BYD Sealion 8 seven-seat PHEV SUV confirmed for New Zealand by early 2026

BYD New Zealand has confirmed that the Sealion 8 plug-in hybrid SUV, a new seven-seat SUV based on the second-generation BYD Tang, will arrive locally by early 2026 — possibly as soon as December 2025.

“We’re hoping to get it slightly ahead of Australia for December,” said BYD NZ country manager Warren Willmot. “But definitely Q1 2026.”

The BYD Sealion 8 is the brand’s largest SUV to date for export markets, joining the smaller Sealion 7 EV. Built on BYD’s latest DM (Dual Mode) 5.0 hybrid platform, it offers two drivetrain options at launch: DM-i (front-wheel drive) and DM-p (dual-motor all-wheel drive).

Both models feature a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine (110kW/220Nm) paired with a front-mounted 200kW electric motor. The DM-p version adds a 141kW rear motor for all-wheel drive and faster acceleration. The Sealion 8 DM-p reaches 0–100km/h in a claimed 4.9 seconds, while the DM-i takes 8.6 seconds.

Battery sizes differ by variant, with the DM-i using a 19.0kWh Blade battery and the DM-p fitted with a 35.6kWh unit. These lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) batteries are part of BYD’s cell-to-body integration strategy for improved efficiency and structural strength. Pure electric range estimates are pending but are likely to exceed 80km (WLTP) in the DM-p.

“Yes, we’ll be taking both drivetrain options — DM-i and DM-p,” Willmot confirmed. “BEV is probably 12 months after initial launch.”

Inside, the BYD Sealion 8 offers a three-row layout for up to seven passengers, dual digital displays, climate control across all rows, and, in DM-p trim, heated and massaging seats in the first and second rows. Safety technology includes adaptive cruise control, lane centring, blind spot detection, and automatic emergency braking.

The BYD Sealion 8 price and specifications for New Zealand will be announced closer to launch. It will sit above the Atto 3 and Sealion 7 in BYD’s local line-up, offering a new electrified option for larger families and fleet buyers.