BYD Sealion 6 PHEV spotted testing in India ahead of expected launch

BYD's Sealion 6 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) has been seen testing undisguised on Indian roads. The Sealion 6, also known as Song Plus and Seal U in other markets, is set to become BYD’s first PHEV offering in India. The company aims to expand its presence with new models, local assembly, and a broader dealer network. BYD is also working to diversify its portfolio beyond its current all-electric lineup.

Key Highlights

• BYD Sealion 6 PHEV spotted testing in India ahead of expected launch this year
• Sealion 6 offers two powertrain options with up to 3235 PS combined output and AWD variant likely for India
• Premium features include a 156-inch rotating touchscreen, 10 speaker Infinity audio and advanced safety systems

Sealion 6 Design and Features

The BYD Sealion 6 is a mid-size crossover SUV. It measures 4,775 mm in length, 1,890 mm in width, and 1,670 mm in height. The wheelbase is 2,765 mm. BYD will position the Sealion 6 as a premium, family-focused SUV.

Recent sightings reveal the rear profile, which features a raked rear windshield, connected taillamps, and a rugged bumper with metallic accents. Compared to the Sealion 7, which BYD already sells in India, the Sealion 6 has a more traditional SUV design. It features upright lines, a slatted grille, sharp LED headlamps with DRLs, and a curvy bonnet.

The side profile includes traditional body-colored door handles, a strong shoulder line, chrome window surrounds, 19-inch alloy wheels, body cladding, and a gently sloping roofline.

Inside, the Sealion 6 offers several premium features. These include a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen, a 12.3-inch LCD instrument cluster, and a 10-speaker Infinity audio system. Other highlights are a head-up display, synthetic leather seats and steering wheel, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated and ventilated front seats, a voice assistant, and both USB Type-A and Type-C ports. The SUV also provides two wireless phone chargers, automatic dual-zone air conditioning, keyless entry and start, and a tire-repair kit.

Powertrain Options and Safety

Globally, the BYD Sealion 6 comes with two powertrain options. The first uses a 1.5-litre petrol engine producing 98 PS and 122 Nm of torque, paired with an 18.3 kWh BYD Blade battery. The base front-wheel-drive variant’s electric motor generates 145 kW (197 PS) and 300 Nm, with a combined system output of 160 kW (217.5 PS). This version offers an 80 km pure electric range.

The top variant uses a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine delivering 130.5 PS and 220 Nm. It features all-wheel drive and an electric motor rated at 150 kW (204 PS), for a combined output of 238 kW (323.5 PS). The AWD variant has a pure electric range of 70 km. India is likely to receive the top-spec AWD version.

Safety features include seven airbags, front and rear parking sensors, a rear camera, and a 360-degree surround view system. The Sealion 6 also offers hill hold control, adaptive cruise control, automatic vehicle hold, and a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).

BYD is expected to launch the Sealion 6 in India by the end of this year. The company also plans to introduce other new energy vehicles in the mainstream segment soon.

CarBike 360 Says

The sighting of the BYD Sealion 6 PHEV on Indian roads signals the brand’s intent to strengthen its hybrid portfolio in the country. With its global success and advanced plug-in hybrid technology, the SUV could appeal to buyers seeking efficiency without compromising on performance. An official launch announcement is now eagerly awaited in the coming months.