The facelifted BYD Seal 05 DM-i plug-in hybrid SUV has made its official debut. The model, which was previously listed in filings with China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), maintains the same exterior design as its all-electric counterpart and introduces a new, larger 26.6 kWh battery pack.
Exterior Design The vehicle retains BYD's Ocean Aesthetics design language, characterized by a dynamic and compact profile with high visual recognition. It continues the brand's "Ocean Wave Ripple" design philosophy. The front features a closed-off grille paired with a full-width LED light bar. The sharp-looking headlights have a clear internal structure, and the lower bumper incorporates vertically-oriented air curtains to enhance the sporty feel.
Dimensions The new Seal 05 DM-i measures 4620 mm in length, 1860 mm in width, and 1630 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2770 mm, positioning it as a compact SUV. This represents a noticeable change from the current model, which measures 4726/1880/1720 mm with a 2712 mm wheelbase. The side profile features flowing lines, semi-concealed door handles, blacked-out window trim, and a split D-pillar design that creates a floating roof effect. It rides on 18-inch two-tone petal-style alloy wheels, with black side skirts adding visual depth.
The rear design is clean and substantial, featuring blacked-out full-width taillights with a distinctive brand-specific light signature and a central "BYD" emblem. A two-piece spoiler sits atop the tailgate, and the rear bumper has a robust look, with exhaust tips hidden for a clean finish that echoes the front design.
Interior Inside, the Seal 05 DM-i adopts a wraparound "Ocean Rhythm" cockpit design, aiming for a balance between homely comfort and technology. An Almond Beige color scheme is available, with extensive soft-touch materials on the seats and dashboard, accented by fine stitching and chrome trim. The cabin is equipped with an embedded full digital instrument cluster and an adaptive rotating central touchscreen. The area around the screen is covered by a continuous trim panel, simplifying physical controls to a row of core function buttons. The three-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel is complemented by a column-mounted electronic gear selector. The center console features dual wireless phone charging pads for added convenience.
Powertrain The vehicle continues to use a 1.5-liter plug-in hybrid powertrain. According to MIIT filings, the engine produces a maximum power of 74 kW, while the drive motor delivers 120 kW. Two battery capacities have been filed: 18.3 kWh and the new 26.6 kWh unit. Their corresponding WLTC pure electric driving ranges are 102 km and 151/155 km, respectively.
