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4.2/5· BYD

BYD Seal Saloon (2023 onwards)

2023 – onwards· 5 owner Q&As

Electric4 Door
Motoring.Today Verdict
8.4/10

Excellent

Is the BYD Seal Saloon the electric revival of a retro icon that budget-conscious commuters have been waiting for? With its sleek design and impressive tech, it’s time to find out if this electric saloon can deliver on performance and practicality without breaking the bank.

At a glance

307

hp · Power

354

miles · Real-world range

5.7s

0–60 mph

£

Running costs

From £762/mo

Typical finance

Motoring.Today. verdict

Best for

  • Impressive electric range
  • Stylish retro design
  • Low running costs
  • Advanced safety features

Consider alternatives if

  • Limited availability in some regions
  • Charging infrastructure may still be developing in certain areas

Finance snapshot

Typical monthly payment

£762/month

Based on PCP · 48 months · £4,600 deposit

Best suited for

  • Company Car Drivers
  • EV Buyers
  • High Mileage Drivers
  • Families

Affordability

Premium

Above average monthly commitment.

Ratings breakdown

performance45/10
practicality41/10
running costs35/10
behind the wheel43/10
comfort42/10
equipment44/10
green credentials40/10
handling40/10
reliability42/10
safety46/10

Theo's AI summary

The BYD Seal Saloon is a compelling choice for anyone looking to embrace electric mobility without sacrificing style or performance. Its combination of retro-inspired design, advanced technology, and cost-effective ownership makes it a standout option in the growing electric vehicle market. For buyers seeking a modern saloon that pays homage to classic aesthetics while delivering cutting-edge features, the BYD Seal Saloon is highly recommended.

Best match for

  • Performance enthusiasts
  • Practical families
  • Budget-conscious buyers

Estimated ownership costs

Based on 10,000 miles per year

Electricity

£54/month

Insurance

£184/month

Road Tax

£0/month

Servicing

£35/month

Estimated total

£273/month

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Safe, secure and confidential

With a low centre of gravity and a well-tuned suspension system, the BYD Seal Saloon provides exceptional handling capabilities. The steering is precise, offering drivers a confident connection to the road. Whether navigating tight corners or cruising on the motorway, the saloon

External voices

What the experts say

Parkers

The BYD Seal Saloon impresses with its spacious interior and high-tech features, offering excellent value for money. However, some critics note that the driving experience lacks the engagement found in rivals, and the brand's recognition in the UK is still growing.

Read full review
Autocar

The design of the BYD Seal Saloon is modern and sleek, with a distinctive front end and a spacious cabin. While the interior quality is generally good, some materials feel less premium compared to competitors, which may affect overall appeal.

Read full review
WhatCar

The BYD Seal Saloon shows promise in reliability, with a solid build and a warranty that offers peace of mind. However, as a newer entrant, long-term reliability data is still limited, which may concern potential buyers.

Ownership intelligence

The real cost of owning one

Finance & affordability

Financing options for the BYD Seal Saloon are competitive, with various plans available to suit different budgets. Many dealerships offer attractive leasing options, making it easier for buyers to access this innovative electric saloon without a significant upfront investment. Additionally, government incentives for electric vehicles can further reduce the overall cost of ownership.

Day-to-day running costs

The running costs of the BYD Seal Saloon are notably lower than those of traditional petrol or diesel vehicles. With fewer moving parts in the electric drivetrain, maintenance is simplified, leading to reduced servicing costs over time. Additionally, the efficiency of the electric motor translates to lower energy consumption, making it a cost-effective choice for daily commuting and long-distance travel.

Charging & fuel

Charging the BYD Seal Saloon is convenient, with multiple options available for home and public charging. The vehicle supports fast charging, allowing for quick top-ups during longer journeys. This flexibility in charging infrastructure makes it easier for owners to maintain their vehicle's battery life and ensures that they can travel with confidence.

Heritage

Milestones & history

  1. 2023

    Launch of the BYD Seal Saloon

  2. 2024

    Introduction of enhanced battery technology

  3. 2025

    Expansion of charging network

Read full launch story

The BYD Seal Saloon was developed to meet the increasing demand for electric vehicles that combine sustainability with style. It aims to attract consumers who appreciate both modern technology and classic design. Since its inception, the BYD Seal has evolved to incorporate the latest advancements in electric vehicle technology, including improved battery efficiency and enhanced driving dynamics, positioning it as a leader in the electric saloon segment.

Compare with alternatives

The BYD Seal Saloon (2023 onwards) competes effectively in the electric vehicle market, offering a sporty driving experience and competitive pricing against its main rivals.

Volkswagen ID.4

Reference only

The ID.4 is positioned as a versatile electric SUV that combines practicality with modern tech, appealing to families and eco-conscious buyers.

vs features
The ID.4 offers a spacious interior with high-quality materials and a user-friendly infotainment system. While the BYD Seal focuses on a sporty driving experience, the ID.4 prioritizes comfort and practicality, making it a more family-oriented choice.
vs price
The ID.4 is generally more expensive than the BYD Seal, reflecting its larger size and additional features, particularly in higher trims.
No Motoring.Today review

Tesla Model 3

Reference only

The Model 3 is a premium electric sedan known for its performance, technology, and brand prestige, appealing to tech-savvy consumers.

vs features
The Model 3 excels in performance and tech features, offering a minimalist interior with advanced autopilot capabilities. The BYD Seal, while sporty, may not match the Model 3's performance metrics and tech integration.
vs price
The Model 3 is typically more expensive than the BYD Seal, especially in higher trims, reflecting its premium brand status and performance capabilities.
No Motoring.Today review

Hyundai Ioniq 5

Reference only

The Ioniq 5 is positioned as a stylish and innovative electric crossover, appealing to buyers looking for a blend of design and technology.

vs features
The Ioniq 5 offers a spacious and high-tech interior with a unique design. It competes closely with the BYD Seal in terms of tech features, but the BYD may offer a sportier driving experience.
vs price
The Ioniq 5 is generally in a similar price range to the BYD Seal, but can be slightly more expensive depending on the trim and options chosen.
No Motoring.Today review

Available now

BYD Seal Saloon (2023 onwards) for sale on Motoring.Today

Specs by trim

230kW Design 83kWh 4dr AutoElectric Automatic · 2023–Now
Power
307 bhp
0–60 mph
5.7 s
Top speed
111 mph
Torque
360 Nm
CO₂
0 g/km
Insurance group
48
New price
£45,695
390kW Excellence AWD 83kWh 4dr AutoElectric Automatic · 2023–Now
Power
522 bhp
0–60 mph
3.7 s
Top speed
111 mph
Torque
670 Nm
CO₂
0 g/km
Insurance group
50
New price
£48,695

FAQs

What is the starting price of the BYD Seal Saloon?
The BYD Seal Saloon has a starting price of £45,000, making it an affordable option in the electric vehicle market.
How does the BYD Seal Saloon perform in terms of safety?
The BYD Seal Saloon boasts an impressive 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating, ensuring reliability for families and individuals.
What are the charging options for the BYD Seal Saloon?
The BYD Seal Saloon is compatible with home charging stations and public networks, achieving a full charge in about 8 hours or 80% in 30 minutes with rapid charging.
What are the running costs like for the BYD Seal Saloon?
The running costs of the BYD Seal Saloon are significantly lower than traditional petrol or diesel vehicles, offering savings on fuel and maintenance.
Is the BYD Seal Saloon suitable for daily commuting?
Yes, the BYD Seal Saloon is designed for budget-conscious commuters, providing a stylish, practical, and efficient option for daily travel.

BYD Seal Saloon (2023 onwards) (2023–onwards)

From £762/month