Article by Damien O’Carroll, 3 April 2026.
BYD has increased its line up in several ways with the introduction of the Sealion 8, the brand’s largest and most premium vehicle to date.
The Sealion 8 is a new seven-seat SUV that marks a significant step for the carmaker, positioning itself directly against established competitors in the large SUV segment rather than simply undercutting them on price.
Measuring over five metres long with a three-metre wheelbase, the Sealion 8 offers substantial space and a high level of standard equipment, and by entering the market as a plug-in hybrid distinguishes itself from most of its direct rivals.
The Sealion 8 is available in two powertrain configurations – the entry-level front-wheel-drive model uses BYD’s DM-i hybrid system, combining a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor for a total output of 205kW and 315Nm. It is equipped with a 19kWh battery, providing an electric-only range of 103 kilometres (although this an NEDC figure, so real world will be less).
The all-wheel-drive variants feature the more powerful DM-p hybrid powertrain, boosting combined output to an impressive 359kW and 675Nm thanks to an additional electric motor and a larger 35.6kWh battery, extending the electric-only range to 152 kilometres (also NEDC).
The Sealion 8 range begins with the Dynamic FWD model that costs $74,990, with the more powerful Dynamic AWD landing at $83,990. The top-of-the-line Premium AWD model carries a price tag of $91,990.
The BYD Sealion 8 offers up a particularly impressive driving experience, characterised by its sheer composure and serenity on the road. Ride quality is impressive and extremely well composed, with minimal body roll that is surprisingly well-controlled for a large 7-seat SUV.
However, the absolute highlight of the Sealion 8 experience is the utter silence of the petrol engine – you could genuinely think that the big SUV is an all-electric affair, such is the seamless and silent nature of the powertrain.
The AWD model we drove didn’t exactly scorch off the line, as its 0 to 100km/h time of 4.9 seconds might suggest, rather the power built in a dignified but insistent fashion, saving the bulk of its shove until it is up and running, which makes for superb open road cruising, and passing power.
Despite its significant weight (over 3 tonnes for AWD models), it feels very competent and composed, with handling that exceeds expectations for its size. While there’s a slight brittle edge to the ride on coarse surfaces, it’s not a major issue.
The front-wheel-drive model remains an unknown quantity, but the significant performance and range benefits of the AWD system make it the more compelling choice for now.
It does have other Chinese rivals that offer similar size and seating in PHEV form, but they are significantly cheaper, while also being significantly lower quality.
To read Damien’s full article where he compares the Sealion 8 to competitor models, click here.