BYD has set the car amongst the pigeons with the local launch of the Sealion 5 Plug in Hybrid which incidentally become the cheapest Plug In Hybrid in South Africa. We attended its launch.
The front gets LED Daytime lights with full LED headlights whilst the massive grille dominates the middle and lower part of the design.
The side is characterised by a design line that runs from the front fender to the rear haunches in keeping with the water flowing design. 18 inch alloys comes standard on both spec models (Comfort and Dynamic) finished in black. Roof rails aid practicality for those needing extra carrying space (Thule roof box). The panoramic glass roof comes standard on the top spec model.
The rear side quarter gets silver blade accents that also house the rear side window. A sporty spoiler also comes standard with a shark fin antenna also standard. LED lights are typical Chinese design with the BYD logo on the electrically operated tail gate. Overall, the Sealion 5 is mid size SUV with good design accents that will blend in well on Mzansi roads.
The interior is a mix of leather, good plastics and gloss finishes in a well finished layout.
The 12.8-inch infotainment screen dominates the dash with a screen neatly placed in front of the driver to convey all essential driving information. Intelligent voice control, keyless entry, and wireless charging that guarantees a modern driving experience. Steering wheel controls for the audio and driving functions (Cruise control) are well placed in the leather wrapped steering. Air vents are placed low on the centre console whilst side vents feature silver accents for that quality look.
The leather front seats are electrically operated with the drivers seat getting heating and cooling functions as standard. Packaging space around the front is well catered for with a below centre console space for those bags and other carry on items.
The family-focused touches such as a spacious second row, generous boot, electric tailgate, and 60:40 split-fold rear seats support everyday utility. Rear occupants get their own set of air vents.
Cargo space is quoted at 463 with the seats up and 1410 with the rear seats folded.
Powering the Sealion 5 is a plug in hybrid set up that links a 72kW/122Nm 1.5 - 4-cylinder engine with a 145kW/300Nm electric motor with a total output claimed at 156kW. No figures are quoted for the electric only range but BYD claims 1100km combined range. A CVT drives the front wheels.
The Super Plug-in Hybrid SUV arrives in two variants and prices:
- Sealion 5 Comfort: R499,900
- Sealion 5 Dynamic: R569,900
*Recommended retail price includes VAT. Models also come with a 5 year/100 000km Warranty, 4 years/60 000km Service Plan, 8 years/200 000km Power Battery Warranty and 5 years/100 000km Roadside Assistance.