BYD Sealion 7 Performance Might Be Tesla’s Biggest Challenge: Review | Carscoops

      A new electric SUV from China's largest manufacturer offers impressive performance and unexpected luxury at a price point that most competitors can't rival.

      by Brad Anderson

      PROS ›› Affordable, premium interior, exceptionally fast

      CONS ›› Average handling, stiff ride, noticeable wind noise

      BYD has experienced a remarkable rise in recent years. It has transformed from a name few recognized to the foremost producer of plug-in hybrids globally, even surpassing Tesla in sales of fully electric vehicles.

      This outstanding growth has been fueled by a steady release of new models that surface with remarkable frequency. While established brands typically take years to develop and introduce new vehicles, BYD has capitalized on the agility of a startup while leveraging China's robust automotive supply chain. Nearly every week, we find ourselves discussing a new model from BYD or one of its subsidiaries, such as Denza or YangWang.

      Among BYD's most significant releases in Australia is the Sealion 7. The name may evoke thoughts of unapproved Pokemon characters, yet the car is promoted as a genuine competitor to the Tesla Model Y. The question is whether it can actually hold its own or if it’s merely another name on the growing list of Tesla challengers. I spent a week with the vehicle to determine its true capabilities.

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      Price That Challenges Tesla

      In Australia, the Sealion 7 starts at AU$54,990 ($36,200) for the entry-level Premium version and AU$63,990 ($42,100) for the flagship Performance variant. My time was spent in the Performance model, which is luxurious, comfortable, and incredibly fast.

      With a starting price of AU$63,990 ($42,100), the BYD becomes even more appealing. In contrast, the new Model Y Long Range All-Wheel Drive begins at AU$68,900 ($45,400), while the Model Y Performance is in a different league, starting at AU$89,400 ($58,900).

      Although the Sealion 7 is cost-effective, BYD has not compromised on the powertrain. The Sealion 7 Performance features an 82.56 kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery powering dual electric motors that produce a total of 523 hp (390 kW) and 690 Nm (509 lb-ft) of torque.

      These are impressive specifications, even surpassing the 510 hp (380 kW) and 580 Nm (423 lb-ft) offered by the significantly pricier 2025 Audi SQ6 e-tron I recently drove.

      A Surprisingly Luxurious Interior

      Considering the SUV's competitive pricing, one might expect the interior to feel cheap and poorly constructed. That assumption would be incorrect. BYD has shown that high-quality materials and premium surfaces do not exclusively come from Germany, similar to many of the new vehicles emerging from China.

      The Sealion 7's interior features a large 15.6-inch infotainment screen, like other models from BYD. It can switch between portrait and landscape orientations and stands out as a prominent feature, lacking seamless integration with the dashboard—a trend that can be traced back to Tesla’s Model 3 launch.

      Although the screen's placement may not be ideal, its responsiveness and software are commendable. The display is vibrant and detailed, providing various views and functionalities, including climate control. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard.

      However, what impressed me most was the overall fit and finish. The dashboard, steering wheel, door panels, seats, and console feature a blend of soft-touch leather and suede.

      There’s a gear selector toggle resembling a shiny crystal along with metal buttons for volume, drive modes, and brake regeneration. The piano black plastic panel running across the dashboard is less appealing but is common in many new models.

      There are also some quirky design choices, such as the oddly placed door handles and sporty seats lacking adjustable headrests. However, the seats themselves are very comfortable, with ample support and padding. I also appreciated the metal-like buttons on the steering wheel and doors.

      Other notable standard features include a 50W wireless fast charger and two adjustable cup holders in the center console. A panoramic glass roof also comes standard, complete with a power-operated shade, unlike some Tesla models.

      The rear seats offer plenty of room for adults, with the Sealion 7 Performance providing generous head and legroom despite the sloping roofline. With ambient lighting features, the cabin feels more upscale than the AU$151,400 ($99,000) Audi SQ6 e-tron I drove recently.

      Quick Yet Not Perfect

      With a combined output of 523 hp (390 kW) and 690 Nm (509 lb-ft), it’s no surprise that the Sealion 7 is quick. BYD claims it can reach 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.5 seconds, and it certainly feels as swift as this figure suggests. While the Model Y Performance is