Tesla Model 3 beater? BYD Seal 2024 review: Premium | Is this new electric car the best EV sedan?

The 2024 BYD Seal is looking to disrupt the mid-size sedan segment, which has come to be dominated by a particular fully electric vehicle, the Tesla Model 3, in recent years. While other EVs have attempted to challenge the sales leader, this new Chinese contender might come the closest to doing so - at least on paper.
For one, the Seal is very aggressively priced, so much so that it undercuts the Model 3's starting price by $12,000 - that's a significant head start, especially considering the former kicks off from a tick under $50,000 plus on-road costs. But it also goes spec for spec in most instances.
So, in this expert review, CarsGuide Senior Journalist Tom White gets behind the wheel of the Seal's mid-spec Premium variant to find out how well it stacks up against the recently facelifted Model 3. With 230kW/360Nm of rear-wheel-drive grunt and a 570km of driving range, it's well positioned to do so.
#BYD #Seal #Review
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Timecodes:
00:00 Intro
00:35 Pricing and features
02:44 Design
05:56 Practicality
08:34 Under the bonnet
08:49 Efficiency
09:41 Driving
13:33 Safety
14:35 Ownership
15:08 Verdict
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Read Tom's full review: bit.ly/3VVdwss
Check out our BYD Seal hub: bit.ly/4709HnL
Find more sedans: bit.ly/3ysIYBl
Visit our EVGuide: bit.ly/3UHO9GT
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[@wentjen]

Tesla beater or not I don’t care. I like it and I just bought one here in Indonesia.

[@nsnaqvi5289]

I love this car!

[@MihirGates]

which model is yours, 3.8 sec one?

[@PsychedMedia]

When will you get your car? In Malaysia BYD said performance variant will only arrive in May

[@eddydarmawan2410]

same here😂 on premium, still waiting

[@vasil7410]

Thanks for the review. One aspect I would have to disagree with is your assessment that the car "isn't just good for a Chinese car", but it's at the level of mainstream and legacy auto makers. This is selling the car short. The Seal clearly sits well ABOVE the mainstream level.

[@thepitbull123100]

Nice review Tom. I’m 5000Ks into ownership of the Performance model. It’s a cracking good car inside and out. It really has exceeded my expectations.

[@Mozzos]

i own the model 3 for 3 years now so looking to buy new car and thinking on this Seal performance. What do you think?

[@wiiagzia9450]

​@@Mozzosgo for a test drive and I think u will order one😂

[@thepitbull123100]

Well I’m biased obviously. While I am an admirer of Tesla tech and infrastructure I’m not a fan of the interior. I was considering the EV6 GT before discovering the Seal. No brainer imo given the 40K price difference. Suggest you check out Tesla Tom’s ludicrousfeed KZbin for some unbiased Seal v T3 comparisons . Spoiler alert - he cancels his T3 Highlander and keeps the Seal.

[@tonypaca3015]

only problem is the gross interior design and gross software UI. Other than that im pretty sure everyone knows how superior the seal is to the model 3

[@sameersyed1300]

What is the expected real world range on highways and in city driving?

[@mj9172]

Get mine this week. Goodbye cartel priced petrol , hello Chinese espionage 😂😂😂

[@Tdzzz450]

Matches your iPhone too!

[@PJ21212]

Nah not comparable to an iphone, but one of those knock off cheap as chips bargain basement ones.

[@SS-yw7vo]

The change will do you good

[@fastfil]

@@PJ21212 lol BYD makes half the world's ipads.

[@PJ21212]

@@fastfil knock off Tesla.

[@erhuforever]

The BYD Seal actually looks much more attractive than the latest Tesla Model 3. It looks like a product from a German manufacturer. If you stick a Porsche badge on it, most people who have never heard of BYD won't even blink an eye.

[@manofleisure75]

It was designed by a German lol. Former Audi/Lambo designer.

[@zes7215]

wr

[@Another_opinion_]

Wow. I could have written your review 😂. Same thoughts. I've actually really liked it and, coming from a BMW series 3 driver, I was very impressed by its handling. Not at BMW level, but very good. To add a couple of points, I've tested both this one and the model 3 on a 40+ degree day and the difference in heat coming from the sunroof was very noticeable (the seal way cooler). The other point is that byd seems quite attentive to its customers base. They have quickly addressed many shortcomings of the safety system and I wouldn't be surprised if they kept tuning the software to improve the experience. Really a good car.

[@dalepurton8118]

I've had my performance model for 4 months now. I have 3-phase in my house so I added a wall charger in the garage to charge at 7kw - can charge it fully in a day when the sun is beating down on my solar panels - almost free fuel!!! But the car - now I have received the first software update it has mostly solved the nagging issues - I still turn off front cross traffic braking and traffic sign alert to shut up the speed-nanny. But otherwise it goes like stink, handles with aplomb, and rides beautifully. Rear passengers I think get the best view with that massive panoramic roof. For the price I'm blown away. I have it on a novated lease and it's cheaper per month than my previous RAV4 hybrid. And this has THREE HUNDRED AND NINETY KILOWATTS.

[@willwong2136]

Having it for first 10,000km now. Whole family loves it. The most surprising part is the glass roof, didn’t disappoint us during the whole summer, never get a chance to put the shade on.

[@davids5313]

who knew buttons in an electric car would be a good idea .... instead of just one giant screen

[@noodlefoo]

And indicator stalk and gear selector...

[@oliviercoulon5196]

That isn't even in front of the driver. Tesla's interiors are not just unergonomic, they should be illegal. Very distracting for the driver.

[@noodlefoo]

@@oliviercoulon5196 Have to agree with you. Too many tasks require you to look at the centre screen and menu, not much different from texting on your phone while you are driving. Distracting and dangerous.

[@zes7215]

wrrr

[@OlyMar83]

Great effort by BYD for a first generation version for Australia. The highland is has had great reviews For its improvements so far. This seal will only improve more.

[@farisikhmal4868]

i love the design

[@vasil7410]

Small but useful detail not mentioned, the wireless chargers can be individually disabled.

[@308_Negra_Arroyo_Lane]

What's wrong with just using android? It's guaranteed to work rather than some proprietary system that might crash on you.

[@mahonjt]

I should say, this is also a very good review from a driving experience perspective.

[@shenzhenmaster]

2011 Musk was asked about his competitor BYD, he laughed and responded, "Have you seen their car?

[@serpserpserp]

Well he was right back then. I don't like the guy but you can't hold that against him.

[@AL-tq1q]

Good for Australians! Here in Canada, we have nothing but Tesla.

[@Discovery2024-rn8kn]

Elon thanks you for self awarded salary of 50 billion

[@user-jz3tp7ep9w]

Heads up Display?

[@leerizer]

I hope BYD will start exporter Denza

[@stevanusrahardjo4639]

BYD by WarrenBuffet

[@mahonjt]

So are the dual wireless chargers "wearing Tesla on their sleeve" or "a great touch" - likewise, is the screen just a "Android re-skin or is it "better than a lot of the software on the market to be fair"? I agree about the shifter and the current representation of the digital dials, however.

[@passby8070]

Seal is objectively better looking, period.

[@MrGanbat84]

I really loved with this beast 😊

[@russellchristison8425]

I really like the Seal in the spec you’ve tested but the boot is disappointing, I currently own a Passat sedan, the Passat boot is 205 litres bigger and has a full size spare under the boot floor but otherwise I could be tempted here.

[@jamesjiang7850]

I'm struggling to make a decision between byd SEAL or SEALION

[@dingbatt]

Not sure if you were criticising it for copying Tesla for the dual wireless charger or applauding it? Kind of sounded like you did both. Android skinning of the Infotainment aside, it looks better if you set it to “dark mode” and the fact it has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity is a bonus. And it has a HUD, which its main competitors lack. Where BYD needed to “take inspiration from” Polestar rather than Tesla is in the boot. If they had made it a liftback rather than a separate boot, it would have been that much better.

[@UvinMeemaduma]

100% agree with the boot comment. Should have been a lift back

[@Epic_SS]

i wonder where this place is

[@TB-up4xi]

In and around the Northern Beaches area in Sydney - the EVIE charger in the clip is the one behind the Dee Why Market shopping centre.

[@kpkaus]

From my research BYD Seal has more safety features than Tesla Model 3.

[@TB-up4xi]

Your research is incorrect - similar safety features, just that the ones on the Tesla work infinitely better.

[@kpkaus]

@@TB-up4xi Does Tesla have Cross Traffic Alert (Front and Rear), Hill holder, Driver attention detection, Side door exit warning, and Adaptive speed limiter - road sign recognition?

[@kpkaus]

docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/15J5iNHGSPgTW7K4S1Iq3cQbqYQbuvQUt/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=117374046281748949917&rtpof=true&sd=true

[@TB-up4xi]

@@kpkausAs I thought - misinformed, It does have driver attention detection, it does have hill holder, it does have door open warning (any door), it does have an adaptive speed limiter, it does have adaptive speed on cruise crontrol, it does have selectable distance control when using autopilot, it does have speed (and other) road sign recognition like stop signs. Correct Teslas do not have full cross traffic alert with alert sounds but the edge of the cameras are super wide angle and light up red in reverse as a warning, however in Addition to the BYD safety features it also has traffic camera color recognition, it also auto sets the car to park if you open the door while stationary, it also has auto walk away lock, oh and collision avoidance system that actually works. All of these things came standard with my base model RWD.

[@Jack-xe3uc]

⁠@@TB-up4xiIt appears you wrote a very salty comment, to justify that you bought Tesla Model 3 (ghetto RWD version). Your Tesla Model 3 is superior that “it has a collision avoidance system that actually work” - if you are truly honest and believable, would you like to put it to test to prove yourself?

[@a9udn9u-vanced]

It seems Chinese companies take a very different approach in building user interface, they usually put more contents up front, make it "busier" looking and they care less about color consistency. Japanese and Korean companies do similar things. The BYD central console is no different

[@pbubalo]

Narrabeen is an awesome place!

[@ex2044]

The exterior design of Seal is designed by JuanMa Lopez from Lamborghini and the interior is designed by Michele Paganetti from Mercedes Maybach

[@peterburdett8131]

I think you need to update your claim that the Seal has one of the highest WLTP range. Bigger battery with less range than Tesla M3 LR? I’d probably buy one today if I was in the market but it isn’t better than Tesla in anyway

[@kasmstamps1897]

Would i like a Tesla? Yep. What did i get? Dynamic Seal, solar panels and 40 TSLA. Just got what i could afford at this stage. Hopefully I'll be able to afford higher spec stuff in 3-5years time. And then have another 10-15 years to enjoy.

[@Retired.at.40.Bored.at.50]

You spent zero minutes on the software. Other than charging, It's hands down the most important part of an EV.

[@JinghuaN2G]

I don't know as long as it is fast and cool, What's wrong with an Android resin?

[@williamlambert352]

Very nice looking car for 2024 BYD Seal sedan auto electric car premium

[@PJ21212]

Not premium but a budget/ yellow pack brand. Cheap as chips.

[@bent9571]

Certainly is much better looking.

[@RjWolf3000]

Does it not have a glove box?

[@johnlambert1744]

So the advantages of a Model 3 over this are: Access to ALL Tesla Superchargers Ability to automatically preheat battery for fast DC charging Inbuilt navigation showing SOC at destination, etc. and ability to reroute if needed No regular servicing (saving you at least $300 a year) Full remote connectivity using mobile app (BYD is very limited in features) Slightly more efficient Inbuilt apps are a lot more extensive (eg. Netflix, Disney+, etc.) Sentry Mode (including ability to view live camera views remotely) BYD Seal is certainly a great car for sure, particularly for those who want something more traditional than a Tesla. It's definitely great value for money too.

[@azzanz]

Out of all the things you mentioned for me only 2 are things I wish I had. Sentry Mode -This would amazing but by sounds of it due to privacy issues BYD don't plan on it at all. Tesla App. BYD app is getting better and you know what, maybe one day ot will get there. Tesla is far better. The rest I would say are things that either will be updated, or are and just being refined. The inbuilt navigation now does rerouting, and show how far you can get on your SOC. This all in first update. Previous version did not. One note how much does a Tesla user pay for data? $10 a month...for nothing. That's free with BYD. While you mention service charges, they do have schedule list of checks and top ups, so I don't think that's a bad thing. Add the 9 years of this, car is still cheaper than base tesla. Next let's mention things Telsla will never get V2L - Plugged my freezer in during blackout, was great! Ppl with medical conditions and remote have also used this to survive. HUD between this and great voice control, honestly I hardly use the big screen. Apple Car play and Android Auto. I hear Tesla now shows speed cameras....only if you plot course. Indicator stalks - haven't seen a tesla indicate so maybe you dont need them? Trickle charger, included free Sure no full size spare, but you do get puncture repair kit free

[@azzanz]

Don't forget how long Tesla have been refining their software to where they are now. Seal has had one update. It fixed things that I personally (as an owner of one) think should have meant the car wasn't sold, but that my opinion.

[@PsychedMedia]

The Seal centre screen is an android tablet, if you know your gadgets you can sideload any apps thats available on android into your car's screen

[@serpserpserp]

@@PsychedMedia or just use the wireless android auto?

[@jspanga]

@@PsychedMedia i wouldn't..

[@Maige2900]

a meat pie stamp of approval

[@PrinceXavier016]

There is nothing wrong at all with an Android reskin 😅

[@glennnolan1]

Unless you're an Apple fanboy? 🤣

[@serpserpserp]

Often a skin can keep it snappy. You do a full redevelopment but still use android as a base and after your first version anything you add to it becomes hard to optimise and also keep up to date if it is too custom.

[@jspanga]

agreed, except that they lock down the apps - can't put a charger finder, fast food drive thru or even just youtube on there

[@JJ-yg1sf]

donot forget tesla and polestar also made in China. Byd has wide range of cars, only provide low and medium level cars for AU markets.

[@NYCyyc]

I wish BYD launch in the US 😢

[@Discovery2024-rn8kn]

Your government said its a national security risk

[@NYCyyc]

@@Discovery2024-rn8kn they are stupid!

[@cheungchingtong]

miles ahead of a lot of its Chinese contemporaries in this department? dude, maybe go have a check on the upcoming Shanghai Auto Show.

[@user-tv6re6mk1q]

Just brought Seall….too many old boring Model 3…

[@ztz818]

这个是不是国内不到10万那个

[@iviingivia4158]

不是，国内20～30

[@Bibigomandu]

All BYD cara are designed by German these days

[@kelsey_roy]

But Tesla has a better software hands down

[@DK-si2xy]

Software yes car no

[@azzanz]

Software gets upgraded over time. Not so easy to have HUD in a Tesla, or V2L, or non reliance on single screen. Don't forget also that BYD give you option for Apple Car Play and Android Auto.

[@pauld6556]

My Car formally Kmart Tyre and Auto. I wouldn’t take my lawn mower to them. Massive let down they chose them. Would be something that certainly stops me from buying one.

[@noel9868]

Looks almost identical to Tesla, no surprise there

[@birdyashiro1226]

？？

[@idontfollowyou]

Just "No"el

[@sergeikorolev922]

Something wrong with your eyes bro

[@Discovery2024-rn8kn]

He wats to see Tesla in BYD

[@geoffreyanderson1758]

Junk

[@Slayer-33]

Good argument, lol... NOT

[@zaphodsbluecar9518]

You can tell this is a paid advertorial - no mention of the continuous bings & bongs that are - literally - continuous. And the lane-keeping is atrocious - even the BYD sales guy admitted it. For ~$10K extra, buy the Model 3. You'll save most of that in servicing fees, and get a much better car.

[@chlim8311]

Does the car smell like rice?

[@Slayer-33]

Ohhh, what an argument. Incredible

[@Macreno1]

People should keep in mind that this not a cheap car but rather artificially lowered priced car by chinese government to disrupt the market.

[@momcilopucar8749]

@macreno......👈🤫🤐 Typical China haters talking.🤫🤐👎 Western Cars prices are artificially inflated/overpriced. How about that reality.👈😝😖

[@eddybourke8286]

Goodness, the interior! Dark, busy, over styled. A no for me.

[@josephkariba8676]

OK bot

[@azzanz]

If the cult of Elon told them that you don't need wheels they would be on board with that

[@rcast3763]

🤣

[@PJ21212]

A poor mans Tesla.

[@idontfollowyou]

You must be blind to the bad fit and finish of the Tesla Model S & X's and they are the "supposed" high end Tesla cars. Your comment my friend is a "A dumb man's comment" and learn to use punctation, you are showing you lack of education.

[@pgilb70]

Good car but a state funded company. A purchase is supporting the state. Personal choice.

[@Tuzi523]

BYD is not state owned, SAIC Motor is.

[@JonySmith-bb4gx]

😂😂😂byd was privatized in 1986 😂😂😂

[@Vass122]

No such thing as "privatized" in China....big dollars have been given by the Chinese gov to fund overseas expansion. Over AUD $5B is the current estimate to date. Its political interference in an "open" free market.

[@perpetualgrin5804]

No laws are breached in purchasing PRC goods.

[@Vass122]

@@perpetualgrin5804 I agree, that's not my point. State backed funding at this scale is the reason the EU and US are reviewing their current import polices. Free market distortion from China is concerning to their domestic car industries.

[@KP-xi4bj]

"While BYD Expands Abroad, Another Han EV Catches Fire - What's Wrong With It?" - autoevolution (Aug. 18, 2022) "Chinese BYD electric car explodes while charging outside shopping mall" - Newsflare (Sep. 3, 2023) "BYD electric car catches fire at Hong Kong charging station, expert says short circuit could be the cause" - South China Morning Post (Jan. 26, 2024) BYD = Bury Your Dead

[@idontfollowyou]

Oh good citing of cases, want to cite Tesla's catching fires & ICE cars too?

[@KP-xi4bj]

@@idontfollowyou In the third example, an Atto 3 with the supposedly fire-proof blade battery caught fire. BYD = Bury Your Dead

[@idontfollowyou]

@@KP-xi4bj Where is your bleeding heart for the Tesla fires & the ICE car fires? Or are you just salty that China now makes better cars than where you come from? It's ok sweet heart, keep coping with your narrow mind & negative comments. 😇

[@LCCATCX]

@@KP-xi4bj Only 3 such incidents out of millions of BYD on the road? I feel very safe now. Thanks a lot !

[@KP-xi4bj]

@@LCCATCX Just a few examples. Do a search for Chinese EV fires.

[@blackcat.19]

This thing is ugly!!!

[@idontfollowyou]

Said your mother when she saw you.

[@blackcat.19]

@@idontfollowyou ture. My mother at least kept me and your mother left you in a dumpster!

[@idontfollowyou]

Aww did I say something true there sweet heart? Is that why you had such a strong reaction? Better run to your mum to make you feel better. Bye little fragile person.

[@david50665]

​@@blackcat.19excellent comeback

[@Discovery2024-rn8kn]

​@@blackcat.19still didnt raise you right, you might as well been raised in a dumpster

[@Peace.25123]

THE VACCINE E CARS. WHICH IS MORE DANGEROUS, COVID VACCINE OR THE RADIATION FROM ELECTRIC CARS? JUST LIKE COVID ELECTRIC CARS ARE NOT ALL A BIG LIE,

[@OTPulse]

And just like diesel and petroleum fumes. What's your point?

[@azzanz]

Think the point is they have been inhaling them concentrated