The BYD Sealion 7 marks a shift in the Chinese automaker’s naming strategy, aligning its SUVs under the “Sealion” moniker while retaining its existing lineup. As the SUV counterpart to the BYD Seal sedan—much like the Tesla Model Y is to the Model 3—the Sealion 7 aims to cater to a broader audience, offering increased practicality and ground clearance. But does one of the most promising auto launches of 2025 deliver on the hype? Let’s find out.
Exterior Design
At 4.8 meters in length with a 2.9-meter wheelbase, the Sealion 7 is a sizable SUV. Its sloping roofline and sculpted curves give it a compact look, though the proportions don’t feel as refined as its sedan sibling. The taller nose adds a bit of visual bulk, but black contrast trim, large wheel arches (housing 19-inch or 20-inch wheels), and an aggressive rear diffuser help balance the design. While the “Ocean X” styling language carries over, it doesn’t feel as effortlessly sleek as the Seal sedan.
Interior Design and Comfort
BYD continues its shift towards a more conventional interior layout, moving away from its earlier, more eccentric designs. The cabin features high-quality materials with gloss black plastic accents, though it lacks a distinct personality.
A key highlight is the massive rotating touchscreen, which now includes a permanent shortcut bar and improved Apple CarPlay integration. However, usability still suffers from wonky translations and cluttered menus. Rear passengers enjoy ample legroom, but the high floor compromises seating comfort. Cargo space is comparable to the Hyundai Ioniq 5, including a useful 58-liter frunk, though accessing it can be fiddly.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
The Sealion 7 comes with a single battery option: an 82.56kWh Blade Cell LFP pack. Two powertrain choices offer different performance levels:
- RWD version: 310hp, 380Nm torque, 567km (NEDC range)
- AWD version: 530hp, 690Nm torque, 542km (NEDC range), 0-100kph in 4.5s
In real-world conditions, the single-motor version delivers an estimated 500 km range. Charging speeds reach 150kW on a DC fast charger, 11kW on an AC charger, but disappointingly, the home wallbox charger is capped at 7kW.
Driving dynamics reveal the Sealion 7’s comfort-focused nature. The AWD model offers seamless power delivery and impressive grip, but the SUV’s weight and high center of gravity lead to noticeable body roll. Steering is ultra-responsive but feels mismatched with the car’s softer suspension setup. While acceleration is smooth, triple-digit speeds expose more external noise, particularly at the rear.
Technology and Safety Features
The Sealion 7’s tech suite includes advanced driver assistance systems, but their execution is flawed. The overspeed warning dims the music, lane-keeping assist can feel intrusive, and the driver monitoring system inconsistently nags at mirror checks. Other tech highlights include:
- Vehicle-to-load (VTL) functionality for charging external devices
- Rotating touchscreen with improved UI (though still lacking refinement)
- LFP-based 12V system, reducing battery drain during inactivity
Practicality and Usability
With a 170mm ground clearance, the Sealion 7 offers improved road presence over the Seal sedan. Practical features include:
- Generous rear legroom (albeit with compromised seating position)
- Decent cargo space with a shallow boot and small frunk
- Soft yet supportive seats for long journeys
The Final Word
The BYD Sealion 7 is a logical evolution for the brand, catering to the growing demand for luxury electric SUVs. It offers commendable range, decent practicality, and improved infotainment. However, it falls short in key areas—handling, assisted driving tech, and overall refinement—where competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and BMW iX1 LWB provide stronger alternatives.
For those seeking an electric SUV with long-range capability and everyday usability, the Sealion 7 is a contender. But if you prioritize driving engagement or cutting-edge tech execution, better options exist at the estimate ex-showroom price of Rs. 55-60 lakhs.
