The BYD Sealion 5 DM-i has just received a significant refresh in Thailand. There, a new ‘Standard’ variant has just been added to the lineup, positioned as a base-level configuration.
While it may sound similar to the single Sealion 5 DM-i trim available in the Philippines, there are several key differences. Arguably, the most important one is that it is assembled in Thailand, not China. BYD has localized its manufacturing of right-hand drive vehicles to the region, which is likely why Thailand also gets more variants and options.
But back to the Sealion 5 DM-i Standard. It also dons a new look that has swapped the old industrial grille for a more executive-looking front fascia. The plug-in hybrid crossover now looks more akin to the fully electric version of the Tang SUV.
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Under the metal, BYD’s Super DM-i system is still running the show, but the Thai-built crossover gets a slightly bigger battery with 13.1kWh. That gives it 80km of fully electric driving—a marginal improvement from the 71km range and the 12.96kWh pack of the local Sealion 5.
Single-motor systems are shared between the two crossovers, but the Thai version also gets more power at 210hp compared to the 194hp we get here. Surprisingly, the differences do not stop there.
Thailand’s model also gets a more comprehensive package of advanced safety features and an updated cabin. And remember, these are all on the base variant. There are still two Sealion 5 variants offered in Thailand. Both come with even larger batteries, varying safety suites, and even more creature comforts.
The Sealion 5 is coming up on its first full year of sales in the country. With a new Seal 5 DM-i set to roll out soon, should BYD Cars Philippines update the Sealion 5 next?
