Electric vehicles (EVs) have come a long way, and while legacy automakers have been slow to adapt, Chinese manufacturers like BYD are rapidly advancing. The 2024 BYD Seal is a prime example of this progress, directly challenging established models like the Tesla Model 3.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive into the features, performance, and overall experience of the BYD Seal, and why it might just be the EV you’ve been waiting for.
BYD Seal Vs. The Competition
The BYD Seal is a mid-sized sedan that combines style, space, impressive range, and powerful performance. Priced competitively, it starts at £45,695 ($57,100) for the single motor variant and £48,695 ($61,000) for the dual motor version. To put it into perspective, a top-spec Volkswagen ID.4 GTX costs around £53,205 ($67,900) and has its share of flaws, making the BYD Seal an attractive alternative.
The Blade Battery Advantage
At the heart of the BYD Seal is the 80kWh Blade battery, a proprietary technology from BYD. The Blade battery design maximizes energy density and ensures safety through rigorous testing for fire, penetration, and crushing. This results in impressive performance metrics: the rear motor version offers a range of 354 miles and 313 hp, while the dual motor version delivers 323 miles and a whopping 530 hp, accelerating from 0-62 mph in just 3.8 seconds.
Design and Aesthetics
Exterior Design
The BYD Seal is undeniably handsome, with sleek lines and aerodynamic features that make it stand out. The bright ‘vents’ at the front add to its visual appeal, making it noticeable yet not overly flashy. While it’s a new player in markets like the UK, it manages to draw attention without the need for excessive branding.
Interior Quality and Technology
Inside, the BYD Seal feels luxurious. The use of high-quality materials and a futuristic design ensures a pleasant driving experience. The interior features two main displays: a 10.25-inch instrument panel for efficiency, speed, and range information, and a standout 15.65-inch central display that will allow you to watch any kind of tv show or even creampie porn videos. This large screen is not only clear and responsive but can also rotate between landscape and portrait orientations, offering flexibility in use.
Usability Concerns
While the interior is mostly impressive, there are a few usability issues. The indicator stalk is positioned on the right, which can be confusing for drivers used to it being on the left. The built-in navigation system can sometimes lead to suboptimal routes, and the lack of haptic feedback on the central display can make precise navigation challenging. Additionally, the autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system can be overly cautious, and the speed limit warning system occasionally misreads signs, which can be annoying.
Driving Experience
Performance on the Road
Despite some initial frustrations, the BYD Seal offers a solid driving experience. The range estimator is accurate, even under various driving conditions. During a typical spring day, the mileage matched the estimated range closely, which is reassuring for EV drivers.
City and Highway Driving
In urban settings, the BYD Seal is easy to maneuver, thanks to its light controls. The 12-speaker Dynaudio sound system provides excellent audio quality, enhancing the driving experience. On the highway, the Seal’s sound-deadening features work well, ensuring a quiet ride. The car offers three driving modes—Eco, Normal, and Sport—each providing different levels of performance. Eco mode is sufficient for most driving needs, while Sport mode delivers impressive acceleration and responsiveness.
Handling and Comfort
While the BYD Seal is not a lightweight sports car, it offers a fun driving experience, especially in Sport mode. The car handles well, though it can feel heavy at times. The ride is generally smooth, but it leans towards a sporty feel, which can result in a slightly firmer ride. The steering, while not the most engaging, is adequate for a family sedan.
Verdict
Final Thoughts on the BYD Seal
The BYD Seal demonstrates that Chinese automakers are serious contenders in the EV market. It combines good looks, impressive performance, and a range that competes with top models like the Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Ioniq 6. While it has a few quirks and usability issues, these are relatively minor compared to the overall package.
Why You Should Consider the BYD Seal
If you’re in the market for an EV that offers a balance of performance, range, and value, the BYD Seal is worth considering. Its advanced battery technology, combined with a well-designed interior and competitive pricing, makes it a strong contender in the EV landscape. Whether you’re looking for a family car or an everyday commuter, the BYD Seal has a lot to offer.
Potential Drawbacks
It’s important to note some potential drawbacks. The BYD Seal is still a new entrant in markets outside of China, which means brand recognition and dealership support might be limited initially. Additionally, some of the tech features, like the navigation system and speed limit warnings, could use refinement.
Conclusion
The 2024 BYD Seal is a testament to how far Chinese EV manufacturers have come. With its combination of style, technology, and performance, it stands as a viable alternative to established models like the Tesla Model 3.
While it has a few areas that could be improved, the overall experience it offers is impressive, making it a strong contender for anyone considering an electric vehicle.
If you have the opportunity to test drive the BYD Seal, you might find yourself pleasantly surprised by what this newcomer has to offer.