BYD Sealion 8, 7-seat SUV Confirmed for Australia: Price and Specs

BYD is expanding its Australian range with the upcoming SEALION 8, a large plug-in hybrid SUV designed for local roads and families. This model will be the brand’s new flagship. Orders open in December, and BYD says early interest has been strong.

The SEALION 8 is BYD’s first three-row SUV in Australia. It joins the Dolphin, Atto 3 and Seal in the local lineup. The company developed it with a focus on comfort, performance, and space. It will compete with models like the Toyota Kluger Hybrid and Kia Sorento Hybrid.

Pricing, Variants, and Range

The SEALION 8 uses BYD’s fifth-generation Dual Mode (DM) hybrid system. This combines a turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine with one or two electric motors. The system can switch between two- and four-wheel drive.

Three grades will be available when the Sealion 8 launches in early 2026.

• Dynamic FWD
• Dynamic AWD
• Premium AWD

Pricing is not yet confirmed, but the range is expected to start at around $60,000. This is similar to the base Toyota Kluger and Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid. The SEALION 8 is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) with a longer electric-only range.

The base Dynamic FWD model has a 19kWh battery, while the AWD models get a larger 35.6kWh battery. This gives a claimed driving range of 103km and 152km. These figures are based on the NEDC standard, so real-world range will likely be closer to 80km and 120km.

▶️MORE: Every Plug-in Hybrid EV (PHEV) Available in Australia

Performance and Driving Feel

All-wheel-drive models have larger batteries and a second electric motor at the rear. This improves performance. The 0–100km/h time drops from 8.6 seconds in the FWD model to 4.9 seconds in the AWD versions.

The Sealion 8 is quick in a straight line, but its driving dynamics are a weakness. The car is heavy, which can be felt in corners. For a large family SUV, driving dynamics however are not a main priority. Space and comfort are more important.

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Space, Comfort and Practicality

The Sealion 8 is bigger than a Toyota Kluger in every dimension. This gives it plenty of interior space. The second-row seats slide forward to create more room for passengers in the back.

For families, there are top tether points in all second and third-row seats. This means baby seats can be fitted in any position. Getting into the third row is difficult. The rear door opening feels narrow. The second-row seat bases are also thick, which reduces the space to move your legs through. For frequent third-row use, a people mover like the Kia Carnival is still better.

The Sealion 8 has a generous boot. With all seven seats up, there is 270 litres of space. This expands to 960 litres with the third row folded and 1960 litres with the second row down.

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Impact on the Australian Market

The BYD Sealion 8 is a significant new entry in Australia's large SUV market. As a PHEV with a long electric range, it offers a real alternative to popular hybrids. If BYD prices it competitively, it could attract many families who want to use less fuel but aren't ready for a fully electric car. This model is key to BYD's plan to become a top-three brand in Australia.

zecar's take

The Sealion 8 is an exciting new entrant into the EV market. With 7-seats and an electric drivetrain, it will be one of the few true 7-seat options available for those wanting an EV experience with the space and practicality of a 7-seater.

The PHEV powertrain offers a useful electric range, but the driving experience is not exciting. The car's main strengths are its size and its ability to seat seven people comfortably. For families who have considered the Toyota Kluger or Hyundai Santa Fe, this new BYD is worth a look.