The BYD Seal Premium is making a good impact in the electric vehicle (EV) market and for good reason. It has an impressive range, luxurious features and a smooth ride. It stands out as one of the most comfortable highway cars available in New Zealand today. In this blog, we’ll review everything about this car and why the BYD Seal Premium is a worthy contender in the EV world. And we’ll talk about its performance, range, technology and many more.
Price and Performance Overview
So, let’s start with the pricing. The BYD Seal Premium comes with a good price range of around $70,000. While that might not be the most budget-friendly option on the market, the value it offers is compelling. With a range of 570 km on a single charge, this car is designed for those who appreciate comfort, technology, and performance.
The BYD Seal Premium is equipped with a single motor that drives the rear wheels, producing 230 kW of power and 360 Nm of torque. This setup allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds. While it may not match the brutal acceleration of the performance model, it’s still impressive and provides a smooth driving experience.
BYD Seal Premium: 3 Models
There are three different versions available of the BYD Seal Premium: Dynamic Model, Premium Model, and Performance Model. The Dynamic model, priced lower, still offers decent features, including a 360° camera system and a vehicle-to-load adapter. However, if you can spare the extra $8,000 for the Premium model, you will enjoy a significant upgrade in comfort and features.
- Performance Model: Dual motors, all-wheel drive, 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds, priced at $88,200.
- Dynamic Model: Single motor, decent range of 460 km, priced lower.
- Premium Model: Best of both worlds, excellent range, and a wealth of features.
Comfort Features
The BYD Seal Premium gives a good range of comfort features that elevate the driving experience. From genuine leather-wrapped seats to a heads-up display that provides essential information right in your line of sight, this car is designed for comfort. It also includes automatic tilting door mirrors, electronic lumbar support, and a courtesy seating feature that allows the seat to move back slightly for easier exit.
Range and Efficiency
One of the standout features of the BYD Seal Premium is its impressive range. Officially rated for 570 km per charge, the real-world performance is still commendable. During a recent road trip to Bethlehem, covering a distance of 149 km, the car displayed a remaining range of 452 km with 75% charge. However, it’s essential to note that real-world conditions can affect this range, especially in winter when heaters are used.
Road Trip Experience
On the road trip, the BYD Seal Premium performed really well. The journey was smooth, aided by its buttery soft suspension. However, after returning from the trip, the range left was only 68 km, indicating that the car used more electricity than the official figures suggested. This is not uncommon, especially when driving in colder temperatures with the heater running.
My Overall Experience
In terms of performance, range and technology the BYD Seal Premium is a worth electric vehicle. So, here is my overall feedback and rate about this car:
- Performance: 6/10 – It’s not a rocket ship, but it’s still faster than most petrol cars.
- Handling: 8/10 – Similar handling to the performance model, offering a smooth ride.
- Comfort: 8/10 – A perfect blend of comfort and cornering ability.
- Efficiency: 7/10 – Real-world driving suggests around 490 km on a full charge.
- Gadgetry: 8/10 – Packed with features, including vehicle-to-load capabilities.
- Value: 7/10 – Excellent features for the price compared to competitors.
- Charging: 5/10 – Some issues with rapid charging were reported.
- Style: 10/10 – Sleek and stylish, a standout in the EV market.
Conclusion: Is the BYD Seal Premium Worth It?
In my opinion, the BYD Seal Premium is the sweet spot between the entry-level Dynamic and the high-performance model. It offers an excellent balance of comfort, technology, and range, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a reliable electric vehicle in New Zealand. While it may not be perfect, its advantages far outweigh the drawbacks, especially for those who prioritize comfort and efficiency.
If you’re in the market for an electric vehicle that combines luxury, performance, and advanced technology, the BYD Seal Premium should be at the top of your list. It has one of the best electric cars available today combining a good interior and impressive range.
