The BYD Sealion 6 DM-i 1.5L (324 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid AWD E-CVT is a compact SUV introduced by the Chinese manufacturer BYD in 2024. Representing a significant step in BYD’s expansion into global markets, the Sealion 6 is designed to appeal to consumers seeking a fuel-efficient and technologically advanced vehicle. The “DM-i” designation signifies BYD’s Dual Mode-i technology, a sophisticated plug-in hybrid system prioritizing electric driving while retaining the flexibility of a gasoline engine. This particular variant, with its 1.5-liter engine and dual-motor all-wheel-drive configuration, positions itself as a mid-to-upper trim level within the Sealion 6 lineup, offering a balance of performance, efficiency, and features.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BYD |
| Model | Sealion 6 |
| Generation | Sealion 6 |
| Type (Engine) | DM-i 1.5L (324 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid AWD E-CVT |
| Start of production | 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 1.4 l/100 km (168 US mpg, 201.8 UK mpg, 71.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 32 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.5 kg/Hp, 154.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 261.9 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 18.3 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range | 81 km (50.33 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption | 17.9 kWh/100 km (28.81 kWh/100 mi, 117 MPGe, 5.6 km/kWh, 3.5 mi/kWh) |
| Electric motor power (Front) | 204 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (Front) | 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor model/code (Front) | TZ220XYS |
| Electric motor location (Front) | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type (Front) | Synchronous |
| Electric motor power (Rear) | 163 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (Rear) | 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location (Rear) | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type (Rear) | Synchronous |
| System power | 324 Hp |
| System torque | 550 Nm (405.66 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine Power | 131 Hp |
| Power per litre | 87.5 Hp/l |
| Engine Torque | 220 Nm (162.26 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Xiaoyun / BYD476ZQC |
| Engine displacement | 1497 cm3 (91.35 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Kerb Weight | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2510 kg (5533.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 410 kg (903.9 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 425 l (15.01 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1440 l (50.85 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4775 mm (187.99 in.) |
| Width | 1890 mm (74.41 in.) |
| Height | 1670 mm (65.75 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2765 mm (108.86 in.) |
| Front track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1630 mm (64.17 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives front wheels, one electric motor drives front wheels, one electric motor drives rear wheels. Full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | automatic transmission E-CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/50 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Sealion 6 DM-i utilizes BYD’s DM-i (Dual Mode-i) hybrid system. This system centers around a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine (BYD476ZQC), producing 131 horsepower and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque. The engine operates on the Atkinson cycle, prioritizing thermal efficiency over outright power. Crucially, the engine does *not* directly drive the wheels in most driving scenarios. Instead, it functions primarily as a generator, charging the 18.3 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery pack. This battery powers two electric motors – one driving the front wheels (204 hp, 300 Nm) and another driving the rear wheels (163 hp, 250 Nm), providing all-wheel drive capability. The combined system output is 324 horsepower and 550 Nm (405 lb-ft) of torque. The E-CVT (electronically controlled continuously variable transmission) manages power delivery, optimizing efficiency and responsiveness. The DM-i system allows for selectable driving modes, including EV-only mode for zero-emission driving, and a hybrid mode where the engine kicks in to provide additional power or extend range.
Driving Characteristics
The Sealion 6 DM-i 1.5L offers a refined and responsive driving experience. In EV mode, acceleration is brisk and quiet, leveraging the instant torque of the electric motors. The dual-motor AWD system provides excellent traction, particularly in inclement weather. When the gasoline engine engages, the transition is generally seamless, and the combined power output delivers a 0-60 mph time of around 5.6 seconds. The E-CVT transmission contributes to smooth acceleration, although it may lack the direct feel of a traditional automatic. Compared to lower-trim Sealion 6 models with smaller batteries or front-wheel drive, this variant offers significantly enhanced performance and all-weather capability. The heavier battery pack does slightly impact handling agility, but the independent suspension provides a comfortable ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The DM-i 1.5L variant typically comes well-equipped with standard features including a large touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster, leather upholstery, automatic climate control, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras may include a panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, and ventilated front seats. The interior design emphasizes a modern aesthetic with clean lines and high-quality materials.
Chassis & Braking
The Sealion 6 features an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Ventilated disc brakes are used on all four wheels, offering ample stopping power. The electric power steering system provides light and precise steering feel. The vehicle’s relatively low center of gravity, thanks to the underfloor battery pack, contributes to stable handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The BYD Sealion 6 DM-i has been generally well-received by automotive critics, particularly for its fuel efficiency, smooth driving experience, and advanced technology. Its plug-in hybrid powertrain offers a compelling alternative to traditional gasoline-powered SUVs. Compared to other plug-in hybrid SUVs in its class, the Sealion 6 often stands out with its competitive pricing and generous standard features. The LiFePO4 battery technology is also noted for its safety and longevity. However, some reviewers have pointed to the brand’s relative newcomer status in some markets as a potential concern for some buyers.
Legacy
As a relatively new model, the long-term reliability of the Sealion 6 DM-i remains to be fully established. However, BYD has a growing reputation for producing reliable electric vehicles, and the DM-i system has proven to be durable in other models. The LiFePO4 battery technology is known for its long lifespan and thermal stability. On the used car market, the Sealion 6 DM-i is expected to hold its value well, particularly as demand for plug-in hybrid vehicles continues to grow. Its combination of efficiency, performance, and technology positions it as a desirable option for environmentally conscious consumers.
