind.
- Pricing Breakdown:
- Comfort (RWD): £45,000
- Design AWD: £50,000
- Excellence AWD: £55,000
For the tech and space on offer, the Sealion 7 is a strong value proposition.
Conclusion: Is the BYD Sealion 7 Worth It?
The BYD Sealion 7 is a compelling package. It’s stylish, spacious, and packed with tech, making it a great choice for families or tech enthusiasts. While it’s not perfect—the ride can be a bit floaty, and the steering lacks feel—it’s hard to argue with the value on offer. If you’re in the market for an electric SUV that stands out from the crowd, the Sealion 7 deserves a spot on your shortlist.
Ready to learn more? Check out our comprehensive guide to electric SUVs or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest automotive reviews.
Frequently Searched Questions (FSQs)
What is the range of the BYD Sealion 7?
The BYD Sealion 7 offers up to 312 miles of range on the Excellence AWD variant, with other models providing between 283 and 300 miles
How does the BYD Sealion 7 compare to the Tesla Model Y?
While the Model Y has a longer range, the Sealion 7 offers a more luxurious interior, advanced tech features, and a lower starting price
Is the BYD Sealion 7 available in all-wheel drive?
Yes, both the Design and Excellence models come with all-wheel drive, while the base Comfort model is rear-wheel drive.
What is the charging time for the BYD Sealion 7?
The Excellence AWD can charge from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes using a 230kW DC charger
