Key Points
- The BYD Sealion 8 is the brand's largest SUV, due in Australia by early 2026.
- Local testing has confirmed right-hand-drive prototypes on Sydney roads.
- Buyers will choose between DM-i (FWD) and DM-p (AWD) plug-in hybrid systems.
- The range-topping DM-p offers 341kW, 675Nm, and 0–100km/h in 4.9s.
- Australian models will come with seven seats and luxury features like massaging second-row seating.
BYD's largest SUV to date, the Sealion 8, known as the Tang L in China, has been caught testing on Australian roads ahead of its scheduled launch in early 2026. The new model will sit at the top of BYD's SUV line-up and compete directly with popular large hybrids and plug-in hybrids already on sale.
▶️MORE: BYD New Car Reviews, News, Models & Prices | zecar
First Sightings on Local Roads
The Sealion 8 prototype was recently seen twice in Sydney: once parked and once in motion, clad in camouflage and fitted with a tow bar. Early indications suggest a braked towing capacity of up to 2000kg, a figure that would place it alongside rivals in the large family SUV class.
Registration details confirm the vehicle has been on Australian roads since mid-August 2025, highlighting BYD's push to ready the Sealion 8 for local launch.
The SUV will crown the Sealion range above the Sealion 6 plug-in hybrid and the all-electric Sealion 7, creating a three-vehicle line-up spanning mid-size to large SUV buyers.
▶️MORE: BYD's 5-Minute 400km EV Charging Breakthrough
BYD Sealion 8 Key Specifications
Specification | DM-i (Intelligence) | DM-p (Performance) |
Expected Price | TBC | TBC |
Drive System | Front-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
Petrol Engine | 1.5L turbo (110kW/220Nm) | 1.5L turbo (110kW/220Nm) |
Front Motor | 200 kW / 315 Nm | 200 kW / 315 Nm |
Rear Motor | None | 141 kW / 360 Nm |
Total System Output | TBC | 341 kW / 675 Nm |
Battery Capacity | 19 kWh | 35.6 kWh |
0-100 km/h | 8.6 seconds | 4.9 seconds |
Electric Range (China) | TBC | Up to 200 km |
Total Range (China) | TBC | Up to 1,200 km |
Length | 5,040 mm | 5,040 mm |
Width | 1,996 mm | 1,996 mm |
Height | 1,970 mm | 1,970 mm |
Wheelbase | 2,950 mm | 2,950 mm |
Seating | 7 seats (2-3-2) | 7 seats (2-3-2) |
Towing Capacity | Up to 2,000 kg | Up to 2,000 kg |
Powertrain and Performance Options
Australian buyers will have a choice between two plug-in hybrid systems:
- DM-i (Intelligence): Front-wheel drive, smaller 19kWh battery, no rear motor.
- DM-p (Performance): All-wheel drive, larger 35.6kWh battery, and dual-motor setup.
The flagship DM-p combines a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with front and rear electric motors for a total output of 341kW and 675Nm. BYD claims 0–100km/h in 4.9 seconds, while the entry-level DM-i completes the sprint in 8.6 seconds.
▶️MORE: Every Plug-in Hybrid EV (PHEV) Available in Australia
Range, Size, and Features
In China, the Sealion 8 DM-p is quoted at up to 200km of electric-only driving (under local test standards), with a total hybrid range of 1200km. Official WLTP figures for Australia are yet to be confirmed.
The SUV is based on the BYD Tang L and measures 5040mm long, 1996mm wide, and 1970mm tall on a 2950mm wheelbase. These dimensions are comparable to the Toyota Kluger, Mazda CX-80, and Hyundai Palisade.
Seven seats arranged in a 2-3-2 layout will be standard, and BYD has confirmed that Australian-delivered models will feature heated, cooled, and massaging seats in the first and second rows of all-wheel-drive variants, along with LED exterior lighting.
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