The Seal U Super Hybrid from BYD won’t win any design awards, but its user-friendly technology will endear it to some
What is it?
The BYD Seal U Super Hybrid is a plug-in hybrid SUV (PHEV) designed as a middle ground for those not yet ready to go fully electric. As part of BYD’s expanding lineup in Ireland, it combines a petrol engine with an electric motor, offering up to 80km of electric-only driving and a total range of over 1,000km. With a focus on efficiency and practicality, it’s positioned as a family-friendly alternative in the growing hybrid SUV market.
Styling?
The Seal U isn’t exactly a head-turner. Unlike its sleeker sibling, the BYD Seal, this SUV sticks to a more conventional and functional design. While it won’t win any style awards, its clean, inoffensive look may appeal to buyers prioritizing substance over flash.
Under the Bonnet?
Underneath, the Seal U Super Hybrid pairs a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and an 18.3kWh battery pack. According to BYD, the petrol engine boasts the world’s highest thermal efficiency, ensuring better fuel economy. The electric-only range is 80km, making it ideal for city driving, while a full charge from 30% to 80% takes just 35 minutes with fast charging. The car also supports Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology, allowing it to power appliances or devices when needed.
What About Inside?
Step inside, and the Seal U blends practicality with premium touches. Soft-touch materials, vegan leather, and a spacious cabin make for a comfortable ride. The highlight is the 15.6-inch rotating infotainment screen, which switches between portrait and landscape mode. Rear legroom is generous, making it a great choice for families, while the flat rear floor enhances comfort for middle-seat passengers.
The boot space isn’t massive due to the battery, but folding down the rear seats expands capacity to 1,440 litres—enough for daily errands but less ideal for big shopping hauls.
And Safety?
Safety is a strong point for BYD. The Seal U Super Hybrid earned a five-star Euro NCAP rating and comes loaded with features, including:
✔ Blind Spot Detection
✔ Adaptive Cruise Control
✔ Lane Change Assist
✔ Rear Cross Traffic Alert
These make it a solid choice for families prioritizing safety on the road.
Options?
The BYD Seal U Super Hybrid is available in three trim levels: Boost, Comfort, and Design, each catering to different driver priorities.
- Boost – 18.3kWh battery, 80km electric range, and FWD drivetrain.
- Comfort steps up with a larger 26.6kWh battery, extending its electric range to 124km combined (168km city).
- Design is the most powerful, featuring AWD, a 323PS output, and a 0-100km/h sprint in just 5.9 seconds. With a top speed of 180km/h.
Rivals?
The Seal U enters a competitive PHEV SUV market, going up against models like:
- Ford Kuga PHEV (€45,930)
- Hyundai Tucson PHEV (€42,495)
- Kia Sportage PHEV (€49,495)
- MG HS PHEV (€40,995)
- Toyota RAV4 PHEV (€52,035)
Will it Break the Bank?
With a starting price of €42,150, the BYD Seal U Super Hybrid is one of the more affordable PHEVs on the market. Running costs are also kept in check thanks to low CO2 emissions (26g/km) and annual motor tax of just €140.
For buyers looking to save on fuel while avoiding full EV commitment, this hybrid makes financial sense.
Verdict
The BYD Seal U Super Hybrid ticks all the right boxes for practicality, efficiency, and value. It’s spacious, packed with tech, and offers a solid electric range for a PHEV. However, it lacks the driving engagement or premium appeal of some rivals.
For those prioritizing affordability and functionality over thrills, the Seal U is a strong contender. But as EV technology advances, PHEVs like this may soon feel outdated—making this more of a short-term stepping stone rather than a long-term solution.
Facts
- Starting Price: €42,150
- Engine: 1.5-litre petrol with electric motor
- Transmission: Automatic CVT, FWD
- CO2 Emissions: 26g/km
- Motor Tax: €140 per year
- Battery Pack: 18.3kWh
- Electric Range: 80km
- Body Style: Five-door crossover
- Charging Time (30%-80%): 35 minutes (fast charging)
- Dealerships: Available in six locations (Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Waterford, Wexford)
