Family , plug-in hybrid, and with a price to break the market. The BYD Seal 6 DM-I is the second plug-in hybrid from the Chinese automobile manufacturer BYD available in our country. This model continues the successful formula established by the SEAL U DM-I but introduces it in a Berlin format (including a family version, known as the Touring ). The BYD Seal 6 DM-I is ideal for those seeking ample space at a significantly better price compared to its competitors, all while offering substantial long-term savings.
TECHNICAL SHEET OF THE BYD SEAL 6 DM-I
Byd Seal 6 DM-I (Sedan) | Byd Seal 6 DM-I (Touring) | |
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Body type | Five-door | Familiar |
Measures and weight | 4.84 meters long, 1.875 wide, and 1.495 meters high. Wheelbase of 2.79 meters. Weight from 1,665 kg. | 4.84 meters long, 1.875 wide, and 1.505 meters high. Wheelbase of 2.79 meters. Weight from 1,710 kg. |
Trunk | 491 liters. 1,370 liters with the seats folded down. | 500 liters. 1,535 liters with the seats folded down. |
Maximum power |
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Maximum speed and acceleration |
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Battery |
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Autonomy (only electric motor) |
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Total autonomy (electric and combustion) |
| Up to 1,350 km (combined WLTP). |
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DGT environmental badge | ECHO | ECHO |
Others |
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Price and availability | Available from €37,000. | Available from €38,500. |
Is there a better price?
When discussing the BYD Seal U in Xataka , it was highlighted that BYD’s strategy with its plug-in hybrid was nearly flawless. They introduce a family car that is not only comfortable but also much more affordable than competitors like the Toyota C-HR . The Toyota model, while vying to be the best-selling plug-in hybrid, is significantly smaller.
It is hard not to appreciate the BYD Seal 6 DM-I in either its sedan or family variant. The sedan starts at €37,000 (before discounts), while the family variant adds an additional €2,000. Competing models, like the PEUGEOT 308 plug-in hybrid , are available around the €35,000 mark, yet are shorter in length.
In the sub-€40,000 range, few brands offer plug-in hybrids of this size, and certainly none below €45,000. A comparable plug-in hybrid from Skoda starts at around €48,000, demonstrating how BYD’s pricing puts it in an advantageous position.
BYD has successfully penetrated the plug-in hybrid market, putting pressure on established players such as Toyota. The Seal 6 DM-I impresses with its build quality and tech features, including an impressive 15.6-inch screen in higher trims.
Standard features on all models include electric seats, heating and ventilation, a heated steering wheel, vegan leather interior, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera, among others. This vehicle offers a commendable driving experience, significantly enhanced by a lower center of gravity that contributes to better handling.
While the 1.5-liter combustion engine, despite boasting 212 hp, could provide a more responsive acceleration, it typically functions as an electricity generator. In many scenarios, the electric motor does the heavy lifting, resulting in a somewhat subdued driving experience during acceleration. Only when pushed significantly will the combustion engine take over in a more direct driving role.
The BYD Seal 6 DM-I emerges as a substantial contender in the market, particularly appealing to families in search of a spacious, efficient vehicle at an attractive price point. With a base price of €37,000, potential discounts can further reduce this figure, making it an intelligent investment in the plug-in hybrid segment.
In terms of overall value proposition, including the moves III plan incentives for electric autonomy enhancement, the BYD Seal 6 DM-I is a compelling choice for buyers looking for a dependable family vehicle that also prioritizes eco-friendliness.