2026 BYD Sealion 8 PHEV Seven-Seater Confirmed

The 2026 BYD Sealion 8 has been announced for Australia, with the seven-seater plug-in hybrid SUV set to arrive early next year – as first revealed by CarSauce in January 2025.

BYD will initially launch the Sealion 8 with two variants – known as the DM-i and DM-p – with the base model being front-wheel drive with a single electric motor, while the range-topping variant will use dual electric motors for all-wheel drive.

Both grades will also have a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine under the bonnet making 110kW and 220Nm.

BYD says the Sealion 8 DM-i will produce 200kW and 315Nm from its electric motor, while the Sealion 8 DM-p adds 141kW and 360Nm from the electric motor on the rear axle.

According to the company, each variant of the Sealion 8 can cover the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.6 and 4.9 seconds respectively.

While BYD has yet to announce final pricing and specifications for Australia, in its native market of China, the Sealion 8 – known there as the Tang L – has a claimed electric driving range of 215km for the DM-i, and 175km for the DM-p.

As the brand’s flagship model, the Sealion 8 DM-p will offer both heated and cooled seats for the first two rows of seats, as well as a massage function.

Outside, the plug-in hybrid SUV features LED headlights and daytime-running lights, full-length LED tail-lights, and flush door handles.

Though yet to be confirmed for Australia, overseas models get a digital instrument cluster, a 15.6-inch infotainment screen, and optional head-up display with augmented reality.

In China, buyers can also option an integrated drone system, which – using a single button – can deploy a drone from its roof compartment so the driver can see traffic for kilometres ahead. However, it’s highly unlikely this option is offered in Australia.

A fully-electric version of the BYD Sealion 8 is also available in other markets, and could eventually join the local line-up.

Full pricing and specifications of the 2026 BYD Sealion 8 will be announced closer to its launch, early next year.