By EVCar 
Fifth-Gen DM-i Hybrid Mastery
Powered by BYD’s fifth-generation DM-i plug-in hybrid system, the Seal 07 pairs a 1.5L high-efficiency Atkinson-cycle engine with a 160kW electric motor and an 18.3kWh Blade Battery. This setup delivers a 120km NEDC pure-electric range and a 1,300km+ total range, outperforming rivals like the Toyota RAV4 Prime (68km EV range). The Blade Battery’s cell-to-pack tech ensures thermal stability, while 75kW DC fast charging replenishes 30-80% in 25 minutes. A standout feature is its 6.6kW V2L (vehicle-to-load) capability, enabling outdoor appliances or emergency power—perfect for camping or blackouts.
The Hybrid Goldilocks Zone
In EV mode, acceleration is instant and silent (0-100km/h in 7.8s), ideal for city commutes. Hybrid mode maintains brisk performance with a fuel-sipping 4.2L/100km NEDC consumption (real-world tests average 4.5-4.8L). The EHS (Electric Hybrid System) transitions seamlessly between power sources, though hard acceleration reveals slight engine noise intrusion. The suspension—MacPherson front and multi-link rear paired with standard DiSus-C adaptive damping—absorbs bumps adeptly but lacks the sporty edge of the Tesla Model Y.
Eco-Conscious Tech Haven
The cabin impresses with recycled marine-themed materials, including ocean-blue vegan leather seats and dash accents mimicking flowing water. A 15.6-inch rotatable touchscreen anchors the minimalist dashboard, running BYD’s DiLink 5.0 system with 5G connectivity, quad-zone voice control, and over-the-air updates. Practical touches include a 50W wireless charger, cooled/heated cup holders, and rear USB-C ports. The AR-HUD projects navigation and speed data onto the windshield, reducing driver distraction. However, hard plastics on lower door panels remind buyers of its mainstream positioning.
Disrupting the Hybrid Hierarchy
Priced from ¥189,800 ($26,200), the Seal 07 DM-i undercuts rivals like the Deepal S7 DM-i (¥197,900) and Volkswagen Tiguan PHEV (¥265,000). Its Blade Battery safety credentials and mature DM-i tech trump the Geely Galaxy L7’s newer but less-proven hybrid system. Against gas-powered SUVs like the Honda CR-V Hybrid (¥228,800), it offers 40% lower fuel costs, tax exemptions, and superior tech—making it a no-brainer for cost-conscious buyers.
Praise Outweighs Quirks
Early adopters rave about “Tesla-level tech at half the price” and “unmatched hybrid efficiency.” Real-world EV range averages 110-115km in moderate climates, dropping to 95km in winter. The DiLink system’s app ecosystem draws praise, though some note occasional voice-command hiccups with regional dialects. Ride quality earns nods for comfort, though enthusiastic drivers crave sharper steering feedback.
Verdict
The BYD Seal 07 DM-i isn’t just another hybrid—it’s a masterclass in balancing cutting-edge tech, everyday practicality, and planet-friendly motoring. While its steering lacks sportiness and cabin materials aren’t luxury-grade, its class-smashing efficiency, Tesla-rivaling tech suite, and family-friendly packaging make it a hybrid SUV benchmark. For buyers seeking an affordable gateway into electrification without range anxiety, this is the new gold standard.
Keywords：BYD Seal 07 DM-i review, DM-i hybrid SUV, Blade Battery technology, 1300km range PHEV, best budget hybrid SUV 2024
No dealer quotes available at the moment