Video Summary
The BYD SEAL U DMI is a Volkswagen Tiguan/Kia Sportage-sized SUV that comes as standard with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. It offers more than 200 horsepower and approximately a 50-mile EV range. It comes standard with a 15.6-inch infotainment screen, digital dials, vegan leather seats, and a panoramic sunroof. It’s priced similar to a mid-spec Vauxhall Astra.The design is fairly generic. The quality is good with consistent panel gaps and nice bodywork creases. The paint has a pearlescent fleck. However, the paint finish on the bumper differs slightly from the bodywork’s paint.
The boot space is small at 425 liters, and the loading floor can only be lowered by an inch or two. Rear seats don't have trunk levers for lowering them. They can be lowered, though. The rear seats are roomy and comfortable with air vents and USB-C chargers, and can accommodate three people as a flat floor allows for a third person. The front of the interior has a nice finish, high-quality materials, soft touch, and different textures. The crystal drive selector is a good touch.
The infotainment screen is similar to a tablet; the touch system can be annoying at times. It is slow and hard to adjust driving assistance or other features during driving. It comes with Android Auto and Apple Carplay. The digital dials can appear cluttered.
The ride is comfort-oriented, but has a loose body control. Regenerative braking is not strong. Performance is fast with a 0-62 time of 5.9.
Each trim has a plug-in hybrid powertrain but specifications vary. It offers an overall range of over 500 miles.
This could be a breakthrough car for BYD. It might be worth looking at as it is a less expensive choice compared to Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson or a VW Tiguan.
