BYD Sealion 5 Review 2026: A Honest Look at What It Really Offers

The BYD Sealion 5 review 2026 brings a refreshed focus on affordability, hybrid efficiency, and everyday usability. But as we found out during real-world testing at the historic Lang Lang Proving Ground in Australia, this SUV also comes with compromises that are hard to ignore. If you’re curious about performance, design, comfort, and whether this new plug-in hybrid is worth waiting for, this breakdown covers everything from exterior looks to battery range, driving feel, and final verdict.

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Exterior Design & First Impressions

BYD’s Old Design Language Shows Its Age

The design of the BYD Sealion 5 2026 is one of its weakest points. This model has been on sale in China for many years, and it shows. The “Dynasty” design language looks dated, the front fascia feels droopy, and the bonnet is longer than it needs to be. The only highlight is the sharp daytime running lights, which add a modern touch.

Aerodynamics Over Style

While not the most attractive SUV, the body is intentionally sleek to maximize efficiency. Since this is a plug-in hybrid, aerodynamics play a key role in extending electric-only range.

Wheels, Cameras & Practical Touches

• 18-inch wheels
• Level 2 autonomous driving
• 360-degree cameras
• Slight privacy tint
• Roof rails

All practical features, but nothing standout. AC charging is the only option — no DC fast charging — because the battery is small and the focus is cost-cutting.

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Interior Quality & Comfort

Cabin Experience

Inside, the BYD Sealion 5 Australia model feels comfortable for its expected price of around $35,000 AUD. The faux leather steering wheel looks good, and the digital instrument panel is simple but functional. The 12.8-inch infotainment display supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

However, air-conditioning controls being touch-only feels inconvenient given the extra dashboard space available for physical buttons.

Features & Storage

• Heated and ventilated seats
• Dual-zone climate control
• Fast wireless charger
• Plenty of storage areas
• Soft-touch materials in most areas
• Panoramic sunroof

The cabin is quiet, roomy, and functional, though some plastics reveal its budget positioning.

Back Seat Space

Rear passengers get:

• Excellent legroom
• Great toe room
• Comfortable seating angle
• USB-A, USB-C ports
• Rear vents

But the rear door feel is cheap, reinforcing that BYD cut costs to meet the price target.

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Powertrain, Battery & Efficiency

Hybrid Setup

The BYD Sealion 5 hybrid uses BYD’s DMI (Dual-Mode Intelligence) system:

Engine:

• 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol
• 72 kW power / 122 Nm torque

Electric Motor:

• 145 kW / 300 Nm
• FWD only

Total system output: 156 kW and ≈300 Nm combined.

Battery Options

Two trims offer two battery sizes:

• 12.9 kWh battery → ~50 km real-world
• 18.3 kWh battery → ~80 km real-world

Even when the battery is empty, fuel consumption stays around 4.6L/100 km, which is impressive.

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Performance & Driving Feel

Acceleration Test

A 0–100 km/h launch test resulted in 10.58 seconds, showing that this is not a fast SUV. Wheel-spin is common due to FWD layout and budget tyres, making launches inconsistent.

Handling & Ride

During testing, the BYD Sealion 5 review 2026 revealed several weaknesses:

• Excessive body roll
• Noticeable forward and backward pitch under braking and acceleration
• Weak rebound control
• Bumpy ride on Australian-tuned roads

Once at highway speed, things smoothen out, but the underlying chassis feels cheap. Steering is overly heavy in Sport mode but more natural in Normal mode.

Drivetrain Calibration

Surprisingly, the hybrid system calibration is excellent — smoother and more responsive than some rivals. It’s predictable, linear, and doesn’t hesitate when switching between petrol and electric modes.

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Final Verdict: Should You Buy the BYD Sealion 5 in 2026?

The BYD Sealion 5 review 2026 comes down to one main factor: price.

When it’s worth it

If BYD brings this SUV to Australia at $35,000, it becomes:

• Extremely good value
• Spacious
• Efficient
• Feature-packed
• A strong plug-in hybrid option

When it’s not worth it

Anything above that range, and the competition becomes too strong:

• GWM Haval H6 with Australian-tuned suspension
• JAC J7 plug-in hybrid
• BYD’s own Sealion 6 (just slightly larger and more refined)

Design is subjective

Some buyers may like the look, but many will find it uninspiring or outdated.

Overall conclusion

The Sealion 5 is:

• Good for the price
• Practical and large
• Efficient
• But not exciting
• And not very polished

It feels like a budget version of the Sealion 6 — because that’s exactly what it is. Still, for buyers wanting a cheap plug-in hybrid SUV with good range and plenty of features, this can be a smart pick if the pricing is right.