The BYD Seal 7 DM-i is not just a plug-in hybrid sedan, it is a statement of how far Chinese automakers have come in blending elegant design, cutting-edge efficiency, and luxurious comfort. Designed on BYD’s fourth-generation DM hybrid platform, this fastback-styled sedan delivers a powerful front-wheel drive experience, a combined range of up to 850 kilometers, and a technology-rich cabin. In this test drive, we dive into five key areas that define the Seal 7 experience.
From the moment you spot the BYD Seal 7, the Ocean-X inspired design commands attention. Its sleek coupe profile is accentuated by the low-sloping roofline, sculpted waistlines, and a wide rear stance. The front end hosts a borderless grille with angular LED headlamps and sharp daytime running lights that give the car a futuristic expression. Around back, the through-type taillight design enhances width perception and night-time visibility.
Rolling on 19-inch alloy wheels, the Seal 7 also includes subtle aerodynamic cues and frameless doors, giving it a premium silhouette that feels more grand tourer than daily commuter. With an overall length of 4,980 mm and a 2,900 mm wheelbase, it looks and feels commanding yet sleek on the road.
Under the hood, the Seal 7 DM-i hides a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine paired with a 160 kW electric motor, delivering a combined output of 270 horsepower. This front-wheel drive setup accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.9 seconds, making it nimble enough for overtaking and highway merges. But the real story here is efficiency. With a 17.6 kWh battery and a 60-liter fuel tank, the Seal 7 offers a combined WLTP range of up to 850 km while consuming just 6.2 liters per 100 km.
This car is also equipped with regenerative braking, multiple drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sport, and Snow), and a multi-link rear suspension that ensures both responsiveness and comfort. The ride remains composed through corners, and it absorbs rough patches smoothly, providing a plush driving experience that rivals more expensive European sedans.
The cabin of the Seal 7 is a masterclass in serene luxury. Inspired by ocean waves, the interior is trimmed in soft materials and two-tone options like beige or black with brushed metal accents. Front passengers are greeted by ventilated and heated seats, with electric adjustment available on both driver and co-driver sides. Rear passengers enjoy generous legroom thanks to the stretched wheelbase, with optional seat ventilation and heating as well.
Above, the panoramic sunroof floods the interior with natural light. The rotating 15.6-inch multimedia touchscreen offers access to BYD’s DiLink OS, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the 12-speaker Dynaudio sound system delivers crisp, immersive audio that elevates every journey.
Technology is at the heart of the Seal 7 experience. The 8.8-inch digital instrument panel delivers crisp real-time driving info, while a head-up display is available on higher trims. Keyless entry and start come standard, alongside a mobile app with Bluetooth and NFC key access.
Smart driving aids include Level 2 autonomy with Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Centering, Forward Collision Warning, and 360-degree camera views. Additional convenience tech includes wireless charging, voice control, and remote climate pre-conditioning. The Seal 7 feels less like a car and more like a connected device on wheels.
Safety is where the Seal 7 quietly excels. The plug-in hybrid is built on a dedicated safety body structure designed to handle high-voltage components and battery placement. It comes equipped with 12 airbags as standard, including curtain, knee, and side airbags for all rows.
BYD adds to the package with Electronic Stability Control, Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Driver Attention Monitoring. These features combine with superior structural engineering to provide peace of mind, whether you're commuting solo or traveling with family.
Started my career in Automotive Journalism in 2015. Even though I'm a pharmacist, hanging around cars all the time has created a passion for the automotive industry since day 1.