BYD Sealion 6 PHEV Spotted Testing in India Ahead of 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 tail lamps, 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-coloured 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, power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated and ventilated front seats, 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.