BYD Sealion 5 Conquers Croatia: Family SUV with Excellent Value for Money
The Chinese manufacturer's plug-in hybrid is becoming increasingly common on domestic roads, and our test revealed why Croats are flocking to this model.
The Chinese manufacturer's plug-in hybrid is becoming increasingly common on domestic roads, and our test revealed why Croats are flocking to this model.
When the BYD Sealion 5 first appeared, many dismissed it as just another Chinese SUV that would struggle to break through the dense competition. However, based on the test drive experience reported by Net.hr, it becomes crystal clear after just a few days behind the wheel why this model has become one of the most sought-after plug-in hybrids on the Croatian market.
The first impression the Sealion 5 leaves is not solely tied to its highly competitive price, but to the sense of quality it provides. The cabin is solidly assembled, and the materials used exceed expectations for vehicles in this price class. The physical buttons for climate control and key functions also deserve praise, greatly simplifying daily use.
A modern touch to the interior is provided by the rotating 12.8-inch central screen and digital instrumentation. Spaciousness is another impressive feature, there is ample room even for tall passengers, and the 463-liter trunk easily meets the needs of an average family.
Power comes from BYD's DM-i plug-in hybrid system, which delivers a total output of 212 hp. What sets this system apart from most competitors is that the wheels are almost always driven by the electric motor. The 1.5-liter gasoline engine primarily serves as a generator, giving the car a fully electric feel, it is quiet, smooth, and exceptionally pleasant.
In terms of pure electric driving, the base Comfort version offers up to 62 kilometers of range. The tested Design version, equipped with a larger battery, can cover up to 86 kilometers according to the WLTP standard, and in urban conditions that figure rises to as much as 131 kilometers. With a 52-liter fuel tank, the total range without stopping exceeds 1,000 kilometers.
During the test conducted by Net.hr, fuel consumption varied depending on conditions. With regular battery charging, it averaged around 4.3 liters per 100 kilometers, while on the highway with a depleted battery, it rose to just over 8.5 liters per 100 kilometers.
On the road, the Sealion 5 is primarily a comfortable family SUV. The suspension absorbs bumps excellently, sound insulation is top-notch, and the elevated seating position ensures excellent visibility. While it is not a sports car and its weight is noticeable in corners, it is precisely the outstanding comfort that stands out as its greatest asset.
The biggest downside highlighted in the test is the charging limitation. The Sealion 5 only supports AC charging at a maximum power of 3.3 kW, with no option for fast DC charging. Owners of family homes who can charge overnight will not see this as a problem, but those relying on public charging stations may be disappointed by this limitation.
When all is said and done, the BYD Sealion 5 is not a car bought out of emotion or a desire for sporty performance, but rather for its excellent value for money, equipment, space, and efficiency. The starting price is 28,990 euros, while the tested Design version costs 32,990 euros. It is precisely this combination, as Net.hr concludes, that explains why we see it more and more often on Croatian roads.
