There’s a new name arriving on UK roads, and it might just shake up the family SUV market.

Chinese automotive giant BYD has officially revealed the SEALION 5 DM-i, a plug-in hybrid SUV designed to offer the best of both worlds. It promises electric efficiency, petrol flexibility, strong technology and a price that sits comfortably below many rivals.

With prices starting at £29,995 on the road, the SEALION 5 arrives as BYD’s ninth model in the UK and could become one of the brand’s biggest sellers yet.

For drivers who want to dip their toe into electrification without committing fully to a battery-only car, this might be one worth paying attention to.

Big Range, Small Running Costs

One of the biggest talking points with the SEALION 5 is its clever DM-i plug-in hybrid system.

In simple terms, it combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, giving drivers the smooth, quiet feel of an electric car while still having a petrol engine ready for longer journeys.

The result is impressive:

• Up to 631 miles of combined range
• Up to 53 miles of electric-only driving
• As little as 48g/km of CO₂ emissions
• Fuel economy of up to 134.5mpg

For many everyday journeys, especially commuting or school runs, drivers could travel entirely on electric power. When longer trips come calling, the petrol engine seamlessly takes over.

It’s a practical solution for people who want lower running costs but aren’t ready to rely on charging alone.

A Family SUV That Doesn’t Feel Basic

Despite its competitive price, the SEALION 5 doesn’t feel stripped back.

The entry Comfort model comes packed with kit, including:

• 18-inch alloy wheels
• Automatic LED headlights
• Rear parking sensors and camera
• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane keep assistance
• Electrically folding heated mirrors

Step inside and the tech continues. A 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen sits at the centre of the dashboard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while drivers get an 8.8-inch digital display in front of them.

There’s also voice control through the “Hi BYD” system, allowing drivers to manage features hands-free.

In short, this is not a budget interior.

Premium Feel Without the Premium Price

Inside the SEALION 5, BYD has clearly aimed for comfort.

The cabin features vegan leather upholstery, electrically adjustable seats and generous space for five adults. Rear passengers get plenty of legroom and headroom, while the 463-litre boot offers enough space for family life, shopping runs or a weekend away.

Drivers wanting an extra touch of luxury can move up to the Design trim, priced from £32,995.

This version adds:

• 360-degree camera system
• Electric tailgate
• Wireless phone charging
• Heated front seats
• Front parking sensors
• Welcome lighting

It’s the sort of equipment you’d normally expect in SUVs costing significantly more.

Electric Performance Meets Everyday Practicality

Under the bonnet, the SEALION 5 produces 212PS, meaning it’s no slouch either.

The Comfort model reaches 0 – 62mph in 7.7 seconds, while the Design version completes the sprint in 8.1 seconds.

But performance isn’t the only trick up its sleeve.

The SEALION 5 also features Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology. In simple terms, the car’s battery can power external devices. Think portable coffee machines, camping equipment or even garden tools.

It’s the sort of feature that turns the car into more than just transport.

BYD’s Rapid Rise

If you’ve only recently started hearing the name BYD, you’re not alone.

The brand has grown rapidly in the UK and ended 2025 as the country’s leading New Energy Vehicle manufacturer, covering both fully electric and plug-in hybrid models.

The SEALION 5 expands that lineup further, offering an affordable entry point into the brand’s hybrid technology while still delivering the innovation BYD has become known for.

Colours and Availability

The SEALION 5 DM-i is available in four colours:

• Atlantis Blue
• Obsidian Black
• Time Grey
• Polar White

The model became available to order earlier this year and is now arriving in UK showrooms.

Curious to See It in Person?

If the idea of a 631-mile range hybrid SUV packed with tech and priced under£30k has caught your attention, the next step is simple.

Visit your nearest Sinclair BYD dealership in Cardiff, Bridgend or Swansea to see the SEALION 5 DM-i up close.

You can also explore the full range and specifications online at www.sinclairbyd.co.uk.

It might just be the hybrid SUV you didn’t know you were waiting for.

Find your nearest Sinclair BYD retailer at Cardiff, Bridgend & Swansea.

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