BYD is set to debut its first seven-seater SUV, the Sealion 8, in Australia in the first quarter of 2026.
Like the locally available Sealion 6 DM-i, the newest member of BYD’s Ocean series is a range-extended EV, but the Chinese carmaker will add a new performance variant to the lineup. These new trims are part of BYD’s newest 5.0 platform.
Joining the familiar DM-i configuration is the all-new BYD Sealion 8 DM-p, which stands for Dual Mode-performance. While the standard DM-i uses a 19kWh Blade battery, the DM-p system is powered by a bigger 35.6kWh pack. And on this next-generation platform, these batteries will be working with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 148hp and 220Nm on its own, to then complete the powertrain setup.
OTHER STORIES YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED:
Independence Day: Roxas Blvd., other roads leading to Rizal Park to close on June 12
Top Gear PH Podcast S2 Episode 10: EDSA odd-even, NCAP, DOTr and the chaos of May 2025
On the Sealion 8 DM-i, a 268hp, 315Nm single motor propels the front wheels. BYD Australia says this is good for 0-100kph in 8.6sec—marginally slower than the Sealion 6’s 8.3sec century sprint.
BYD has probably saved the performance upgrades for the DM-p, as the more powerful Sealion 8 boasts dual motors and the aforementioned bigger battery pack. It comes with the same front motor as its DM-i sibling, but adds a rear motor that makes 189hp and 360Nm of torque. That should be good for a 0-100kph sprint in just 4.9sec. Not bad for a seven-seater SUV.
In terms of its shell, it looks like a thicker version of the Sealion 6, with a chunkier and flatter fascia. The roofline also looks considerably higher, along with a longer body, thanks to that third row.
BYD has yet to announce more details on its global release. More as we get it.
