BYD Cars Philippines just unveiled the refreshed Seal 5 DM-i this week, but a recent listing from the Department of Energy tells us that another popular nameplate may be due for an update. The agency’s database of recognized electric vehicles has added two unfamiliar variants of the Sealion 6 DM-i—arguably BYD’s trailblazing model.
These are the Sealion 6 DM-i Dynamic and the Sealion 6 DM-i Premium. If you’re familiar with BYD’s lineup, you’ll know that ‘Dynamic’ is typically reserved for base-level configurations, while ‘Premium’ indicates additional comfort and safety features.
This suggests that the crossover may soon be offered in two trims, and therefore two different price points. Since its launch in 2024, the Sealion 6 has been sold in a single variant, with its most recent sticker price at P1.598 million.
OTHER STORIES YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED:
Cebu City Council aims to have two EV chargers in every fuel station
Confirmed: The all-new Lexus ES is coming this August
From the specifications attached, the new Sealion 6 will retain its plug-in hybrid powertrain, built around a single electric motor and an 18.3kWh battery. This will still be paired with a 1.5-liter gasoline generator that extends combined driving range to 1,200km—100km more than what the current model (pictured below) can do.
In terms of power, the updated Sealion 6 makes the same 214hp, but less torque at 300Nm. The fit and frame are also similar across variants. As with other BYD models, the main difference between Dynamic and Premium is the availability of the DiPilot suite of advanced driving assists. This should make the Sealion 6 DM-i Dynamic considerably more affordable, as it also loses the power tailgate, the ambient lighting system, and the wireless charging pad.
While there is still no official word from BYD, it may be about time for a reenergized Sealion 6. It has been a hallmark model for the brand, and it could use a fresh coat of paint to stand alongside the fresher BYD models.
