BYD Sealion 5 DM-i Review: A Sensible Plug-In Hybrid SUV With Substantial Range
The BYD Sealion 5 DM-i represents the Chinese brand's latest foray into the competitive plug-in hybrid SUV market, offering family-focused transport with an emphasis on value and efficiency. Priced from £29,995, this newcomer aims to undercut established rivals while delivering impressive claimed ranges of up to 631 miles on a full charge and tank.
Market Position and Pricing Strategy
Positioned between the smaller Atto 2 DM-i and larger Seal U DM-i in BYD's lineup, the Sealion 5 targets the heart of the family SUV segment. Its pricing strategy places it directly against conventional petrol and diesel alternatives of similar size, as well as plug-in hybrid competitors like the Chery Tiggo 7 and Geely Starray, both hovering around the £30,000 mark.
BYD's remarkable growth story continues in the UK, where it has become the sixth best-selling brand with over 51,000 vehicles sold in 2025. The Sealion 5 becomes the brand's ninth model available to British buyers, arriving as the company prepares to introduce its premium Denza brand later this year.
Powertrain and Performance Characteristics
Both Comfort and Design trim levels utilise BYD's DM-i plug-in hybrid system, combining a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor for a total output of 209bhp. Power is delivered to the front wheels through a single-speed transmission designed primarily for efficiency rather than driver engagement.
The Comfort version completes the 0-62mph sprint in 7.7 seconds, while the heavier Design model takes 8.1 seconds. On the road, the Sealion 5 feels sedate rather than brisk, with acceleration delivered in a relaxed manner even in Sport mode. The petrol engine becomes noticeably more vocal during sudden acceleration, reminiscent of CVT-equipped hybrids.
Range, Efficiency and Charging Capabilities
Where the Sealion 5 truly impresses is in its efficiency credentials. The Comfort model's 12.96kWh battery enables up to 38 miles of electric-only driving, while the Design version's larger 18.3kWh battery extends this to 53 miles. For many commuters, this provides sufficient range for daily journeys without using petrol.
BYD claims a combined range of up to 631 miles for the Design variant when fully charged and fuelled, making the vehicle well-suited to long-distance travel without frequent refuelling stops. Charging is limited to 3.3kW AC, resulting in relatively lengthy home charging times compared to some rivals, though this is typical for plug-in hybrids at this price point. Vehicle-to-load functionality is included, allowing the battery to power external devices when required.
Driving Dynamics and Road Manners
During testing in Telford, Shropshire, the Sealion 5 proved easy and predictable to drive across various road types including motorways, dual carriageways, and country lanes. Visibility stands out as a particular strength, aided by large windows, well-positioned mirrors, and effective camera systems.
The steering presents an unusual characteristic - it feels quite heavy and lacks self-centring assistance, which requires some adaptation. Despite this substantial steering weight, it doesn't deliver significant feedback to the driver. Body control remains composed through corners despite the vehicle's tall stance, though some wheelspin may occur during hard acceleration from junctions.
The ride quality leans toward the firm side, feeling sportier than necessary for a family-focused SUV. While not harsh or jarring, some buyers might prefer a slightly softer setup in exchange for marginally reduced body control.
Interior Quality and Practicality Considerations
Inside, the Sealion 5 impresses with its build quality for the price point. The design features flowing lines and a surfboard-style dashboard that creates a modern, slightly futuristic aesthetic. Material quality is generally high, with vegan leather upholstery that looks and feels premium, though some shiny silver trim elements appear somewhat dated.
Rear seat space represents a particular strength, with a flat floor creating decent legroom and ample headroom for adult passengers. This makes the Sealion 5 a sensible choice for families, especially during longer journeys. Front-seat comfort is good, with electrically adjustable heated seats fitted to Design models.
The boot offers 463 litres of space, expanding to 1,410 litres with the rear seats folded. The load area provides useful dimensions with a low floor, though accessing it requires using a release located near the number plate, which can prove inconvenient in wet or dirty conditions.
Technology and Infotainment Systems
All versions come equipped with a 12.8-inch central touchscreen paired with an 8.8-inch digital instrument display. The main screen responds well and generally functions effectively, though some features require familiarisation. Three-finger swipe controls for temperature and fan speed represent clever innovations in theory, though they would benefit from an automatic fan speed setting.
The driver display provides comprehensive information but can feel somewhat busy, with the speed readout potentially benefiting from larger presentation for easier reading at a glance. Wireless smartphone mirroring is included, though occasional issues with audio behaviour following navigation prompts have been noted, particularly when managing different volume settings for media, navigation, and voice guidance.
The audio system delivers adequate performance rather than outstanding quality, offering reasonable punch and clarity without distinguishing itself within its class. Driver assistance systems are comprehensive and generally less intrusive than in some rivals, though the driver monitoring feature can occasionally prove overzealous.
Running Costs and Warranty Coverage
Running costs should prove competitive, particularly for drivers who regularly charge and utilise the electric-only range. CO2 emissions remain low for a vehicle of this size, and the extended combined range reduces the frequency of fuel stops. BYD's warranty coverage represents a significant advantage, offering reassurance for buyers considering a newer brand in the market.
The Comfort model starts at £29,995, with the Design version priced at £32,995. The step up to Design brings a larger battery, extended electric range, and additional convenience features. BYD's Blade battery technology comes with eight years or 155,000 miles of warranty cover, representing one of the strongest battery warranties available in the market.
Final Verdict and Competitive Positioning
The Sealion 5 DM-i prioritises value, range, and ease of use over excitement or driver involvement, largely succeeding on these terms. It provides comfortable, spacious, and well-equipped family transport with a plug-in hybrid system that makes practical sense for everyday use.
Strengths include excellent visibility, impressive interior quality for the money, and substantial distance between refuelling stops. Areas for improvement encompass the firm ride quality, unusual steering characteristics, and some infotainment system quirks that require refinement.
As a sensibly priced plug-in hybrid SUV, the Sealion 5 accomplishes precisely what it sets out to achieve, offering family buyers a compelling alternative to conventional petrol and diesel SUVs while delivering meaningful electric-only capability without premium pricing.
