Chinese automaker BYD continues its expansion into the Czech automotive market with the introduction of the Sealion 5 plug-in hybrid SUV, measuring 4,738 mm in length, which positions it well above the Hyundai Tucson at 4,510 mm and just slightly behind the second-generation Škoda Kodiaq at 4,758 mm, according to automotive reports published by Novinky and tested by journalist Jan Handrejch.
Exterior Design and Dimensions of BYD Sealion 5
The Sealion 5 features a conservative design approach aimed at appealing to traditional buyers. According to road test evaluations published by Novinky, the front fascia is dominated by a prominent grille framed by faux air intakes, flanked by standard LED headlights that incorporate dynamic welcoming features in higher trim levels. The side profile showcases an elegant character line running the entire length of the vehicle, paired with a gently sloping roofline and a D-pillar garnish. Wheel arches feature subtle plastic cladding housing 18-inch alloy wheels, while the rear fenders accommodate the fuel filler on one side and the charging port on the other. A wide tailgate and LED rear lighting round out the exterior layout.
Interior Layout, Cabin Space, and Infotainment
Inside the cabin, the layout follows a traditional layout featuring an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster paired with a massive 12,8-inch central infotainment touchscreen, as reported by Novinky. While the system offers vast display space, testers noted that the home screen leaves much of the area underutilized, requiring users to navigate multiple submenus. Although the interior retains several physical buttons, many vehicle controls remain integrated into the touchscreen interface. Storage compartments within the cabin are relatively modest, but the cargo area provides a basic capacity of 463 liters. Folding the 60:40 split rear seats expands the total volume to 1,410 liters with a nearly flat load floor, supplemented by a practical organizer under the double floor. Towing capacity is capped at 750 kilograms.
DM-i Plug-In Hybrid Powertrain and Performance Specs
At the core of the Sealion 5 is BYD’s proprietary DM-i (Dual Mode intelligent) plug-in hybrid system, which pairs a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder combustion engine producing 72 kW (98 hp) and 122 Nm of torque with a front electric motor rated at 145 kW (197 hp) and 300 Nm of torque, yielding a combined system output of 156 kW (212 k), according to technical data provided by Novinky. The combustion engine primarily functions as an energy generator for the hybrid system while directly driving the wheels at higher speeds to maximize efficiency. Energy is stored in a floor-mounted BYD Blade LFP battery with a capacity of 18.3 kWh in the tested Design trim level, which delivers a claimed combined electric driving range of 88 kilometers. Combined with a 52-liter fuel tank, the vehicle targets a total driving range exceeding 1,000 kilometers and a WLTP fuel consumption figure of 2.1 l/100 km.
On the road, the vehicle accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 8.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 170 km/h with a curb weight of 1,749 kilograms. Real-world testing by Novinky demonstrated that even with a fully depleted battery, fuel consumption on regional roads and in urban traffic remained around 6 l/100 km, rising to approximately 8 l/100 km during dynamic highway driving. The chassis is tuned heavily toward comfort, absorbing standard road irregularities effectively, though rough potholes can send harsh impacts into the cabin. The vehicle relies exclusively on front-wheel drive, with no all-wheel-drive variant currently available.
Pricing and Trim Levels in the Czech Market
Pricing for the BYD Sealion 5 starts at 765,000 CZK for the entry-level Comfort trim, which drops with an active Tech bonus, according to market pricing data shared by Novinky. The tested flagship Design trim level, featuring the larger 18.3 kWh battery and expanded standard equipment, carries a standard price of 839,000 CZK, which lowers to 769,900 CZK with current promotional incentives. The only available factory extra is exterior paint customization.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the electric-only range of the BYD Sealion 5?
According to manufacturer data for the tested Design trim, the 18.3 kWh BYD Blade battery provides a combined electric driving range of up to 88 kilometers. -
What is the maximum towing capacity of the plug-in hybrid SUV?
The Sealion 5 is rated to pull an unbraked trailer up to a maximum weight of 750 kilograms. -
How much does the BYD Sealion 5 cost in the Czech Republic?
Base pricing starts at 765,000 CZK for the Comfort trim, dropping with applicable tech bonuses, while the high-spec Design trim starts at 769,900 CZK with active promotional discounts.
Did you know? The BYD Sealion 5 measures 4,738 mm long, making it substantially larger than traditional compact options like the Hyundai Tucson while closely approaching the footprint of the second-generation Škoda Kodiaq.
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