BYD Sealion 07 DM-i

Overview

The 2025 BYD Sealion 07 DM-i marks a strategic evolution in BYD’s push to dominate the global plug-in hybrid SUV market. Slotting into the mid-size crossover segment, the Sealion 07 DM-i blends bold design, practical electric range, and high fuel efficiency with a focus on family functionality. As part of BYD’s Ocean series, it utilizes the company’s latest DM-i (Dual Mode – intelligent) hybrid system, allowing it to operate seamlessly between electric and hybrid modes. With a starting price under ¥190,000 (~$26,300), this SUV is expected to shake up markets both in China and in overseas destinations where BYD has gained traction.

Sitting on the DMO platform—a new hybrid-specific architecture based on the e-Platform 3.0—the Sealion 07 DM-i offers up to 1,200 km of combined range and up to 200 km of pure electric driving (CLTC). Designed by Wolfgang Egger, its sleek, maritime-inspired design language and luxurious yet minimalist interior strike a balance between premium aesthetics and everyday usability. Whether for daily commutes or long family trips, the Sealion 07 DM-i appears well-positioned to compete with other eco-conscious SUVs.

What’s New for BYD 2025?

The Sealion 07 DM-i is an all-new nameplate introduced in 2025 and serves as a showcase for BYD’s next-generation plug-in hybrid technology. Unlike prior hybrids from the brand, the Sealion adopts a purpose-built DMO platform rather than modifying an existing internal combustion base. This results in a more refined driving experience, improved space utilization, and the integration of higher-voltage charging capabilities.

Additionally, it debuts with the fifth-generation DM-i technology, offering significantly extended EV-only range, improved thermal efficiency, and quicker charging. The debut model comes in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, with the latter delivering up to 321 kW (430 hp) for impressive acceleration in a hybrid.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Pricing for the 2025 BYD Sealion 07 DM-i starts from approximately ¥189,800 ($26,300) for the base 121 km EV range model and goes up to about ¥239,800 ($33,200) for the top-spec 200 km dual-motor AWD version.

• Sealion 07 DM-i 121 km FWD – ¥189,800 (est.)
• Sealion 07 DM-i 200 km FWD – ¥209,800 (est.)
• Sealion 07 DM-i 200 km AWD (Dual Motor) – ¥239,800 (est.)

We recommend the 200 km FWD version, which offers the longest EV range for commuters and balances performance and value. Those seeking all-weather traction or sportier performance may want to opt for the AWD trim.

Powertrain, Motor, and Performance

The Sealion 07 DM-i offers multiple powertrain setups depending on the trim. All variants use a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine as a range extender, with two available EHS (electric hybrid system) configurations:

• FWD (single-motor): 160 kW total system power
• AWD (dual-motor): 321 kW total system power (430 hp) and 650 Nm of torque

In AWD guise, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds, which is remarkably fast for a plug-in hybrid SUV of its size. The DMO platform helps distribute weight more effectively, while the low center of gravity and independent multi-link rear suspension provide confident handling.

Unlike traditional hybrids, the Sealion 07 DM-i can drive fully electric under many conditions, with the engine only kicking in when needed for extra power or to recharge the battery. It delivers a smooth, quiet ride in EV mode and brisk acceleration in hybrid boost mode.

Electric Range, Charging, and Battery Life

The Sealion 07 DM-i is available with two battery options:

• 18.3 kWh battery (121 km CLTC range)
• 30.7 kWh battery (200 km CLTC range)

Real-world EV range is expected to be around 95–160 km depending on driving conditions. The hybrid system offers up to 1,200 km of total range with a full charge and fuel tank.

Charging specs include:

• DC fast charging up to 100 kW (30–80% in ~22 minutes)
• AC charging at 6.6 kW (full charge in ~5.5 hours for the 30.7 kWh pack)

The onboard heat pump ensures reliable performance even in cold climates. BYD also includes vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality, allowing the SUV to power small appliances or camping gear from its main battery.

Fuel Economy and Real-World Efficiency

Thanks to its advanced hybrid control unit and high thermal efficiency of the 1.5L engine (over 46%), the BYD Sealion 07 DM-i is among the most efficient PHEVs on the market.

Estimated fuel consumption is:

• FWD models: 1.2–1.5 L/100 km in mixed use
• AWD models: Up to 1.8 L/100 km

Once the battery is depleted, it still returns over 20 km/L (4.8 L/100 km) in hybrid mode, depending on driving style and terrain. For urban dwellers, daily driving can often be done entirely on electricity, minimizing fuel use.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Inside, the Sealion 07 DM-i feels more premium than its price would suggest. Soft-touch materials and elegant design lines define the cabin. A 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen dominates the dash, paired with a 10.25-inch digital cluster and optional head-up display.

Seating is comfortable for five adults, with ample second-row legroom and a flat floor. The trunk holds about 450–500 liters behind the second row and expands with fold-flat seats for longer cargo.

Top trims offer features such as:

• Heated and ventilated seats
• Panoramic sunroof
• 12-speaker premium Hi-Fi audio system
• Customizable LED ambient lighting
• Advanced voice assistant and OTA updates

Thanks to its hybrid-specific layout, there is no driveshaft tunnel, maximizing interior space. Noise insulation is excellent, especially in EV mode.

Infotainment and Connectivity

BYD’s DiLink 5.0 system underpins the infotainment suite, which is both responsive and customizable. It supports:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wireless)
• Voice commands via the Xiaodi assistant
• Navigation with real-time traffic
• OTA (over-the-air) updates
• Third-party app support

The rotating center screen can switch between landscape and portrait modes, which is especially useful for navigation, entertainment, or TikTok-style vertical videos. BYD has also minimized physical buttons, but key HVAC and drive settings are accessible through soft-touch controls.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The Sealion 07 DM-i comes with an impressive suite of safety and driver-assist features as standard, including:

• Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
• Forward collision warning
• Lane keep assist and lane departure warning
• Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go
• 360-degree panoramic camera
• Rear cross-traffic alert

Higher trims offer Level 2+ semi-autonomous driving, which can manage highway speeds, lane changes, and traffic jams. BYD is also working toward regional certifications for advanced ADAS in export markets.

While official crash-test data is still pending, BYD’s recent models have performed well in both Chinese and European assessments thanks to robust body structures and active safety systems.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

BYD offers competitive coverage in China, which is expected to be mirrored internationally:

• Vehicle warranty: 6 years or 150,000 km
• Powertrain and hybrid components: 8 years or 150,000 km
• Battery pack warranty: 8 years or 200,000 km

As with most PHEVs, minimal maintenance is required beyond standard fluid changes, tire rotation, and brake checks. Regenerative braking significantly extends pad life, and the thermal management system ensures long-term battery health.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 BYD Sealion 07 DM-i represents a new benchmark for plug-in hybrid SUVs in its segment. With a stunning design, practical EV range, and ultra-efficient hybrid drivetrain, it checks nearly every box for families or eco-minded buyers. Whether you’re seeking value, performance, or cutting-edge tech, the Sealion 07 DM-i delivers in all categories—often at a price significantly below the competition.

As global expansion continues, this model has the potential to seriously disrupt legacy automakers, especially in regions with developing EV infrastructure. BYD may have just created the definitive plug-in hybrid SUV of this decade.

Specifications