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YD is stepping into the big league with its electric saloon, the BYD Seal, offering a striking combination of style, performance, and tech at a surprisingly affordable price. This car marks a significant leap for the Chinese brand, as it competes with European heavyweights like the VW ID.7, Tesla Model 3, and Polestar 2. If you're looking for a well-rounded, tech-filled, and budget-friendly electric saloon, the Seal could be just the car you never knew you needed.
Price: From €40,567 - €49,836
Power: Choice of 308bhp or 523bhp
Range: Up to 520km
0-100 km/h: 3.8 seconds for the ‘Excellence’ version
Looks and Performance: A Classy, Affordable Contender
The BYD Seal boasts a sleek, low-slung design that borrows elements from high-end models like the Tesla Model 3 and Audi’s e-Tron GT. It's a sophisticated mix of sporty and futuristic, appealing to those who want a head-turner without the premium price tag. Inside, it’s a showcase of high-end materials and tech, including a 15.6” touchscreen that rotates from portrait to landscape mode, adding a cool, functional twist.
The Seal isn’t just about looks. It offers impressive performance too, with two variants: the more affordable Design model that has a 308bhp motor, 570 km range, and 5.9-second 0-100 km/h time, and the Excellence version, which ups the ante with a 523bhp motor and a mind-boggling 3.8-second 0-100 km/h time—faster than some sports cars. With a 520 km range, it combines performance and practicality.
Tech and Drive: Surprising Innovation at a Competitive Price
Packed with tech, the Seal integrates a platform that makes use of a structural battery—something that contributes to its torsional rigidity and low interior floor, enhancing both the drive quality and interior space. It's far more agile than expected, with direct steering and punchy power delivery. Although not quite on the level of Porsche or Tesla, the BYD Seal definitely outperforms many cars at its price point, and for the money, it’s a clear winner.
A Few Quirks
No car is perfect, and the Seal has its drawbacks. The indicator stalk is positioned in an unconventional spot on the right side, which can be confusing and leads to frequent accidental wiper activation. The interior’s ‘duck-egg blue’ trim also leaves much to be desired, as it’s a little too bold for some tastes. But these minor issues are far outweighed by the impressive performance and tech features.
Verdict: A Strong Entry into the EV Market
For a car that’s priced like an entry-level electric vehicle, the BYD Seal punches well above its weight. It’s sleek, fast, tech-heavy, and offers incredible value. While there are a few design quirks, this car is a standout in its segment and a serious contender in the electric saloon market. If you're after a stylish and high-tech electric car without breaking the bank, the BYD Seal is a choice you’ll want to consider.
For the full review orginally published in the Irish Examiner, click here
