BYD Sets December Orders for Sealion 8 Seven-Seat PHEV in Australia

Overview

• BYD confirmed the Sealion 8 as its first three-row SUV for Australia with orders opening in December and first deliveries expected in early 2026.
• Three trims will launch — Dynamic FWD, Dynamic AWD and Premium AWD — all using a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine and a 200kW front motor, with AWD variants adding a 200kW rear motor.
• The AWD lineup is quoted at 359kW and 675Nm with a 0–100km/h claim of 4.9 seconds, while the FWD variant is listed at 8.6 seconds to 100km/h.
• The FWD uses a 19kWh battery claimed at 103km NEDC electric range, with AWD variants stepping to 35.6kWh and a 152km NEDC claim, and the model features locally tuned suspension.
• Measuring 5040mm by 1996mm by 1760mm with a 2950mm wheelbase, the SUV is larger than a Toyota Kluger and offers 270/960/1960L cargo volumes plus third-row top tethers, with BYD citing strong early interest and planning around 700 sales per month.