BYD SEALION 7: Next-Gen Electric SUV Review

When I got into the BYD SEALION 7, I felt something special. It’s not just another electric car. It’s a step forward in making cars better for our planet.

BYD arrived in Australia and New Zealand in 2022. They brought models like the Atto 3, Dolphin, and Seal. The SEALION 7 is their biggest move yet. It’s a mid-sized electric SUV that wants to take on the Tesla Model Y.

In this review, I’ll share my experience with the SEALION 7. We’ll look at how it drives, its comfort, and more. I’m excited to see how it balances performance, tech, and everyday use.

For those in New Zealand thinking about electric cars, it’s not just about being green. It’s about if these cars can really replace the old ones. Let’s see if the SEALION 7 meets that challenge.

The BYD SEALION 7 is a game-changer in the electric SUV market. It combines great features with value, making sustainable mobility more available. This car is similar in size to the Sealion 6 but has a full electric battery, making it a practical SUV.

The SEALION 7 has two versions for different drivers. The Premium model has 230kW of power and 380Nm of torque. It’s perfect for daily driving and highway overtaking.

The Performance model boosts power to 390kW and 690Nm of torque. This makes it more thrilling for those who love speed.

Both models use BYD’s 82.56kWh LFP Blade battery. The Premium model goes up to 482km on a single charge. The Performance model reaches 456km.

The SEALION 7 looks modern and practical. It’s 4830mm long, 1925mm wide, and 1620mm tall. It’s big enough to be noticed but easy to maneuver in cities.

Its design is clean and detailed, following BYD’s modern style. It’s not too futuristic, making it feel both new and familiar.

The interior is spacious and luxurious. The 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen is a standout feature. The use of quality materials adds to the premium feel, making it a great value.

BYD has priced the SEALION 7 to be a budget-friendly option. The Premium starts at $54,990, and the Performance at $63,990. This is lower than many competitors, like the Tesla Model Y.

BYD includes lots of standard features. This means you get a lot without having to pay extra. It’s a smart move to make the car more appealing.

The SEALION 7 is changing how we think about electric cars. It shows that EVs don’t have to be expensive. BYD is making electric cars more accessible, helping us move towards a greener future.

For those looking at their first electric car, the SEALION 7 is hard to ignore. Its value and features make it a compelling choice, even for those new to Chinese brands.

My tests of the BYD SEALION 7 showed a powertrain that impresses. It balances power and efficiency well. This electric SUV proves BYD’s skill in making vehicles that perform and are easy to use.

The SEALION 7 has two powertrain options. Both use BYD’s 82.56kWh LFP Blade battery. ThePremium model has a single rear motor, making 230kW and 380Nm of torque.

ThePerformance variant adds a front motor. It gets 390kW and 690Nm of torque. These numbers mean the car drives well and feels quick.

The SEALION 7 drives smoothly and feels engaging. The Premium model goes from 0-100km/h in 6.7 seconds. The Performance model does it in 4.5 seconds.

BYD made the power delivery smooth. This makes the car easy to drive, even for those used to gas cars. But, it’s quick when you need it to be.

The car is heavy, but it handles well. It has a firm suspension, making it stable. The battery’s placement also helps with handling.

The SEALION 7’s range andenergy efficiency are great for daily use. The Premium model goes 482km on a full charge. The Performance model goes 456km.

In my tests in New Zealand, the Performance model used about 19kWh/100km. This is good for its size and power. It’s competitive in the electric SUV market.

The range is less than the BYD Seal sedan, but it’s enough for daily driving. The car’s efficiency is impressive, showing power and practicality can work together.

The regenerative braking system has different levels. This lets drivers choose how they want to drive. At the highest level, it’s easy to drive on one pedal in the city. This makes the car even more efficient.

The BYD SEALION 7’s interior shows BYD’s focus on comfort and practicality. After exploring the cabin, I found it offers a premium feel at a great price. It stands out with its smart tech and useful features.

Stepping into the SEALION 7, you’ll find a surprisingly roomy interior. The panoramic glass roof makes it feel even more spacious. The floating center console adds both style and storage.

The quality of materials in the cabin is top-notch. The quilted leather seats, even in the base model, are both stylish and supportive. Soft-touch surfaces are everywhere, showing BYD’s attention to detail.

The dashboard is well-designed, blending digital and physical controls. Satin metallic finishes and thoughtful button placement make it easy to use. The design is modern but not too futuristic.

The SEALION 7’s highlight is its 15.6-inch touchscreen. It can switch between landscape and portrait modes. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, working smoothly.

BYD has added smart touches to the interface. For example, a three-finger swipe changes the climate without leaving apps. The voice control system is also very accurate and easy to use.

“The SEALION 7’s interface manages to be feature-rich without overwhelming the driver – a delicate balance that many manufacturers struggle to achieve in today’s connected car environment.”

The 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster is part of the tech package. It can sometimes be hard to see in bright light. The head-up display is a great safety feature, showing important info without taking your eyes off the road.

The SEALION 7 is very versatile for daily use. It has 500 liters of space in the back and an extra 58 liters in the frunk. This is perfect for keeping charging cables or small items separate.

The SEALION 7 excels in rear passenger comfort. The flat floor and plenty of legroom make it great for long trips. The panoramic roof doesn’t cut down on headroom.

BYD has added many practical touches to the cabin. There are lots of USB ports and storage bins. The rear seats can fold to increase cargo space, and the boot floor adjusts for more versatility.

The driver’s seat has great visibility, thanks to large mirrors and clear forward sight. The rear view is a bit limited, but the backup camera helps a lot. The SEALION 7 successfully balances style with substance, making it perfect for both daily drives and longer trips.

The BYD SEALION 7 shows that safety is a top priority. It has advanced protection systems and autonomous driving tech. BYD has made a car that is safe and performs well.

The SEALION 7 has many safety features, even in lower trim levels. It comes with airbags, electronic stability control, and collision avoidance systems. These features help prevent accidents.

I was impressed by the front and rear cross-traffic alert systems. They are usually found in more expensive cars. The traffic sign recognition and forward and rear collision warnings worked well without being too sensitive.

The blind-spot detection is noteworthy. It shows clear signs in the side mirrors and can display camera views in the dashboard. This helps with limited rear visibility.

The SEALION 7 hasn’t gotten its Euro NCAP safety rating yet. But BYD says it meets strict safety standards.

BYD’s Han EV got a five-star rating in China’s C-NCAP. This makes us hopeful about the SEALION 7’s crash test results.

The car’s body is strong and has crumple zones. It uses high-strength steel and smart design for safety. We’ll wait for official ratings to confirm.

The SEALION 7 stands out with its autonomous driving features. Its ADAS suite offers a semi-autonomous driving experience. It reduces driver fatigue without being too ambitious.

The adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist work well together. They keep the car in its lane on highways. The intelligent speed adaptation adjusts to speed limits automatically.

The systems in the SEALION 7 are well-calibrated. They don’t feel jumpy or too cautious. The forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking are effective without causing panic.

The driver monitoring system is smart and unobtrusive. It checks if you’re paying attention without being annoying. This makes the autonomous driving features safe and enjoyable.

The SEALION 7 doesn’t have full autonomous driving. But its systems work together well. They make driving feel advanced and safe.

I’ve looked closely at the BYD SEALION 7’s charging and battery tech. BYD’s background in batteries gives them a big edge in power systems. They’ve made big strides in battery design, charging, and efficiency.

The SEALION 7 has an 82.56kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) Blade battery. This is a big step forward in EV battery tech.

The Blade battery’s design is unique. Its cells are shaped like blades to pack more energy and reduce safety risks. I was impressed by its safety, longer life, and better heat control compared to others.

The LFP chemistry is also eco-friendly and could save money over time. It shows BYD’s focus on both performance and ethics in EV batteries.

The SEALION 7 works well with current charging infrastructure. At home, it charges at up to 11kW, filling the battery in 8-9 hours. This is great for charging at night when rates are low.

On the road, it can charge up to 150kW, topping off 10-80% in 30-35 minutes. While not the fastest, it’s practical for everyday use. It matches most public fast-chargers in New Zealand.

It also has V2L functionality, letting it power external devices. I tested it by running a small fridge at the beach, and it worked perfectly. This is handy for outdoor use or power outages.

The SEALION 7 shows BYD’s skill in electric vehicles. Its LFP battery, thermal management, and power distribution lead to good energy use.

In Auckland, I saw it use about 19kWh/100km in city driving. This is impressive for its size and power. The heat pump helps in cold weather, keeping range consistent all year.

The battery management system is smart too. It adjusts charging based on temperature and charge level. This helps keep the battery efficient and long-lasting, showing BYD’s battery know-how.

My tests of the BYD SEALION 7 showed it tackles range anxiety well. It also feels premium. After driving it for many kilometers, I know how it performs in New Zealand’s daily driving.

The SEALION 7’s suspension is firmer than other BYD models. This makes it feel more European. It gives you a sense of quality and stability.

It handles small bumps well but shows some road chatter. Yet, it stays smooth over big bumps. The ride is firm but not too hard.

The single-motor Premium model accelerates smoothly for daily use. The dual-motor Performance model is quicker, reaching 100km/h in about 4.5 seconds. But, it’s heavier.

The SEALION 7 is heavy, which affects cornering. It understeers when cornering hard. The single-motor Premium model is better for most drivers, balancing performance and range.

The SEALION 7 is good for light off-road use. Its ground clearance is enough for gravel roads and small obstacles.

The all-wheel drive Performance model helps in slippery conditions. It’s great for winter or rural roads. But, it’s not for serious off-roading.

• Adequate ground clearance for light off-road use
• All-wheel drive available in Performance variant
• Traction control systems work effectively on loose surfaces
• Best suited for gravel roads and moderate terrain

The SEALION 7 impresses with its quiet cabin. It’s quiet at highway speeds, making long drives easier. This adds to its premium feel.

It’s quiet because it’s electric. But, in very hot weather, you might hear a fan. This makes a slight buzz in the steering wheel and seat.

The SEALION 7’s range info and driving dynamics ease range anxiety. The range estimator is accurate, giving you confidence. With New Zealand’s fast-charging network, it’s a practical choice for electric driving.

To understand the BYD SEALION 7, I’ve compared it with its main rivals. The electric SUV market is very competitive. By looking at how the SEALION 7 stacks up, we can see its unique value and if it’s right for you.

The Tesla Model Y is a top seller in electric SUVs. It’s the third best-selling SUV in New Zealand. The Toyota RAV4 and Mitsubishi Outlander have sold more in the first nine months of 2024.

The Model Y has a longer range, up to 570km. Tesla’s Supercharger network is also a big plus. But, the SEALION 7 is expected to be cheaper and have a more traditional interior.

The SEALION 7 and Ford Mustang Mach-E are quite different. The Mach-E is sporty and fast. The SEALION 7 is more practical for daily use.

Both have similar ranges, but the Mach-E costs more. Ford’s dealers are more widespread, but BYD is growing fast in New Zealand.

The SEALION 7 is better for families, with more space and storage. It’s a good choice if you want value over performance.

The SEALION 7 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 are interesting rivals. The Ioniq 5 is known for its design and fast charging. It’s also priced well, making it a strong competitor.

The Ioniq 5 charges faster, going from 10% to 80% in 18 minutes. This is great for long trips. But, the SEALION 7 has more space and a more traditional look.

Both cars are great for zero emissions. The Ioniq 5 focuses on tech and design, while the SEALION 7 is more practical. The Ioniq 5 is a bit cheaper, but both are more affordable than the Audi Q6 e-tron.

In all, the SEALION 7 is a great value. It doesn’t cut corners on features or performance. It makes electric cars more accessible to everyone.

The BYD SEALION 7 offers a great value that’s worth looking into. It’s priced well against other electric SUVs like the BMW iX1 and Tesla Model Y. It’s also cheaper than luxury models like the Audi Q6 e-tron.

While the Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 are cheaper, the SEALION 7’s value shines in other areas. Let’s dive into what makes it a smart long-term choice.

BYD shows faith in their SEALION 7 with long warranties. They offer a 6-year/150,000km vehicle warranty and an 8-year/160,000km battery warranty. This is key because batteries are the most expensive part of an electric car.

Service for the SEALION 7 is less frequent than for gas cars. Maintenance mainly includes:

• Tires and wheel alignment
• Brake system components
• Cabin air filters
• Cooling system inspection

This means fewer trips to the service center and lower costs over time.

The BYD SEALION 7 is a smart long-term investment. Its starting price is competitive, matching or beating European rivals at a lower cost.

Running costs are much lower than gas cars. Electric costs are 30-40% less per kilometer. Charging at home during off-peak hours can save even more.

Insurance costs are similar to other cars of the same price. Some New Zealand insurers might charge a bit more for electric cars. But this is changing as EVs become more common.

The SEALION 7’s design means fewer parts can go wrong. Regenerative braking also reduces brake wear. This can save owners 40-50% in costs over five years compared to gas SUVs.

Getting parts for the SEALION 7 is getting easier. BYD is expanding globally, including New Zealand, and their parts network is growing fast.

They have set up regional centers for quick part delivery. Owners report easy access to common parts, with specialized ones arriving in a reasonable time.

The SEALION 7 is designed for easy service. This makes repairs simpler and cheaper when needed.

BYD’s own manufacturing of key parts helps ensure quality and availability. This strategy gives them an edge in keeping parts in stock.

For collision repairs, parts are becoming easier to get as BYD grows its market share. Body shops generally have good experiences with parts, though some may need to order from regional centers.

In summary, the BYD SEALION 7 is a great choice for buyers. It offers a good starting price, low running costs, strong warranties, and improving support. This makes it a smart pick for those looking at electric SUVs.

The BYD SEALION 7 is a leader in green driving. It goes beyond just being electric. BYD, a top electric car maker, focuses on being eco-friendly from start to finish. This shows how cars can help the planet.

BYD starts being green at its factories. They use solar power, recycle water, and have energy-saving tools. These steps cut down on pollution from making cars.

BYD controls more of the supply chain. This lets them set strict green standards. It helps lower emissions at every step of making the car.

BYD’s size lets them invest in clean tech. This gives the SEALION 7 big environmental wins. It’s good for the planet and doesn’t cost more.

Electric vehicles are only as sustainable as the processes that create them. BYD’s integrated approach ensures the SEALION 7 delivers environmental benefits from factory to road to recycling.

The SEALION 7 has no tailpipe emissions. But BYD looks at all emissions, from making energy to driving. This is a big step for the environment.

Its battery doesn’t need cobalt, a material linked to bad mining. This shows BYD cares about the planet and people. They aim for sustainable mobility.

The SEALION 7 also saves energy. Its heat pump works well in cold weather. This is great for New Zealand’s changing weather.

BYD has a smart plan for when the SEALION 7’s battery runs out. They recycle it, getting materials for new batteries. This cuts down on mining.

Before recycling, they use old batteries for other things. This makes them last longer. It’s good for the planet.

The SEALION 7’s battery design is also smart. It makes recycling easier and cheaper. This shows BYD’s dedication to sustainable mobility.

In New Zealand, people want cars that are good for the planet. The SEALION 7 meets this need. It’s green, but also fast and easy to use.

Spending time with the BYD SEALION 7 has shown me its great value in the EV market. It offers practical features, strong performance, and good prices. This makes it a top choice for many.

The SEALION 7 stands out with its high-quality interior, strong performance, and safety features. It rides smoothly and has a big, practical cabin. This makes it great for families.

But, it has some downsides. The charging speed is slower than some competitors. The rear view is limited by the design. The digital display can get glare in some lights. The braking system could be stronger, and a one-pedal option would be nice.

This car is perfect for families who want a big SUV that’s easy on the wallet. Tech lovers will enjoy the advanced system and vehicle-to-load feature. Those who value luxury but don’t want to spend a lot will like it too. First-time EV buyers will find it easy to use and have a good range.

BYD is growing fast, so we can expect the SEALION 7 to get even better. Look for updates that make it more functional and possibly better brakes. Their battery tech could lead to longer range or faster charging in the future.

The SEALION 7 shows how fast EV tech is improving. It’s not perfect, but it meets the main needs of electric cars. For many, it could be the perfect first EV.

The BYD SEALION 7 comes in two versions. The Premium model has a rear-wheel drive and 230kW of power. It also has 380Nm of torque. The Performance model has a dual-motor setup, delivering 390kW and 690Nm.

Both models use an 82.56kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) Blade battery. The Premium model can go up to 482km on a single charge. The Performance model has a range of 456km. It measures 4830mm in length, 1925mm in width, and 1620mm in height.

The Premium model goes from 0-100km/h in 6.7 seconds. The Performance model is much quicker, reaching 0-100km/h in 4.5 seconds. BYD has made the power delivery smooth, making it easy for drivers to adjust from traditional cars.

The SEALION 7 has a huge 15.6-inch touchscreen that can switch between landscape and portrait modes. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. You also get a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a head-up display.

Other features include wireless phone charging, multiple USB ports, and vehicle-to-load functionality. This lets you power external devices.

The SEALION 7 has 500 liters of rear storage and an extra 58-liter frunk. The 60/40 split-folding rear seats offer more space when needed. The height-adjustable boot floor adds to its versatility.

Rear passengers enjoy plenty of knee room, headroom, and a flat floor. This makes three-across seating more comfortable.

The SEALION 7 comes with multiple airbags, electronic stability control, and a range of collision avoidance systems. It also has front and rear cross-traffic alert systems, blind-spot detection, and adaptive cruise control.

Other safety features include traffic sign recognition, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.

The SEALION 7 can charge at up to 11kW AC, taking about 8-9 hours with a home wallbox. For fast-charging, it accepts up to 150kW DC. This allows for a 10-80% charge in 30-35 minutes.

The SEALION 7 uses an 82.56kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) “Blade Battery.” This battery is safer, lasts longer, and has better thermal stability than some other lithium-ion batteries. The unique blade-shaped cells maximize energy density and reduce thermal runaway risks.

The Tesla Model Y has a slightly longer range and access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. But the SEALION 7 is priced more competitively, with a more conventional interior and arguably better build quality. The SEALION 7 Performance model’s acceleration is on par with the Model Y Performance.

BYD offers a 6-year/150,000km vehicle warranty and an 8-year/160,000km battery warranty. This is important for EV buyers worried about battery replacement costs.

BYD makes the SEALION 7 zero-emission and uses green manufacturing processes. The LFP battery chemistry eliminates cobalt and has lower production emissions than some alternatives. BYD also has a closed-loop battery recycling system and promotes second-life applications for batteries.

In real-world tests, the SEALION 7 Performance model uses about 19kWh/100km in urban driving. This is reasonable for its size and capabilities. The inclusion of a heat pump enhances efficiency in cold weather, where many EVs struggle.

The SEALION 7 has an Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) suite for semi-autonomous driving on highways. The systems are well-calibrated and avoid the over-sensitivity seen in some ADAS. It also includes driver monitoring for alerts without being intrusive.

The SEALION 7 eases range anxiety with its accurate range estimator and consistent efficiency. This makes planning journeys straightforward. Its decent range and fast-charging capability make it practical for drivers concerned about electric mobility.

The SEALION 7 starts at $54,990 for the Premium model and $63,990 for the Performance model. This competitive pricing, along with generous standard equipment, makes it a value-oriented choice in the premium electric SUV segment.

The SEALION 7 features a connected car system through its infotainment system. The 15.6-inch touchscreen includes a three-finger swipe gesture for climate control adjustments. It offers smartphone integration, navigation, and vehicle monitoring, creating a seamless digital experience.