Comfort, technology, fuel efficiency: BYD is stepping up its game with the Seal U DM-i, an attractively priced plug-in hybrid family SUV. Already on sale in China, it will soon arrive in Europe, ready to compete with the Peugeot 3008 Hybrid, Toyota RAV4 PHEV, and Hyundai Tucson PHEV.
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The plug-in hybrid SUV market welcomes an ambitious new player: the BYD Seal U DM-i. Designed to appeal to families concerned with energy savings and comfort, this model marks a new milestone in BYD’s European offensive. Drawing on its electric expertise and its in-house DM-i (Dual Mode intelligent) hybrid system, the Seal U aims to establish itself in a highly competitive segment.
A sober yet sophisticated design
The Seal U displays a modern yet measured style. At 4.78 m long and 1.89 m wide, it stands above the segment average. The front fascia echoes the design cues of the latest BYD models with sleek LED headlights, a discreet grille, and a smooth profile. Aerodynamics are not overlooked, with a drag coefficient of 0.29, quite decent for an SUV of this size.
A spacious and technologically advanced interior
On board, the Seal U is a surprise. The presentation makes a good impression with well-chosen materials and a finish that’s a significant improvement over the first exported models. The central feature? A 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen, adjustable in portrait or landscape mode, supported by a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
The seats are wide and comfortable, the rear bench seat offers ample legroom thanks to a 2.78 m wheelbase, and the trunk offers 552 liters under the parcel shelf, more than a Renault Scénic or a Skoda Elroq. A volume that increases to 1,440 liters once the rear seats are folded down.
DM-i Technology: BYD’s Advantage
Under the hood, the Seal U DM-i combines a 98 hp 1.5-liter gasoline engine with a 160 kW electric motor. This is not a simple parallel hybrid: the system functions as a range extender, similar to Honda’s famous system or the now-defunct Opel Ampera.
Combined power: 218 hp
0 to 100 km/h: approximately 9 seconds
Electric range (WLTP): 80 to 110 km depending on the battery (18.3 or 26.6 kWh)
Average consumption: 1.2 l/100 km
Charging can be done with AC current up to 7 kW, or via a DC terminal up to 18 kW, allowing 80% charge recovery in less than 30 minutes (for the large battery).
Driving comfort above all
Designed for smoothness rather than sportiness, the Seal U prioritizes comfort and quiet operation. The suspension filters out imperfections well, and the DM-i system seamlessly switches between pure electric and hybrid mode. The absence of a conventional gearbox allows for smooth acceleration, perfect for urban or highway use.
Competitive Pricing and Generous Equipment
Expected in France from September 2025, the BYD Seal U DM-i will start at €38,900, after bonus deduction. A top-of-the-line « Design » version with a panoramic roof, ventilated seats, and a 360° camera will cost around €44,000. This is aggressive pricing, compared to the Peugeot 3008 Hybrid 225, which starts at over €45,000.
Verdict: A Serious Outsider
With its sleek styling, generous interior space, and advanced hybrid technology, the BYD Seal U DM-i ticks all the boxes for a modern family SUV. While it may not be a champion in terms of dynamism, it makes up for it with its fuel efficiency, quiet operation, and impressive price/equipment ratio. One to watch very closely.
