BYD Sealion 07 DM-i 2025 Price, Features & Review – A Bold New Hybrid SUV
The 2025 BYD Sealion 07 DM-i is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) mid-size crossover SUV from BYD’s Ocean Series, blending electric efficiency with gasoline range. Launched in China in April 2024, it builds on the Sealion 7’s design but uses BYD’s Super DM-i hybrid system, competing with the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Honda CR-V e:HEV. Its sleek “Ocean X” styling, advanced tech, and 1,000+ km range make it a compelling choice for eco-conscious buyers globally.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price Range | – USA: $26,300 – $31,800 (est., converted from China) – Pakistan: PKR 7,500,000 – PKR 9,000,000 (est., imported) – India: ₹22 lakh – ₹28 lakh (est., if launched) |
| Variants | Elite, Deluxe, Premium, Ultimate (China); expected single trim globally |
| Powertrain | Plug-in hybrid (PHEV): 1.5L 4-cylinder (100 hp) + electric motor (194 hp, 325 Nm); combined 215 hp |
| Battery | 18.3 kWh LFP Blade Battery |
| Transmission | E-CVT (Electric Continuously Variable Transmission) |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive (FWD) |
| Fuel Economy | 5.8 L/100 km (combined); 80-100 km electric range; 1,000+ km total range |
| Dimensions | – Length: 4830 mm – Width: 1925 mm – Height: 1620 mm – Wheelbase: 2930 mm |
| Weight | ~1830 kg |
| Ground Clearance | 150 mm |
| Cargo Space | 520 L (rear), 58 L (frunk), 1789 L (rear seats folded) |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Wheels | 19-inch alloy |
| Infotainment | 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, 10.25-inch driver display |
| Safety Features | 6 airbags, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, auto emergency braking, 360° camera, 5-star Euro NCAP (Sealion 7 base) |
| Interior Features | Vegan leather seats, heated/ventilated front seats, dual-zone AC, 12-speaker Dynaudio system |
| Exterior Features | Ocean X LED headlights, full-width LED taillights, panoramic sunroof, flush door handles |
Powertrain
The Sealion 07 DM-i features a 1.5L Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder engine (100 hp) paired with a 194 hp electric motor, delivering a combined 215 hp and 325 Nm via an E-CVT. The 18.3 kWh LFP Blade Battery provides 80-100 km of electric range, with a total range exceeding 1,000 km with a 60L fuel tank. It achieves 5.8 L/100 km in hybrid mode and supports 18 kW DC fast charging (30-80% in ~35 minutes). The system prioritizes electric driving, with seamless transitions to gas power.
Design and Exterior
Adopting BYD’s “Ocean Aesthetics,” the Sealion 07 DM-i sports a coupe-like SUV profile with a borderless grille, “flying shuttle” LED headlights, and full-width LED taillights with a water-drop pattern. Its 4830 mm length and 2930 mm wheelbase ensure a bold stance, while 19-inch aerodynamic wheels and flush door handles enhance efficiency (0.26 Cd drag coefficient). Color options include Aurora White, Cosmos Black, Shark Grey, and Atlantis Grey.
Interior and Technology
The cabin mirrors the Sealion 7, featuring a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen, 10.25-inch digital cluster, and 50-inch AR head-up display (optional). Vegan leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and 128-color ambient lighting create a premium feel. Tech includes wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a 12-speakerDynaudio system, and OTA updates. The 520L boot expands to 1789L, with a 58L frunk for cables. Rear legroom is generous, though the high floor slightly impacts comfort.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety is robust, with a 5-star Euro NCAP rating (based on Sealion 7). Standard features include 6 airbags, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, auto emergency braking, and a 360° camera. The DiPilot 100 ADAS (China-only) adds 12 ultrasonic sensors and 11 cameras for advanced features like safe-exit warning. A driver monitoring system and ISOFIX mounts enhance family safety.
Performance and Practicality
The Sealion 07 DM-i accelerates from 0-100 km/h in ~8.3 seconds, prioritizing efficiency over sportiness. Its suspension (DiSus-C in China) ensures a comfortable ride, though handling is soft, with noticeable body roll. The 150 mm ground clearance suits urban roads, and the 1,000+ km range eliminates range anxiety. Maintenance is low, with a 6-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty and 8-year/160,000 km battery warranty.
Updates for 2025
Launched in 2024, the 2025 model carries over with minor infotainment tweaks for better Apple CarPlay integration and a permanent shortcut bar. China’s Smart Driving Edition (¥189,800-¥229,800) adds advanced ADAS, but export models stick to standard DiPilot. No major design changes are noted, though global availability may expand in 2025.
Pricing and Availability
- USA: Estimated at $26,300-$31,800, based on China’s ¥189,800-¥229,800 (no confirmed launch).
- Pakistan: Estimated at PKR 7,500,000-PKR 9,000,000 as a CBU import, pending distributor confirmation.
- India: Expected at ₹22 lakh-₹28 lakh if launched (speculative, no official plans). The Sealion 7 EV’s ₹48.90 lakh price suggests a lower entry for the PHEV.
The Sealion 07 DM-i is available in China and select markets (e.g., Philippines as Sealion 6 DM-i). Pakistan and India await confirmation, with India’s EV focus potentially delaying PHEV imports.
Verdict
The 2025 BYD Sealion 07 DM-i combines electric efficiency, long-range versatility, and premium features at a competitive price. Its stylish design, spacious cabin, and advanced safety make it a strong rival to traditional hybrids. While not the sportiest, its 1,000+ km range and low running costs appeal to families and commuters, positioning it as a forward-thinking choice in the global PHEV market.
