BYD Sealion 7

Being an SUV boosts its appeal, especially with ground clearance increased to 170mm from the Seal’s 145mm. Its proportions, though, lean more towards coupe SUV, with a sloping roof and tightly drawn curves masking its 4.8m length and 2.9m wheelbase. While it shares the Seal’s ‘Ocean X’ design language, the Sealion’s taller nose adds visual heft. Contrasting black trim, large wheel arches housing 19- or 20-inch wheels, and a massive rear diffuser help balance this.

Inside, the design is more conventional than the Seal’s. The signature 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen returns, accompanied by a flat-panel digital driver’s display. Cabin quality impresses, with soft-touch materials nearly everywhere. The front seats are plush and ventilated, while the rear seats recline generously, with ample legroom thanks to the long wheelbase. Though seat height is low, large glass areas keep the space airy.

The AWD’s 530hp, 690Nm powertrain hits 100kph in 4.5 seconds. Both variants deliver smooth, progressive power at low speeds, though road noise creeps in at higher speeds, especially from the rear.

It packs an 82.56kWh battery offering 567km (NEDC) for the RWD version and 542km for the AWD. Our real world test of the AWD version however, returned only 370km, thanks to a low efficiency of 4.5km/kWh. DC fast charging is rated at 150kW, but the home charger’s 7kW limit is disappointing.

The Sealion 7 doesn’t pretend to be sporty. It rolls through corners, unlike the Seal sedan, but serves its purpose as a plush luxury car. The slightly firm ride better controls its 2.3-tonne weight, though the 20-inch wheels thump over bumps.

Feature highlights include a vast fixed glass roof with a powered blind, regular AC vents, slick screens, wireless phone integration, a Dynaudio system, ventilated wireless charger and a heads-up display. The infotainment UI has improved, but too many controls remain touchscreen-only. Safety kit includes 11 airbags, Level 2 ADAS, a 360-degree camera and a (overly sensitive) attentiveness monitor.

Priced at Rs 48.90-54.90 lakh, it’s a compelling luxury EV, well-equipped and genuinely premium inside. While its network is smaller than rivals, the Sealion 7 stands out as one of the best in its class.