Details firm on seven-seat BYD Sealion 8

BYD is set to introduce its first seven-seat SUV into Australian showrooms following what it says is strong consumer interest in the model.

The Sealion 8 is a plug-in hybrid large SUV that will compete alongside the Chery Tiggo 9 ($59,990 before on-road costs), Kia Sorento GT-Line PHEV ($84,660 + ORC) and Mazda CX-80 PHEV (from $75,250 + ORC), as well as the Toyota Kluger.

It rides on locally tuned suspension and is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with dual electric motors.

BYD says the combination offers the smoothness of a battery electric vehicle (BEV) and intelligent switching between two- and all-wheel drive.

Said to be capable of accelerating from standstill to 100km/h in as little as 4.9 seconds, the Sealion 8 develops 205kW and 315Nm in front-wheel drive format or 359kW and 675Nm with the optional all-wheel-drive system.

To be sold locally in three trim grades – Dynamic FWD, Dynamic AWD, and Premium AWD – BYD says the front-wheel drive Sealion 8 is capable of travelling up to 103km (NEDC) on electric power alone courtesy of a 19kWh lithium battery, while the all-wheel drive duo can travel a claimed 152km (NEDC) on electric power due to a larger 35.6kWh battery.

While BYD is yet to confirm full specifications, equipment levels, or pricing, it has listed technology highlights that include a central 15.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, 10.25-inch digital instrument panel, a 50-watt wireless device charging pad, an “immersive” 21-speaker sound system, and front and rear massaging seats.

A “full array” of safety and driver assistance technologies are assured with highlights to include nine airbags and a 360-degree camera system.

GoAuto understands that further details on the model range will be announced closer to the model’s launch.

“The Sealion 8 is built for anyone who wants to drive the future, today,” said BYD Australia chief operating officer Stephen Collins.

“As BYD’s most advanced SUV yet, the Sealion 8 offers a level of versatility and comfort that is perfect for Australian families.

“We’ve been blown away with the interest in this vehicle, and that’s why BYD is determined to make it available in the Australian market as soon as possible.”

The BYD Sealion 8 will be available to order from December.