BYD Sealion 06: A Leap Forward in BYD's SUV Lineup with 800V Platform

BYD's Sealion 06 comes as a successor to the widely popular Sealion 6, also known as the BYD Song Plus in the Chinese market. With over 1.57 million units sold globally, the Sealion 6 set a high benchmark, yet the Sealion 06 aims to propel BYD's mid-range SUV strategy into a new era. Priced at approximately 150,000 yuan (around 22,100 USD), the Sealion 06 offers an enticing package of size, design, and technology, making it an attractive option for families seeking a modern SUV. Our test drive revealed significant upgrades in design aesthetics, driving dynamics, and smart features, clearly delineating BYD’s intent to integrate its top-tier technologies across both electric and plug-in hybrid variants.

The Sealion 06's exterior design stands out with its distinctive 'double-eyelid' headlamp arrangement, which has sparked debate among car enthusiasts due to its resemblance to the Genesis GV60. While some see it as an innovative move, others find it unconventional. The split daytime running lights (DRLs) create a striking presence, especially under daylight. The closed front grille signifies its electric vehicle (EV) architecture, complemented by sculpted corner inlets and a domed hood, which cleverly conceals a 142-litre front trunk—a feature that adds practical utility. The vehicle’s dimensions are slightly larger than its competitors, measuring 4,810 mm in length and boasting a wheelbase of 2,820 mm, offering more space than a Tesla Model Y or Volkswagen Tiguan L. The Sealion 06's exterior exudes a premium feel that surpasses expectations for its price range.

Inside, the Sealion 06 presents a significant leap in quality and design compared to its predecessor. The cabin is enveloped in soft-touch materials, leather panels, and woven fabrics, creating a refined ambiance well beyond its price point. The redesigned front seats offer enhanced side bolstering and shoulder support, which was particularly appreciated during long highway drives. Rear passengers enjoy ample cushioning and support, even accommodating larger occupants comfortably. The flat floor design maximizes space efficiency, allowing three adults to sit comfortably in the back. Furthermore, the rear trunk offers over 700 litres of storage space, supplemented by a hidden compartment beneath for smaller items, making it ideal for family trips.

Driving the Sealion 06 was a demonstration of BYD's commitment to superior performance. Equipped with a 26.6 kWh battery, 180 kW rear motor, and a 74 kW engine, it delivers a combined range of 1,670 km under the CLTC cycle. The power delivery is smooth yet robust, making highway merges and city driving seamless. A standout feature is the DiSus-C variable-damping suspension system, which offers 'Sport' and 'Comfort' settings to suit different driving styles. This system effectively absorbs road imperfections, providing a composed ride across varied surfaces. The steering is direct and balanced, enhancing the driving experience further, while the cabin remains impressively insulated from road and wind noise, even at higher speeds.

The Sealion 06's technological prowess is among its strongest attributes. The centerpiece is a 15.6-inch floating central display, complemented by a 1.5-inch instrument cluster and an optional 20-inch head-up display. The BYD intelligent assistant allows for seamless voice interaction, executing commands without repeated prompts. The user interface is intuitive, with smartphone-like gestures making it accessible even to those new to digital dashboards. Features such as NFC key access, over-the-air updates, and remote vehicle control enhance user convenience. Notably, the top trim includes a built-in refrigerator, a rarity in this price segment, utilizing the central A/C compressor to minimize noise.

BYD's 'God’s Eye C' (DiPilot 100) intelligent driving suite is standard across all Sealion 06 models. This system supports advanced features like highway navigation-assisted driving, automatic lane changes, and emergency braking with horn activation. During tests, the system adeptly handled complex maneuvers, such as parking in tight spaces with minimal driver intervention. The real-time display of surrounding vehicles boosts driver confidence, especially when the system initiates proactive safety measures like emergency stops. This reflects BYD's commitment to integrating intelligent safety features, creating a comprehensive driving experience that balances sophistication with everyday practicality.