BYD Sea Lion 05 DM-i 1.5L 18.3 kWh (163 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid E-CVT


Overall Rating

8.3 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 4.0 / 5
Value 4.5 / 5
Performance 4.0 / 5
Comfort 4.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

BYD Sea Lion 05:

The BYD Sealion 05 EV is a battery electric compact crossover SUV manufactured by BYD Auto since 2025. It is part of the "Sealion" line-up of SUVs under the Ocean Series product line-up that are distributed through Ocean Network dealerships in China.
The Sealion 05 EV was launched in China on 25 March 2025, with three trim levels.
The exterior of the Sealion 05 EV features the brand's Ocean Aesthetics design language. It features a minimalistic front fascia design with a small air intake, flushed door handles, black plastic trim on the wheel arches, and a continuous LED taillight bar....(Read more on Wikipedia)

Sea Lion 05 Overview:

BYD Sea Lion 05 (Sea Lion 05). With 126 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 8.5 s). A sport utility vehicle offering higher ground clearance and versatile cargo space. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

DM-i 1.5L 18.3 kWh (163 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid E-CVT Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Provides solid, smooth performance with 163 Hp system power, achieving 0-100 km/h in 8.5 seconds, slightly less brisk but still very capable for an SUV.

Fuel Economy

Maintains excellent 3.79 l/100 km fuel economy, with the larger 18.3 kWh battery likely extending the all-electric range beyond the 12.9 kWh variant, enhancing electric-only driving.

Best Use Case: Commuters prioritizing extended electric range for longer daily journeys without engaging the petrol engine, suitable for mixed city and highway use.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Advanced PHEV and full EV powertrain options offer versatility and efficiency.
  • • Strong acceleration across both hybrid and electric variants.
  • • Excellent fuel economy for PHEV models and zero emissions for EVs.
  • • Modern design and competitive technology for its segment.
  • • BYD's established battery technology provides confidence in range and longevity.

Cons:

  • • As a new model, long-term reliability data is yet to be established.
  • • Brand recognition and service network may still be developing in some international markets.
  • • E-CVT transmission might not appeal to all drivers seeking a more traditional gear-shifting feel.
  • • Specific market availability and pricing details are still emerging.

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Sea Lion 05: March, 2025 year - ).

General:
Brand:BYD
Model:Sea Lion 05
Generation:Sea Lion 05
Modification (Engine):DM-i 1.5L 18.3 kWh (163 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid E-CVT
Start of production:September, 2024
Powertrain Architecture:PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle)
Body type:SUV
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Engine systems:Start & Stop System
Power:101 Hp [0hp less]
Power per litre:67.4 Hp/l [worst than previous generation]
Torque:126 Nm
Engine Model/Code:BYD472QC More details about the engine BYD472QC
Engine displacement:1498
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:DOHC, VVT
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol / electricity
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:3.79 l/100 km
Emission standard:China VI
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:8.5 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:8.5 sec
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:8.1 sec
Space:
Fuel tank capacity:52 l
Size:
Length:4710 mm mm [190mm more]
Width:1880 mm mm [20mm more]
Height:1720 mm mm [90mm more]
Wheelbase:2712 mm mm [8mm less]
Front track:1573 mm
Rear (Back) track:1582 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):11.6 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric motor drive the front wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Transmission typeAutomatic
Gearbox typeE-CVT
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc [above average]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringElectric Steering
Tires size225/60 R18; 235/50 R19
Wheel rims size18; 19
Front suspensionIndependent type McPherson
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link suspension
Electric:
Gross battery capacity:18.3 kWh
Battery technology:Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO
Battery location:Below the floor
System power:163 Hp
System torque:210 Nm
All-electric range:115 km
Electric motor power:163 Hp
Electric motor Torque:210 Nm
Electric motor location:Front axle, Transverse
Electric motor type:Synchronous

Fuel, speed, and comfort: How does the BYD Sea Lion 05 rank in your book?