BYD Seal AWD Review
Rarely does a new car enter the market with as much hype and attention as the BYD Seal AWD. This particular model, in the Excellence trim, comes packed with features that are sure to grab your interest. With a WLTP range of 323 miles and a price just under £49,000, it’s positioned competitively in the ever-expanding electric vehicle (EV) market. But what really makes this car stand out? Let’s dive into the details.
Performance and Range
The BYD Seal AWD offers impressive performance with a 0-62 mph time of just 3.8 seconds. There’s also a rear-wheel-drive entry-level model available, which trades a bit of that speed for a slightly longer range and a lower price point, making it a tempting option for most buyers.
A Growing Brand
BYD might be a new name in the UK automotive scene, but it’s no stranger to innovation. Already known for the ATTO 3 and Dolphin, BYD has established itself as a serious contender in the EV market. Fun fact: BYD produces 50% of the world’s iPads and recently outsold Tesla in Q3 2023, marking a significant shift in the global EV landscape.
BYD has done an exceptional job with the Seal, especially considering it’s their first entry into this highly competitive segment.
Design and Styling
One of the Seal’s strong points is its design. The exterior is sleek, modern, and undeniably eye-catching. The rear design, in particular, is futuristic yet familiar, with features like a stylish rear diffuser, clever vents, and a cool light design. The overall look is something that stands out on the road, and yes, those poppy door handles are a nice touch!
Interior Comfort
Step inside, and you’ll find a spacious and well-thought-out cabin. Rear passengers are treated to ample legroom, making it comfortable for long journeys. The quality of materials is high, with leatherette seats, soft-touch materials, and a panoramic glass roof that keeps the interior bright and airy. However, a minor design flaw is the placement of the USB ports, which could be more accessible.
Front Cabin Features
The front cabin is equally impressive with a mix of premium materials, including Alcantara-effect trim and a well-designed central armrest. The infotainment screen is the centerpiece, rotating between landscape and portrait modes. However, the user interface could use some refinement, and it’s disappointing that Apple CarPlay only works when plugged in, especially in a 2024 model. The driver’s display, while functional, feels a bit like an afterthought and could benefit from a design update.
Driving Experience
On the road, the BYD Seal AWD delivers a firm yet engaging ride. The suspension can be a bit bouncy on uneven surfaces, but it shines when cornering, offering a sporty driving feel. The driving position is low and sporty, adding to the overall dynamic experience. The regenerative braking system, while effective, feels slightly more binary than its competitors, which may take some getting used to.
Technology and Safety
The Seal comes with all the modern driver assistance features you’d expect, earning it a five-star Euro NCAP rating. However, some features, like the placement of the USB ports, feel less intuitive. And if you’re not a fan of certain driver aids, you’ll need to turn them off every time you start the car, which can be a bit of a hassle.
Battery and Charging
The BYD Seal AWD features an LFP battery with BYD’s Blade Battery Technology, known for its durability and safety. While it lags slightly behind competitors like Tesla in terms of efficiency, delivering about 3.2 miles per kWh, it’s still a solid performer. However, the 150 kW maximum charging speed could be faster, especially when compared to rivals.
Final Thoughts
BYD has done an exceptional job with the Seal, especially considering it’s their first entry into this highly competitive segment. While it’s not perfect, with a few minor flaws, it’s a very strong contender. The pricing is close to Tesla’s Model 3, which might be a tough sell for some, but competitive leasing options could make it a more appealing choice.
Conclusion
The BYD Seal AWD is a strong alternative for those looking beyond Tesla. Its design, performance, and tech make it a compelling option. Whether it’s enough to lure you away from other top EVs like the Tesla Model 3, Hyundai Ioniq 6, or Polestar 2, will ultimately come down to personal preference. But one thing’s for sure — BYD is a brand to watch.
To find out the latest lease prices for a BYD Seal AWD Review, Click here.
