BYD’s latest plug-in hybrid SUV brings three-row versatility, a spacious cabin and plenty of technology for growing families
Singapore – Seven-seater SUVs have become the default choice for many families, especially those juggling school runs, weekend activities and the occasional cross-border road trip. Looking to tap into that growing demand, BYD Singapore has launched the new BYD Sealion 8 DM-i, a plug-in hybrid SUV that places practicality, comfort and efficiency at the forefront.
Positioned as the brand’s flagship family SUV, the Sealion 8 DM-i combines BYD’s well-established DM-i hybrid technology with a spacious three-row layout capable of accommodating up to seven occupants. A generous 2,950mm wheelbase promises ample room across all three rows, while a flexible cabin layout allows owners to prioritise either passenger comfort or cargo carrying ability depending on the occasion.
Should luggage space be the priority, the SUV offers between 270 litres and 1,960 litres of cargo capacity with the rear seats folded. In other words, there should be enough room for everything from the weekly grocery haul to a family’s worth of holiday baggage.
Comfort appears to be high on BYD’s agenda too. The Sealion 8 DM-i comes equipped with a panoramic glass roof, three-zone climate control, ventilated and heated front seats, as well as dedicated ceiling-mounted air vents for second- and third-row passengers. The second row also benefits from adjustable seating and boss-button functionality, helping make longer journeys a little more pleasant for everyone on board.
Under the bonnet sits BYD’s DM-i hybrid system, pairing a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor and the firm’s Blade Battery technology. Combined output stands at 205kW and 315Nm of torque, delivering the sort of effortless performance expected of a modern family SUV while maintaining impressive efficiency.
Technology also plays a significant role. Dominating the dashboard is a 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, accompanied by a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Wireless connectivity comes via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while intelligent voice control and over-the-air updates help keep the system current long after delivery day.
Safety, meanwhile, is comprehensive. The Sealion 8 DM-i features a 360-degree camera, Blind Spot Detection, Driver Fatigue Monitoring, Door Opening Warning and a full suite of airbags. Advanced driver assistance systems include Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking, Emergency Lane Keeping Assist and Front and Rear Cross Traffic Alert with braking functionality.
With electrified mobility continuing to gain traction in Singapore, the BYD Sealion 8 DM-i arrives as an interesting proposition for buyers who want the efficiency benefits of electrification without committing fully to an EV lifestyle. More importantly, it does so while offering the sort of space and flexibility that modern families increasingly demand.
“The BYD SEALION 8 DM-i represents BYD’s commitment to developing vehicles that meet the evolving needs of today’s drivers,” said Mr James Ng, Managing Director of BYD Singapore and President of BYD Philippines. “By combining advanced DM-i technology with a spacious seven-seater configuration, premium comfort and intelligent safety features, the BYD SEALION 8 DM-i offers families a compelling SUV that is both practical for everyday use and enjoyable for longer journeys.”
The launch price for the the BYD Sealion 8 DM-i was announced at $238,888, inclusive of COE.
