BYD Sealion 5 Launches as Australia’s Cheapest PHEV: Official Pricing and Specifications

BYD Australia has officially confirmed local pricing for the Sealion 5 plug-in hybrid SUV, positioning it as the most affordable vehicle of its type in the country.

The new model starts at a list price of $33,990 excluding on-road costs for the entry-level Essential variant.

Orders for the Sealion 5 are available immediately, with the first deliveries expected to commence shortly.

This pricing structure aggressively undercuts key competitors in the rapidly growing plug-in hybrid segment.

It enters the market significantly cheaper than the Geely Starray EM-i, which recently launched with a starting price of $37,490 excluding on-road costs.

The price point is also lower than the Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid, which is listed at $39,990 drive-away.

Other rivals include the BYD Sealion 6 ($42,990), Jaecoo J7 PHEV ($45,990), and the GWM Haval H6 PHEV ($46,490).

The MG HS Super Hybrid remains one of the more expensive options in this class, starting from $48,990.

In terms of physical footprint, the Sealion 5 occupies a unique space relative to its direct competition.

Measuring 4,738mm in length, the Sealion 5 is significantly longer than the Chery Tiggo 7 Super Hybrid, which measures 4,535mm.

Its length is more comparable to the larger, seven-seat Chery Tiggo 8 Super Hybrid, which comes in at 4,724mm.

When compared to the Geely Starray EM-i, the Sealion 5 is just 2mm shorter in length but is 45mm narrower.

The wheelbase measures 2,712mm, which is 43mm shorter than the Starray EM-i, potentially impacting interior packaging relative to the Geely.

Under the bonnet, the Sealion 5 features BYD’s DM-i 4.0 Super Hybrid technology.

This system pairs a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 72kW and 122Nm with a front-mounted electric motor delivering 145kW and 300Nm.

The combined system output is rated at 156kW, driving the front wheels exclusively.

Acceleration from 0-100km/h is claimed at 8.1 seconds for the Essential variant and 7.7 seconds for the Premium variant.

Two battery options are available, both utilising BYD's proprietary Blade Battery technology.

The base 'Essential' variant features a 12.9kWh battery, offering a claimed electric range of 71km.

The range-topping 'Premium' variant, priced at $37,990 plus on-road costs, upgrades to an 18.3kWh battery for a claimed electric range of 100km.

It is important to note that these range figures are based on the NEDC testing standard, which is generally more optimistic than the WLTP standard used by many competitors.

Fuel consumption is rated at 1.2L/100km (NEDC) when charged, rising to approximately 4.5L/100km (Essential) and 4.6L/100km (Premium) in charge-sustaining mode.

Inside, the cabin technology varies depending on the chosen grade.

The Essential model includes a 10.1-inch rotating touchscreen and synthetic leather seats with manual adjustment.

The Premium grade upgrades to a 12.8-inch screen and adds luxury features such as a panoramic sunroof, power-operated tailgate, and ventilated front seats.

Standard equipment across the range includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capabilities, and a portable Mode 2 charging cable.

Safety is also standardised, with 7 airbags, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera included on both models.

BYD Australia Chief Operating Officer Stephen Collins stated that the vehicle is designed to offer real choice to families seeking electric mobility.

“The SEALION 5 raises the bar in terms of new energy vehicle accessibility, without compromising on the features that make BYD great," he said.

The Sealion 5 joins the recently introduced Atto 1 and Atto 2 in the company's expanding fleet of affordable new energy vehicles.

2026 BYD Sealion 5 Pricing

• 2026 BYD Sealion 5 Essential: $33,990 (excluding on-road costs)
• 2026 BYD Sealion 5 Premium: $37,990 (excluding on-road costs)

2026 BYD Sealion 5 Specifications

BYD Sealion 5 Essential

• Dimensions: 4,738mm (L) x 1,860mm (W) x 1,710mm (H)
• Wheelbase: 2,712mm
• Powertrain: 1.5L Petrol Engine (72kW/122Nm) + Front Electric Motor (145kW/300Nm)
• Combined Output: 156kW Power
• Battery: 12.9kWh BYD Blade Battery
• Electric Range: 71km (NEDC)
• Combined Range: 1,001km (NEDC)
• Acceleration (0-100km/h): 8.1 seconds
• Fuel Consumption: 1.2L/100km (SOC 25-100%), 4.5L/100km (SOC <25%)
• Charging: Type 2 AC Charging Port, V2L Function included
• Wheels: 18-inch Alloy Wheels (225/60 R18 Hankook tyres)
• Infotainment: 10.1-inch Intelligent Touch Screen
• Seating: Synthetic leather, 6-way manual driver adjustment, 4-way manual passenger adjustment
• Key Features:
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
  • 360-degree View Monitor & Rear View Camera
  • Keyless Entry & Start (Key fob & NFC card)
  • Dual-zone Automatic Air Conditioning
  • LED Headlights & Taillights
  • Full ADAS Suite (ACC, AEB, Lane Keeping, Blind Spot Detection)

BYD Sealion 5 Premium

• Battery: 18.3kWh BYD Blade Battery
• Electric Range: 100km (NEDC)
• Combined Range: 1,040km (NEDC)
• Acceleration (0-100km/h): 7.7 seconds
• Fuel Consumption: 1.2L/100km (SOC 25-100%), 4.6L/100km (SOC <25%)
• Infotainment: 12.8-inch Intelligent Touch Screen
• Seating:
  • 6-way Power Adjustment for Driver
  • 4-way Power Adjustment for Front Passenger
  • Driver Heated & Ventilated Seat
• Additional Premium Features:
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • One-touch Open/Close Power Tailgate
  • Auto-dimming Interior Mirror
  • Privacy Glass (Rear windscreen with electric heating)
  • LED Front & Rear Reading Lights