BYD is expanding its plug-in hybrid lineup in Australia with the introduction of the new Sealion 5, positioning it as the cheapest PHEV SUV currently on sale.
Priced from just $33,990 (excluding on-road costs), the Sealion 5 undercuts most electrified SUVs currently on sale and signals BYD’s intent to push further into the mainstream family segment. It’s being offered in two variants – Essential and Premium – and is underpinned by BYD’s DM-i 4.0 plug-in hybrid platform.
The setup provides an electric range of up to 100km on the NEDC cycle, while retaining the flexibility of a petrol engine for longer trips. BYD claims a total driving range of close to 1000km, which is less than a current RAV4 hybrid AWD; 1145km under the official combined cycle.
Both variants use BYD’s Blade Battery technology, with either a 12.9kWh unit for the base or 18.3kWh for the Premium. These offer a range of 71km and 100km, respectively. Both also use a 1.5-litre petrol and offer an overall output of 156kW.
While the pricing is aggressive, BYD says the Sealion 5 has been developed to meet everyday needs rather than acting as a stripped-back entry model. BYD Australia chief operating officer Stephen Collins said:
“Australians want real choice when it comes to electric mobility solutions, and the Sealion 5 offers that at a price point that will appeal to Australian families. The Sealion 5 raises the bar in terms of new energy vehicle accessibility, without compromising on the features that make BYD great.”
The Sealion 5 joins a growing list of BYD models in Australia, following the recent introduction of the Atto 1 and Atto 2. Order books are open now, with prices starting from the following (excluding on-road costs):
2026 BYD Sealion 5 Essential PHEV: $33,990
2026 BYD Sealion 5 Premium PHEV: $37,990
