- Quick
- Decent range
- Good cabin space
- Heavy
- Rolls in the corners
- Light steering
Range (WLTP): 283-312 miles Top Speed: 133mph 0 to 62: 4.5-6.7 sec Efficiency (WLTP): 2.84-3.12 miles per kWh
Introduction
Sea lions, particularly the Californian ocean varieties of this aquatic mammal, are very vocal, to say the least. The growls, grunts, and barks they produce are light-years away from the virtual silence of the Sealion 7. And the name isn't all that accurate either – BYD has chosen to use the words' sea' and ‘lion' together – it's not a typo.
So what's the Sealion 7, then? As you might have inferred from the use of ‘silence,' this new BYD vehicle is electric (as you'd expect here at WhichEV) – and it's an SUV.
The Chinese brand says it's a premium model – and it's not exaggerating. The Sealion 7 is solidly built, good-looking, and has spacious, comfortable accommodation. The five-seat, five-door vehicle is nippy and refined in its ride. BYD is definitely targeting Tesla, namely the new Model Y.
With charging speeds of up to 230 kW and a maximum range of 312 miles, this potent fourth member of BYD's Ocean Series – following in the finned path of the Dolphin, Seal, and Seal U – can do some serious long-distance driving without compromising on performance. With a 133 mph top speed and 0-62 mph time of just 4.5 seconds, the 7 is not just an upscale electric family motor – it's a green statement. So, let's take a closer look at the Sealion 7.
Price and Options
Prices begin at £47,000 for the base Comfort rear-wheel drive (RWD), £52,000 for the mid-spec Design all-wheel drive (AWD), and £59,000 for the Excellence AWD. For comparison, the Tesla Model Y pricing is £44,990 – £51,990.
Not many optional extras are offered on the Sealion 7, simply because BYD has included all the features as standard.
Atlantis Grey (blue-grey) is the standard body paint, but Polar White, Indigo Grey, and Space Black are also available if you’re prepared to let more moths out of your wallet.
The interior colour is black – only the Excellence trim offers a choice, unlocking the alternative Tahiti blue, which, despite what its appellation suggests, is primarily a light, almost white, grey shade with blue undertones.
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