BYD has officially launched the Sealion 08, a mid-to-large SUV available in both plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and battery electric (BEV) versions for the Chinese market. The new model comes in eight variants, with prices ranging from $34,125 (~AUD 47,747) to $41,547 (~AUD 58,131). The Sealion 08 combines advanced battery technology, flexible seating, and a suite of high-end features.
Design and Exterior Features
The Sealion 08 is built on BYD’s ‘Ocean Aesthetics 2.0’ design language and is offered in six single-tone colours and two dual-tone options. The front end features distinctive ‘Ice Eye’ daytime running lights, crafted with 132 high-power LED light sources. Buyers can choose between 20-inch or 21-inch wheels, both featuring floating hub caps that keep the logo stationary while driving.
At the rear, a 1,982 mm (~78 inches) gradient taillight is designed to evoke the look of deep-sea tides. The SUV measures 5,115 mm (~201 inches) in length, 1,999 mm (~78.7 inches) in width, and 1,800 mm (~70.9 inches) in height, with a wheelbase of 3,030 mm (~119.3 inches).
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the Sealion 08 is available in both five-seat and six-seat configurations. The digital cockpit features a 17.3-inch central touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 26-inch augmented reality head-up display (AR-HUD).
Front seats offer 8-way electric adjustment, heating, ventilation, and a 10-point massage function. The six-seat version includes ‘zero-gravity’ seats for the driver and rear right passenger, with the latter supporting lateral movement. Rear passengers benefit from a 21.4-inch high-definition ceiling screen and a 25-speaker Devialet sound system with Dolby Atmos. Additional amenities include a 7.3L onboard refrigerator and flexible cargo space: the five-seat version provides a 943L trunk and 201L front trunk, while the six-seat version offers a 317L trunk (expanding to 1,173L with seats folded) and the same 201L front trunk.
Powertrain and Performance
The Sealion 08 is available as both a PHEV and a BEV. The PHEV uses a 1.5T engine with a maximum power of 115 kW. Single-motor PHEV versions deliver 200 kW (268 hp), while dual-motor versions feature two 200 kW (268 hp) motors. Equipped with a 55.843 kWh second-generation Blade Battery, the PHEV offers a CLTC pure electric range of 350 km (~217 miles) to 400 km (~249 miles) and a combined range of up to 1,650 km (~1,025 miles).
The BEV single-motor RWD variant delivers 370 kW (497 hp), while the dual-motor AWD version combines a 215 kW (288 hp) front motor with a 370 kW (497 hp) rear motor. Acceleration for BEV models ranges from 5.9 to 3.9 seconds (0-100 km/h). These versions use a 115.072 kWh second-generation Blade Battery and achieve a CLTC range of 800 km (~497 miles) to 900 km (~559 miles).
Chassis and Technology
The Sealion 08 features a double-wishbone front and five-link rear suspension setup. It is equipped with BYD’s DiSus-A intelligent air suspension system, which enables road preview, active rear-wheel steering, ‘crab walk’ mode, and rollover prevention. The turning radius is 4.95 m (~16.2 feet), enhancing maneuverability for a vehicle of this size.
The SUV is also powered by the ‘God’s Eye 5.0’ intelligent driving system, providing advanced driver assistance and safety features.
Why this matters
The launch of the BYD Sealion 08 expands the company’s SUV lineup with both plug-in hybrid and fully electric options, catering to a wide range of consumer preferences in China’s rapidly evolving new energy vehicle market. With its advanced battery technology, flexible interior configurations, and high-end features, the Sealion 08 aims to attract buyers seeking both performance and comfort in a large SUV.
What this means for buyers
For buyers in China, the BYD Sealion 08 offers a choice between PHEV and BEV powertrains, multiple seating layouts, and a host of luxury features at a competitive price point. Those interested in a technologically advanced, spacious SUV with long range and premium amenities may find the Sealion 08 a strong contender in the segment.
Key Specs
- Price Range: $34,125 (~AUD 47,747) to $41,547 (~AUD 58,131)
- Length: 5,115 mm (~201 inches)
- Width: 1,999 mm (~78.7 inches)
- Height: 1,800 mm (~70.9 inches)
- Wheelbase: 3,030 mm (~119.3 inches)
- PHEV Battery: 55.843 kWh second-generation Blade Battery
- BEV Battery: 115.072 kWh second-generation Blade Battery
- BEV Range (CLTC): 800 km (~497 miles) to 900 km (~559 miles)
Source
Images sourced from: carnewschina.com, carsales.com.au
