BYD will strengthen its rapidly growing line-up of models with the unveiling of the BYD Sealion 5 DM-i plug-in hybrid, its ninth new launch in less than three years.
Pitched as a rival to the Kia Sportage and Nissan Qashqai, the BYD Sealion 5 is also the latest PHEV – referred to as DM-i by BYD - to join the Chinese firm’s range alongside the Seal U, Atto 2 and Seal 6.
The Sealion 5 DM-i represents a major new addition as BYD’s primary contender in the hotly contested SUV segment where models like the Sportage and Qashqai are among the UK’s best-selling models.
Central to the Sealion 5’s appeal is likely to be its PHEV powertrain, which combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with the choice of either a 12.96kWh or 18.3kWh battery for the prospect of electric-only driving that reduces emissions and vastly improves fuel economy.
Producing a combined power output of 209bhp, the Sealion 5 in Comfort trim (12.96kWh battery) returns up to 38-miles of zero emissions driving, while CO2 emissions is quoted at 62g/km and fuel economy exceeding 100mpg.
Opt for the Sealion 5 in Design trim with its 18.3kWh battery and electric range improves to 53 miles, with 48g/km of CO2 emitted and fuel economy of 134.5mpg.
All models come with 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic LED lights, a rear-view camera, vegan leather upholstery and electric seat adjustment.
Upgrade to the flagship Design trim and an electric boot lid, 360-degree cameras, wireless phone charging and heated front seats are also included.
With larger external dimensions than a Sportage, the BYD Sealion 5 DM-i complements its size with generous passenger room for five people, plus a spacious 463-litre boot.
The Sealion 5 slots in below the BYD Seal U, already among the UK’s best-selling plug-in hybrid models, and above the recently launched BYD Atto 2, with the firm predicting the Sealion 5 will become one of its most popular models.
The BYD Sealion 5 DM-i will make its formal UK BYD Vertu showroom debut in early February, but order books are open now.
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