BYD’s latest seven-seater PHEV SUV set to debut in Australia

Another car will join BYD’s Sealion line, and it’s set to debut in Australia next year. BYD Australia has confirmed plans to launch its largest and first seven-seater SUV, the 2026 BYD Sealion 8 plug-in hybrid (PHEV).

Just like the Sealion 6 DM-i currently available in the Philippines, the Sealion 8 is a range-extended electric vehicle. But there’s more to it, BYD is also introducing a performance version called the Sealion 8 DM-p.

Since we’re talking about performance, let’s talk about the power figures. The DM-i system combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing 147 hp and 220 Nm with a front-mounted electric motor generating 268 hp and 315 Nm, paired with a 19 kWh battery. This setup delivers a claimed zero to 100 km/h time of 8.6 seconds.

The flagship DM-p variant adds a 189 hp rear electric motor and upgrades to a larger 35.6 kWh battery, slashing the zero to 100km/h sprint to a claimed 4.9 seconds. This sprint time is enough to embarrass even vehicles with larger engines.

According to BYD in China, the all-wheel-drive version offers up to 200 km of electric-only range based on local testing standards. A total hybrid driving range of up to 1,200 km has also been claimed.

As for interior features, seven seats will come standard in a 2-3-2 layout, with BYD China claiming up to 1,950 litres of cargo space when the second and third rows are folded flat. The premium interior will be available in either black or tan, featuring leather upholstery on the front seats and steering wheel. 

Additional features include ambient lighting, a 50-watt ventilated wireless phone charger, both USB-A and USB-C ports, a built-in fragrance dispenser, and a large panoramic sunroof with an electric sunblind. Because it’s a BYD, a comprehensive suite of advanced safety systems is also expected, including adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assist, and lever-activated assisted lane changes on highways.

Though the Sealion 8 is confirmed to go on sale in Australia, we don’t have any information on which markets will also get this seven-seater PHEV SUV. Hopefully, the Philippines will also get it soon. For now, you can check out the full local lineup of BYD on AutoDeal.com.ph.