BYD Seal 2024 review

[@geoffdmck]

Overseas reviewers have absolutely praised the suspension and handling of the Seal, so I'm a bit surprised at the comments in this video. The general consensus is the model 3 is more direct with the steering and feels more nimble, but the Seal beats the model 3 (even the new Highland model) hands down in ride quality. I just watched a NZ review (Ecotricity NZ) of the Seal Performance and he gave it a huge thumbs up in the handling department. Also Electrifying (UK) had both reviewers choosing the Seal (overall) over the model 3, despite it being more expensive in the European market. I test drove the Seal Premium 2 days ago and was absolutely sold on it over the model 3. I drive a BMW 530d at work and the Seal Premium at less than half its price, is as good or better. BYD are kicking goals...

[@Jimmy-hf8fz]

He also criticised the handling of the Dolphin but YS Khong, 5 times Malaysian rally champ took one up to Genting. It's a very windy road but he went 10/10ths and at the end said how impressed with the handling he was.

[@TB-up4xi]

@@Jimmy-hf8fz Impressed for a Dolphin - not impressed overall.

[@TB-up4xi]

Some, Some overseas reviewers like the softer suspension of the Seal not all - many of the reviews never get out of the urban setting as well, of all the reviews I have seen the verdicts are split slightly in favour of the Tesla overall. The issue with most car reviews is they spend a few hours with the car and don't really give any sense for what living with the car is like long term - that's why I try to seek out 12 month reviews. I have driven both in Australia - the Seal is a good effort but it's noticeably generations behind Tesla in the way things are implemented - I could see instantly the things that just weren't right / up to standard.

[@declanpower2924]

@TB-up4xi Interested in what you think has been implemented poorly. Reviewers have been critical of the Seal's overreactve driver safety systems. Hopefully this can be tamed with a software update. However, most reviewers consider the interior quality and design better than the Tesla. I really dislike the minimalist Tesla interior of the Tesla, the lack of a driver screen and absence of Android auto is just silly. Overall quality is just not as good. Tesla does have a bit better driver engagement and handling but on Australia's rubbish country roads I would happily lose a bit of engagement for better ride as in the Seal. I will be driving one on Saturday so I hope to get a better idea of what it is like but I love the interior.

[@MHWibi]

@@TB-up4xi Hi mate, I watched a review from UK saying that the driver can feel a quite annoying small continuous vibration (not smooth) on the steering wheel column when passing a quite rough surface road, is it really the case ? please kindly share your experience on that matter, I am planning to buy BYD Seal but still doubt because of this issue

[@ItsJonesy777]

I’ve had my Seal Performance for 2wks now and I will say I agree that ELKA and ISLI are a must to turn off before each drive. What I would disagree with is your comments on pushing it to its limits and it struggling. Obviously its not as nimble as its competitors at 200kgs lighter but I’ve taken it on several twisty mountains around Brisbane and the car just feels planted thanks to its cell-to-body technology and it hasn’t felt like letting go at any point. FSD does its job perfectly well and soaks up bumps where it’s needed and has that firmness when it’s not. As someone who was between this and a Model 3 Highland for so long, it took me all of 10mins in the Tesla to know the Seal was the right choice.

[@stevenleonards4843]

Did you drive the premium before choosing the performance.. what did you think of the ride?

[@ItsJonesy777]

@@stevenleonards4843I’ve since driven the Premium but only after already owning the Performance and I must say, the extra was worth every cent. Suspension is much softer in the Premium (a benefit to some), that instant crazy power has seen its fair use in the real world while not driving dangerously but I will admit the Premium is lighter and being RWD only is a great bit of fun to put through a corner but the Performance has a more reassuring feel to it…..I know, those opposite to this review but certainly more inline with the glowing UK and EU reviews. Honestly, the Premium is probably more than enough for 90% of people and had I just bought that and never drove a Performance I wouldn’t regret my purchase.

[@MIA-ow2js]

Do these have to be manually turned off every time you drive? Seems a bit of a headache. Surely there will be a software update to remedy this?

[@ItsJonesy777]

@@MIA-ow2js unfortunately, yes. It is annoying so hopefully an OTA update comes soon that either dials back the ELKA (which some markets have already received) or the ability to turn off some settings permanently although this may affect the cars ANCAP rating.

[@MIA-ow2js]

@@ItsJonesy777 yeah hopefully. I mean I'm all for extra safety measures in new cars but having to unset certain things every time you drive would become annoying very quickly. I haven't tested the car yet but it's on my list and certainly looks an interesting option. Thanks for the response and good luck with your new car. 👍

[@VidServ-o5o]

I was tempted by the Tesla however Tesla does not have V2L (Vehicle to Load) -nor indicator storks- V2L is a must have if the power grid goes down. Basically the BYD can become a massive battery (around 6 x larger than a power wall) that can run your home if you stick to the 3KW limit. If you have an off grid system already then you could use the BYD to charge your house batteries for long periods of bad weather that cut solar production.

[@justicebroker2271]

Blinker stalks, this car has it all 🤣.

[@boredinvitation]

What is the colour of this one you reviewed thanks mate

[@petervaughan9826]

We just need driver profiles with remembered settings. In our MG4 the lane keep assist is like an angry night nurse with a baseball bat...

[@TheMrFishnDucks]

they wont do that it leaves them to being sued in case something happens.

[@raybrown4155]

The EV feckers just don't know when to STOP. I feel safer at my own ability to check lanes etc. In reality, all these unproven bullshit features could increase the distance of an EV if scaled back. I don't need beeping shit and aggressive AI control. I WANT control. Turn off or customised warnings at best.

[@teslabot6517]

Bought it -❤ it.(premium) Soooooooooooooo Goooood

[@stevenleonards4843]

Did you drive the highland before buying the premium?

[@teslabot6517]

@@stevenleonards4843 I had it on order for a couple of months and then cancelled it due to the value and quality of the premium.

[@RandomStuff-hj1zo]

Is it good enough to not have to buy the performance ? I am tossing between the two. Not tried the performance yet and am worried the premium will not be as fun!

[@stevenleonards4843]

@RandomStuff-hj1zo couple of reviewers think the premium is actually more nimble and has enough power for real world urban use

[@teslabot6517]

@@stevenleonards4843 apart from the quite frightening jerkimg of the wheel by the emergency lane keep ( not a joke ) the car is quick, efficient, smooth quiet and has a lux interior- for the $. I love the big battery/ 2 wheel drive premium Seal. I cancelled my Highland order to buy this. Happy I did.

[@YSA920]

A short test drive of the Premium Seal @ BYD Bentleigh showed it to be very quiet even with the windows down. In an urban setting the 230kW seemed quite fast, it piles on speed. Not quite as quick as an MG4 XPower but a lot more than say a BYD ATTO 3 that feels on the slow side until it reaches 30km/hr. Very much chalk and cheese finish wise between an ATTO 3 with its lairy interior and the quiet, classy Seal which feels more like a C Class Benz in side but with a Golf Mk 8 stubby gear shift. Keen to test drive a Performance, for my mainly urban driving not sure if i need a performance but would be good to get a feel of it from the seat of my pants. Not really a Tesla fan. My brother has a new Y. Don't like everything being on the central screen, no HUD, no drivers instrument panel. And has some loony like Andre Citroen come up with getting rid of the indicators stalks. Very Citroen-like this, change for complications sake Have a Seal Premium on order

[@jihooncha-vs4om]

I'm scared of handing over my information to China.

[@furikuri23]

@@jihooncha-vs4om Tesla's are made in China

[@Clove_Parma]

@@jihooncha-vs4omyou think the CCP can’t access the data of non-Chinese cars? Only difference is other brands sell or leak info to China, while these probably give it for free lol

[@BharatSuperPower3020]

​@@jihooncha-vs4omYou think too highly of yourself. Nobody is interested in your poxy life. 😂

[@ThomasPax]

You can use the buttons on the steering wheel to control the aircon etc... So there are control buttons 😊

[@therightcar]

True you can. If you can figure them out. Or just use the voice control!

[@Audios81]

Hands down. The BEST video on the Seal Performance! We have a Shark Grey Seal Performance on order. Can’t wait to pick it up. Your review was engaging, thorough and entertaining! Thanks for making our choice all the much easier! Cheers from Sydney

[@therightcar]

Awesome! Thank you! Really love this kind of feedback.

[@philipbatty]

Buttons are almost always much better than scrolling through a screen

[@boonchewchan8245]

Tesla designed by people who grow up playing angry bird and candy crush, that is why.

[@kenkan1963]

The truth is, Tesla eliminates all the physical buttons to cut cost, and use the word minimalist to remove the cheap feeling.

[@therealjeffg]

Great review, thanks Matt. Can you review the entry level model? Also would you buy the base tesla model 3 or the mid spec Byd seal?

[@colvilletitus9408]

I think over time ,owners would get accustomed to the driving safety modes. Love it.

[@therightcar]

Maybe. Like most cars these days - you will submit!

[@Peter-vn8ue]

Most of the safety systems have an option to turn off the audio warning, and any setting preferences that you change remain set no matter if you turn off the vehicle. The LKA has options, I have mine set in the Atto 3, so it vibrates the steering wheel and does a slight correction and no audio sound is turned on. The speed warning just flashes on the screen if you exceed the speed limit, again, I have the audio warning sound turned off. The infotainment screen size is actually 15.6 inches. The whole BYD company philosophy is to make their vehicles easier for owners who are transitioning away from an ice vehicle and for those owners who appreciate familiarity, they dont see OPD and FSD as a main priority but instead focusing on affordability. If OPD and FSD are a deal breaker, then you will buy a different brand and pay a higher price for this technology. 11kw charging at home is only achievable if your house has 3 phase power, if its single phase only, like most homes, 7kw home charging will be your limit. No matter which Seal variant you buy, the savings over the Tesla model 3 or any other brand of a similar spec'd and size electric vehicle will more than cover the servicing cost for the BYD Seal over the next 6 years of ownership.

[@blueosaka2553]

..head up display... you got me

[@therightcar]

Ha!

[@dymehta]

Loved the george costanza referencee 😂😂😂

[@mijbril8330]

First video of yours I've seen, you certainly generate some interesting random comments..... Looking forward to taking ownership of a Performance shortly, it'll be a few firsts in quite a while for me; first car with 4 doors in 30 years (last was an XD Falcon) first with airbags (ever), first new car in 27 years (last was a Hyundai Excel), first AWD in 23 years (last was a Celica GT4), first with back seats since the Celica as well (it's generous to call them back seats). Currently have a (barely original) 1990 MR2 & (very original) 69 Corvette, so the Seal will be very interesting to drive. Looked at a couple of other options, the Polestar was above the LCT level when adding the extras (so the leasing was not as viable), the Tesla is so minimalist in design it barely felt like a car, no drivers dash or HUD, test drove both the Performance & Premium, both are great cars for the money being asked.

[@therightcar]

Thanks for adding an interesting random comment 😅

[@teslabot6517]

Premium is plenty enough-5.8 seconds to 100kms. I am in Australia and our speed limit is 100kmph. I couldn't justify the extra $10k for the performance model with less range

[@Clove_Parma]

The premium is the clear value choice given our driving distances, especially on the 110KM/H zones

[@CThienV]

any progress the annoyances around the driver aids?

[@therightcar]

They’re still there and you still need to turn them off if you don’t like them.

[@CThienV]

@@therightcar hmmm. My typical day consists of 6-9 small short and medium trips. I've been driving the same analog car for the past 12 years so toggling stuff off for every trip will dull the shine of ownership, I fear

[@candlelarbra5212]

No brainer at that price

[@samereid6364]

I’ve watched many many reviews about the seal, I went to the show room in Paris to check it and my opinion we can’t compare it to Tesla. That’s on another level, it’s closer to German brands…

[@therightcar]

Okay!

[@Kangaroo_Caught]

I personally dislike sunroofs generally and I worry about them in a rollover situation. In relation to the "safety assistance" features, does ANCAP require that these default to enabled each time you start the vehicle? If they do, and it seems that this is a common criticism I see across all current cars, I would prefer to go for a lower score. But then, I am getting on and prefer to control things myself.

[@therightcar]

It would be very, VERY difficult to roll a 2.2-tonne electric car with so much battery mass down low in the frame. I'd say nearly impossible, without highly irresponsible speed involved. So don't stress about glass roofs. Yes, ANCAP requires these systems to default on. It's a joke!!

[@mindfreeze0838]

I find it funny that the model 3 doesnt have top tethers yet it has a 5 star rating (EuroNcap gave the new Kona 4 stars for something similar). Regardless the Seal is a no brainer for a proper EV sedan without the eccentricities of the Tesla and the cost of the Polestar.

[@therightcar]

Thanks mate. Yep, well summed up!

[@deserialized]

Question about suspension. So if I were to purchase the AWD - would you recommend to replace the suspension to stiffen it? Is it the suspension in back, front or both?

[@Clove_Parma]

Just get the premium which has a better ride than the Performance

[@deserialized]

@@Clove_Parma life is to short for not buying the performance model..

[@Grudlin74]

Do you think a simple upgrade would be sport tyres

[@soulfate2]

Looks cool… would the seats fade over time because of sun roof? Or is that ok

[@therightcar]

They may fade, but it'll take a decade surely. I don't possess a good enough crystal ball!

[@DashcamsTasmania]

The glass is impregnated with silver. It certainly isn't bright sunlight coming straight in the cabin through the glass. It also reflects a lot of heat. Had me Seal Performance over 6 months now and not once have I found the glass roof annoying.

[@maverickau80]

The odd brake feel comes down to how BYD blends the regenerative braking into the brake pedal - it's hard to judge when the purely regenerative braking ends and the physical braking begins which makes it feel odd. They haven't got it quite as smooth as Audi do with their brake blending. That pitter-patteryness you felt is a result of the FSD on the performance model I would bet, I've heard that it feels a bit unsettled compared to the RWD models from overseas reviews. Owning the premium now but having test drove the performance as well I genuinely think the RWD models are the better handling and more comfy rides, and several reviews comparing across the range seem to agree with that. I absolutely disagree with your comments on it feeling unconfident - at least as far as the RWD Premium goes, I didn't get a chance to push the Performance - on more twisty roads when pushing it. I live in rural NSW around a lot of technical and twisty (not to mention crap quality) roads and it feels every bit as confidence inspiring and dynamic as more expensive performance cars I've driven and owned around here (HSV, FPV, BMW, Audi). I have a lot more tolerance for intrusive ADAS systems owning another Chinese car with fairly intrusive systems, so the Seal's ADAS feels pretty okay to me. It's honestly better than a number of other cars ADAS systems I've tried, but it's also worse than a lot too. I think it's mostly down to calibration and firmware for local conditions, rather than the actual system itself. If BYD give a shit about our market, they'll eventually iron a lot of that out with local tuning and OTA updates as they're starting to do in several markets on their vehicles - fingers crossed.

[@t8polestarcyan22]

It's no doubt that the BYD Seal is also one of a desirable kind of model to buy.

[@mattmelvin6461]

Matt, What colour is this test car?

[@johnsheh]

Atlantic grey

[@bondirimski]

Good review! Matt with a second camera over your shoulder you could show, rather than just narrate, some the OTT safety 'bings n bongs'. I'd be interested in the Seal but if the warning vocalisations were too much (or need turning off every time) it'd be a no.

[@Bman1878]

In the thumbnail you are wearing a Bunnies cap. Great choice 👌 👍

[@therightcar]

Ha! I've lost a subscriber or two over that :D

[@Bman1878]

​@@therightcarwell you just gained one mate

[@bobimpey5620]

Does this car tick all the boxes?

[@1969cmp]

Buttons and stalks are good and part of the reason why, for me, Tesla doesn't make the short list should I choose to go to EV.

[@therightcar]

I hear you!

[@rodsevler]

When you reviewed Tesla M3H you didn’t mention that you prefer bottoms. Also you forgot to mention the back seat space is smaller in Tesla M3 as you mentioned in your previous M3 review. Also, you didn’t address the exterior design of seal as you did in your Tesla M3 review. The exterior design of seal is much better than Tesla. The door handles of the Tesla look very cheap. The seats of M3 look very cheap. The panoramic sunroof of Seal is better than M3. You can hear more noise in M3 while driving. I agree about the driving assistance but BYD better than Tesla in a lot of aspects. For that price and specs is just no brainer. I general not a good review. 👎

[@global_southerner]

Best comment 👍

[@maxangie2]

?????

[@Maggieismydog]

How have these held up? Looks like a lot of BYD bashing on other channels from China at the moment. We are looking for the best bang for buck EV around this money.

[@Asian_bogan]

I’m leaning towards premium, still waiting for test drive to be available in Victoria 🤷🏿‍♀️

[@AJ-no4kw]

It is available now, I test drove one last week

[@Asian_bogan]

@@AJ-no4kw thanks! I rely on their website which is only atto & dolphin available for test drive

[@Clove_Parma]

It’s available at least in chadstone, Brighton and Dandenong. Give the local team a call to book one in though as they each only have one demo car

[@sb-oc7js]

Wow you might as well have reviewed the model 3, you mentioned it more than the BYD seal🎉🎉

[@therightcar]

No I didn’t. That’s silly. I have reviewed the Model 3 and it’s the most pertinent context point as it’s also new (just revised) and at around the same money, and it’s the most popular electric sedan here….

[@kerrwhatley4682]

I agree with most of the comments- test drove the new Tesla and seats were horrible/no indicator stalks are a joke and a pointless screen in the back that is sighted too low for comfortable use. Every other review praises the BYD ride and comfort. Tesla wouldn’t get my vote over Ioniq 6 or Seal

[@therightcar]

The ride isn't terrible, but the composure of the suspension during direction changes and in demanding driving isn't great.

[@petap9977]

I think I’ll go with BYD just need to test drive . Hated OPD that Tesla has

[@mponsie]

The remarks about struggling when pushed is not something I recognize. I have the Excellence AWD with 539 HP and I really push the car to it's limits and it doesn't struggle one bit. Although I am not Max Verstappen, I do push this car to it's limits. The roadsign recognition needs improvements in the Netherlands. That's one of the functions I switch off as soon as I start the car.

[@MHWibi]

hi mate, I watched a review from UK saying that the driver can feel a quite annoying vibration (not smooth) on the steering wheel column when passing a quite rough surface road, is it really the case ? please kindly share your experience on that matter, I am planning to buy BYD Seal but still doubt because of this issue

[@francisdebriey3609]

I'm happy to see the competition rising... personally, I don't like the design of Tesla's. I bought the ioniq5, and it's the best car I have ever owned. But I love what BYD does as well !

[@garthk506]

Good review Matt. I dont use auto on the A/C either. I like to set it how it suits me and my passengers at the time. Do most people use Auto? Might be an (un)interesting poll. 😀

[@Dreamer10888]

I never use auto… it would always sound loud if u make the temp low

[@declanpower2924]

I always use auto in my cars, including in my older classic Jag. Rarely, I will override the fan speed but not temp. I don't want it colder than the 22 degrees I set. Mind you, the car Sc I have bought with climate control have tended to have effective systems.

[@Clove_Parma]

You can adjust the fan speed with voice controls, no need to use the screen

[@OTPulse]

If the passengers don't like my AC settings they can always walk😅

[@tommyjakobsen5504]

i believe that Xpeng is ahead of BYD seal in activ self driving, but most people don't use that, most do not even want self driving feature.. I have a big Issue in my own MG4 that assistent system is very useless. but hope for byd customer that is better in the Seal. but the seal is also a much more expensive car than my MG4. but don´t forget they are "NEW" cars, so if you compaire tesla model 3 first version, the system in that was also horrible, and that is about 7-8 years ahead in development now, and still not good enougth for full driving.

[@Clove_Parma]

XPeng is massively in debt and losing money on every car they make. I hope I’m wrong but wouldn’t be shocked if they didn’t exist in 10 years unless they cut costs significantly

[@Phil.llllll]

Sharks have gills, dolphins don't 😂 Another good review otherwise!

[@lks3537]

Its funny, how people say "just turn off" the system safety feature of the BYD seal and that's that. But people keep on complaining about the autopilot or FSD on the Tesla. Hey, no one forces you to use the autopilot or buy the FSD. Hey, just "turn it off", or simply don't use it.

[@therightcar]

Okay 👌

[@elduderino7767]

it's because byd software is rubbish and it's driver assists are never going to be up to standard let alone rival the likes of tesla who, lets be honest, is in a class of it's own when it comes to software with their AI approach and years of data around the globe their FSD, when released, will be a game changer, can see 2nd hand teslas being snapped up when it happens

[@N-SOJU]

Would love to test drive this and see though am still a petrol head

[@therightcar]

BYD is running test drives!

[@azzanz]

I test drove the performance and was scary fast off mark. My missus would have killed herself if she ever accidentally sneezed. Picking up Black Premium in couple of days...

[@lungaswazi9194]

Impressive, well-rounded review

[@therightcar]

Thanks!

[@MHWibi]

hi matt great review, I watched a review from UK saying that the driver can feel a quite annoying vibration (not smooth) on the steering wheel column when passing a quite rough surface road, is it really the case ? please kindly share your experience on that matter, I am planning to buy BYD Seal but still doubt because of this issue

[@therightcar]

Hi mate. I can’t recall noticing that. There were other things that stood out more, if it was the case.

[@MHWibi]

@@therightcar thank you so much for your thoughts, really appreciate

[@MHWibi]

@@therightcar thank you so much for your thoughts, really appreciate

[@TB-up4xi]

14:25 Actually you can get the same outright speed from an MG4 X-Power for $7,000 less - it only has 320kw v 390kw but it's much lighter.

[@Clove_Parma]

The MG4 is a size class smaller and significantly less luxurious than this car. It’s a much more budget car in everything other than straight line acceleration

[@bauboni]

299$ every 12 months, more expensive than an ICE Corolla, and some people still like to believe that EVs have no maintenance cost

[@deganellis]

Great review, thanks Matt. Will be interesting to see how the Seal is received in Australia. I think it's a great effort from BYD, but I think a few, including me, will balk at the rather inconsistent warranty on offer for a brand that has been making cars for a while in China, but unproven here. Hopefully those that do take a dip in the Ocean (series) don't get caught out by said warranty complexities down the track. Will be interested to see the wheels comparo. When is it out?

[@stevenleonards4843]

What do you mean by inconsistent warranty. It says 8 years for battery

[@deganellis]

@@stevenleonards4843 yep but as Matt says in the video, other components of the car are not covered for the full 6 years. E.g. the infotainment may only be covered for 3 years, suspension components for 2 years etc, so quite different to a typical new car 'bumper to bumper' warranty.

[@gtpete6363]

I've driven both this and the model y back to back and it's is too busy in the cabin and doesn't have the acceleration like the model Y.

[@therightcar]

Fair point!

[@JoshuaMcTackett]

My 2022/23 Tesla M3 absolutely has a top tether point for baby seats. I have it clipped to mine right now. Is this something they deleted on the refresh? I've said it before and I'll keep saying it. BYD is killing it with the features they include and the build, but the user experience is way behind Tesla. In my BYD I have to adjust the seat every time wifey has driven it or I can't fit in the car. In my Tesla, I don't need a key, a start button or to fight the seats. It's always back, and snugs us into place once we're seated, and remembers how each person likes the car to be set up. It's also puzzling with most BYD cars why they persist with a FWD drivetrain instead of RWD. At least this car has that! The BYD I have has a proper sunroof that opens, and a sunshade that closes with a button. Things Tesla doesn't get. Everything Tesla puts in though, is implemented for the most ease possible with the software. I would REALLY like to see BYD making some driver profiles, phone keys, driver personalisation, and a complete overhall of their UI soon. There's no reason not to.

[@azzanz]

Most of the things you have noted can and hopefully will be fixed in software over air updates. Not as easy tp add an extra screen, HUD, Apple and Android support, or Indicator wiper handles 😅

[@TB-up4xi]

@@azzanz The fact is that BYD driver convenience / usability through the software is not 1 but many generations behind Tesla. I can't see BYD ever having interactive route planning for example that uses AI to calculate the optimum charger you should go to and for how long by analysing all of the other traffic heading to chargers along your route, when they will get there and how long they will charge for - this is really helpful and practical stuff that no one but Tesla can do at this time.

[@TheMrFishnDucks]

Hopefully they bring out an Economy with smaller battery, and physical HVAC controls. Very nice video. Keep up the good work.

[@Clove_Parma]

They already have… the 61kW dynamic model. If you want smaller battery than that you may as well go for the Dolphin or Atto

[@mogensen84]

AC charging is 11kW in the EU as standard 🤷‍♂ But then again, you only get HUD with the AWD version (excellence) and not with the RWD version (design).

[@therightcar]

International spec variations are so weird. I imagine the 7kW vs 11kW thing is just down to cost.

[@TB-up4xi]

The Tesla software is many generations ahead not just one. A good example is when you are on a road trip the software will gather all the information from all the other Teslas driving near your route, what charging stations they have planned, when they will get to each one, how long they will stay and calculates the absolute optimum strategy for you on your trip in terms of which charger to go to and how long to charge - it does this constantly as circumstances change (say someone new enters the journey calc) and continually optimises. BYD are miles away from this sort of practical convenience in their software.

[@jimmyyang901]

many generations ahead? , what else beside what you said ?, not everyone take a long trip everyday

[@CLS1507]

All that just ride a barebone, impractical brick of a car. Do you even really believe in yourself that such a gimmick is more important than what the BYD will give you in terms of usability like the gear stick, the HUD, physical buttons, physical wiper and turn signal levers, V2L, etc.?

[@tdubs21]

yet, they can't put car play and Android

[@yggdrasil9039]

20:32 This is why I'm waiting for the car companies to sort out the annoying driver alert systems before I buy. It's in ICE as well, but particularly prevalent in EVs. The first two things to look for in any technology is 'how easy is it to turn off?' and 'how easy is it to permanently turn off?'

[@TB-up4xi]

Tesla allows you to customise all the alerts and features - it even has "Joe-Mode" for when you still want to keep some on but the volume is less than 1/2 normal. You set them once and once only - it saves your settings to your driver profile, you can have 1/2 a dozen family members drive the car and it instantly sets everything to that persons preferences immediately as they unlock the car.

[@yggdrasil9039]

@@TB-up4xi That's cool. Other brands should follow suit

[@theroadrunner8300]

I would buy thee Dynamic.For the price range and sort of similar to Tesla

[@VikMTB]

Matt, you need to provide further commentary at the end - youve driven its competitors, which would you buy?

[@therightcar]

Thanks mate, appreciate the feedback. I'd test drive a cheaper Seal before buying any other EV.

[@351tgv]

​@@therightcar Seal Dynamic (is that right?) RWD single speed transfer case 2.145kg kerb weight 150kW (peak) and 310Nm (instant). Other than being super energy efficient (not sure if my numbers are correct however 63kWh is appox 7L of actual petrol) so 450km range in terms of petrol use is something like 64km per 1L.

[@BYD_Telsa]

Well, are you saying that the polestar and Hyundai drive better than the Seal. I can understand you preferring the Tesla but not the others. You really slammed the Seals driving performance. I don’t agree with you, but hey, you are a professional. Polestar 2 and Hyundai really?

[@kenkan1963]

The Tesla M3H is a stripped down low cost version of its older predecessor. The main improvement of Tesla M3H are the riding quality and various rattling noises it generates due to its weak chassis strength that every driver complains about after a week of normal driving, the passengers and drivers actual act as shock absorbers as the Tesla lacks the quality of filtering the vibration cause by road bumps and its poor and stiff suspension.

[@f.t.w1066]

Great video well explained, for me Motorhead till tha end.👍👍👍☠️

[@rubyred8845]

A good looking electric car.

[@davidpearn5925]

Damning with faint praise would be how I would describe this assessment.

[@johncleaver4245]

Why have we gone back to “ before on road costs” pricing? Does this suggest we have the ability to negotiate the “driveway price” as we did pre Covid? I don’t know about anyone else, but the best we’re getting at the moment is “I’ll throw in a set of floor mats”…bring on 2024 and a end to car dealerships holding all the cards.

[@therightcar]

It’s because of differing state incentives and considerations, so list pricing / MSRP / before on-roads is a simpler way for some brands to get their pricing right for the national market.

[@sergiom.a1598]

Saludos al canal bajo mi punto de vista como usuario la función eco de byd seal debería introducir otra función eco plus que desconecte un motor para asi hacerlo más eficiente en casos que estemos muy justo de autonomía o porque no necesitemos la tracción integral por ciudad alargando mucho más la autonomia y la frenada regenerativa a un solo pedal así sería más eficiente para conseguir más autonomia con un simple software

[@therightcar]

Estoy de acuerdo contigo en lo del frenado regenerativo. ¡No está tan centrado en la conservación de energía como los vehículos eléctricos rivales!

[@amrindersingh3949]

I THINK YOU NEED FEW DAYS TO USED TO WEIGHT AND THAN YOU CAN DRIVE IN MORE SPORTY WAY AND THAN IT WILL BE MORE FUN TO DRIVE AND I FOUND THE SUSPENSION OF THE SEAL FEELS WAY MORE PREMIUM THAN TESLA

[@gregturner_awod]

An interesting alternative to a Tesla, attractively designed and appears well designed. Like the new Tesla which is missing stalks, the BYD has idiosyncrasies, neither the boot nor the Frunk match Tesla’s, seating looks great, screens look great, but the software? Heads up display great. Power, range, etc, all good. As a Tesla convert I don’t like the proliferation of buttons, USB ‘ancient A’ as well as ‘C’. Okay…. Voice control, Tesla’s doesn’t need “Hey” in front of everything like BYD does. Back seat okay, so’s Tesla’s. Leather? Nice, but Tesla’s ‘vegan’ seats so easy to keep clean, and proven very very durable. Charging, sounds okay on BYD, a bit slower though and Tesla Superchargers are just great and though available for other EV’s at an increasing number of sites are cheaper to use for Tesla owners. The BYD AWD version sounds great, but what a pain having to turn noisy and/or dysfunctional safety stuff off before you drive! Do I want outright speed? My Tesla gives me that but I so rarely use it unless I’m about to be rammed. The BYD driving dynamics don’t sound wonderful, weird, but I think the Tesla’s fun to drive and has great tyres. I think it comes down to whether you really want a BYD, or whether you really want a Tesla. So BYD needs servicing? Hmmm, no set service intervals on my Tesla. BYD make great cars, and this was an excellent and exceptionally balanced review of the Seal, Matt, thank you. It’s great to have choices.

[@OneD0llarHitman]

Sharks have gills but dolphins don't 👍

[@therightcar]

What about Seals? 😜

[@elduderino7767]

or you could just say mammals have lungs some really stupid decisions with the seal, the NFC marking infuriate me way more than it should, i think it's pure idiocy, as an owner you have to be reminded of that crap countless times every single time you use the car

[@AC-yg9zf]

Your review of the BYD Seal is in total contradiction to what almost all other Journalist say about it. They all rate this car far better than the Tesla Model 3.

[@therightcar]

I don’t care what other people think. I’m telling you what I think.

[@starpawsy]

JOhn Cadogen thought it was crap. He is well respected.

[@kimwiencken2492]

I have tried both cars in Europe: BYD Seal in an AWD version as well as a Tesla 3 Long Range Highland. Even if the Seal comes with a lot of quality it still feels like a version 1 and I will definitely recommend to wait for a version 2, for the following 4 reasons: 1) In the Tesla you get a much more firm and direct driving experience. You feel it especially while steering and while accelerating. 2) Car efficiency measured as kW to milage is lower in the Seal, probably because of much higher weight (´+ 300 kilo) and poor brake regen. 3) In the Seal the Software UI as well as the functionality feel like a generation or two older. Old school menues, different menues to control driving set-up, lot of scrolling up and down etc. Besides that parts of the SW didn't really work while I tested the car a week ago - especially the parts where assisted driving is involved. 4) DC charging is quite slower in the Seal (150 kW) than the Tesla (250 kW) which will leave you wating a lot at the charging stations. An overall conclusion is that the BYD Seal feels a bit like old school car compared to the Tesla.

[@dewfend]

BYD SEAL didn’t sell well in China and it was forced to lower the entry level price from 23K GBP to 17K GBP, now the sales is much better. people who is not familiar with China car market really has no idea about the intensity of competition in China now. 2024 will be tougher for everyone. Speaking of Legacy auto makers, Korean and French brands are gone. Japanese brands are disappearing. Ford management told their new China CEO to consider China market as gym, GM is struggling with Wuling, only German brands are still out there, trembling.

[@waynehobbs5175]

Great review thanks Matt. Disappointing that cargo is smaller than Tesla 3 despite being a physically larger car. No details of towing ability? If they had built this as a hatch it would be so much more desirable because the 400l boot is so inaccessible through that letterbox aperture. The Atto 3 has more boot space and better access for both boot and passengers despite being 355mm shorter. Three box sedans really are a downgrade in space utilisation and access compared to SUVs. This is why the Tesla Model Y outsells the three box model 3 in spades. BYD needs to bring in the Song L as a competitor to Tesla's best selling car.

[@therightcar]

I don't believe these vehicles are rated to tow anything. Atto 3 is.

[@Clove_Parma]

It’s certified to 1500kg braked towing. The car being larger is focused on the larger cabin, different priorities. I would be happy if the boot were the same size but a lift back. Reckon BYD would be better off bringing the sea lion 07 than the song L down under

[@GlowingTube]

Punitive insurance costs with EVs plus the high purchase prices may render this and other EVs non starters for many.

[@Jimmy-hf8fz]

What punitive insurance costs? RACQ is the same price for EV or ICE.

[@GlowingTube]

My brother in law paid $1,800 on a model 3 last year, this year it’s over $3,000.

[@adorolivar1340]

100%! EV insurance premium is more expensive than ICE cars

[@elduderino7767]

i live in aussie lebanon, basically, and insurance is 6k for a LR if i pop in an address on the central coast it's 1 - 1.5k, not cheaper.. but total, for comprehensive from a top tier company, ie not crappy barebones will rinse you when it matter insurance if you live in a place with a lot of claims (scammers) then you'll get the scammer tax as for price jacking that is common because most clowns just pay it, you need to change companies and you'll get a similar deal to the first one

[@Pascual123]

Chinese Rolex??

[@liuyangyang]

The price of seal dropped a lot in China.

[@davidpearn5925]

LFP for me……. I like sleeping soundly at night . Why do we always get the most brutally accelerating version always ?. The Premium is the sensible choice most fit for purpose.

[@M4rt_FX]

From 2010 to June 2023, EV FireSafe recorded 393 verified passenger EV battery fires across the world, of which only four were in Australia. One was linked to arson. There are over 100,000 EVs on Australian roads. Don't be gullible.

[@davidpearn5925]

@@M4rt_FX gullible?. Less exotic, safer and longer life plus full every morning. At the moment LFP is what manufacturers are prioritising…….and consumers are wanting.

[@M4rt_FX]

@@davidpearn5925 In reference to "I like sleeping soundly at night", and you know it was.

[@sun-man]

You've got a good face for radio

[@MRSTEEL15]

It looks nicer but thats about it

[@Atluntadhimanathoni.trolls]

I prefer nio over byd

[@therightcar]

Sadly we don’t have Nio yet… yeeeetttt.

[@kenkan1963]

BYD is weak in the area of autonomous driving and is among the third tier in China's standard whereas as the Tesla lies in the second tier. The best class of cars that dictates the ev world is equipped with Huawei autonomous driving system that use lidar as the standard apparatus that redefines the capability of autonomous driving. Avatr 12 is the best example that delivers this capability. Sadly, it is not yet available to any countries except China.

[@andrewk3507]

Dolphins are mammals just like seals so definitely do not have gills. Sharks and fishes have gills.

[@therightcar]

George Costanza over here

[@sneo7470]

In Singapore, BYD Seal Premium is more expensive than Tesla Model 3 Highland. Due to quality issue, I sold my BYD ATTO 3 and bought Tesla Model 3 Highland. My family members are very happy with the Tesla Model 3 Highland. Thanks for the competition from BYD, now I can afford to buy Tesla EV!👍👏💪🇸🇬

[@nowah65]

Ok so u hate this car orr

[@Vikingdescendent]

1:22 Animal skin is a deal breaker for many in 2024!

[@ngochuybk]

They sold 6393 BYD Seal in 2024. 6393 people will regret because they cannot sell these cars because no one wants to buy a 2nd hand Chinese EVs lol

[@mrnicktoyou]

Driving a car at the limit on a public road is dangerous and pointless. I have been hearing about this metric of "handling at the limit" for decades, and while interesting, it's completely irrelevant for a car that will be driven daily.

[@therightcar]

Hahaha okay, you clearly aren’t a car enthusiast.

[@mrnicktoyou]

@@therightcar I am a car enthusiast but I never drive at the limit on the road. I'm not 19 years old anymore.

[@doctordefault8441]

Dolphins do not have gills

[@CampfireCrackle]

"let me know in the comments"... Where comments go to die.

[@therightcar]

Okay

[@panxe1]

really is it B.Y.D not BYD. So is Kia now K.I.A??😂

[@therightcar]

Well BYD stood for Build Your Dreams.

[@Diffusion8]

Seal

[@therightcar]

Review. Is that the game we’re playing?

[@Diffusion8]

@@therightcar Haha! Na! I would pick the Seal over it's current rivals...

[@buncha5651]

Matt you must be on blackout Bowen,s promo team a lot of EV reviews. A tyre repair kit are they taking the pi*s out of their customers. And what's the point of a huge glass roof with no cover sounds like a sauna to me.😊

[@Clove_Parma]

1) tyre repair kit is an optional PAID accessory with Tesla 2) there’s a roof cover included free with every car BUT it isn’t needed as the glass is silver plated and reflects the radiant heat. I test drove it on a 36c day in the sun and there was no noticeable radiant heat. Worth doing your research and or test driving before making uninformed assumptions

[@enigmaticloremaster1700]

Absolute madness, does nothing to help the environment. We can hardly run the air-conditioning systems on a hot summer day. How will the grid cope when everyone has an electric car? I would rather own a 2 litre ICE car of any description because I can drive it 600km and takes 5 mins to refill. Imagine Christmas holiday time and everyone has an EV. How long will you be waiting before you even get to a charger let alone charging it. The battery technology is no where near safe with many electric cars spontaneously combusting on a daily basis nearly. BYD being the most common to Ingnite. I wouldn't trust a Chinese EV, they will be tracking your every move and spying on you. These cars have sterilized driving and taken the fun out of it. And all because some rich man coned everyone to beleive it is the way to go. The richest man it the world who does nothing to help starving people says it all as far as I am concerned.

[@fraserwallace918]

Almost everything you have written here is rubbish. I have a Tesla m3 and haven't noticed a difference in insurance. Statistics prove that an ice vehicle is 10p times more likely to catch fire. My car is the cheapest Tesla available but it is definitely more fun to drive in everyday use than ice vehicles and I have had a few skyline gt's, 200sx, GTI. In normal use I spend about 5 seconds plugging in when I get home and when I leave so you could say 0 time refuelling and I never have to waste time going to a servo. On a trip from Canberra to Melbourne for example I would have to make 3 stops ranging from 15 minutes to 30 minutes which is less time than I would take to eat. I admit that peak holiday times could be more difficult but that his improved greatly over the past year and will continue to do so.

[@enigmaticloremaster1700]

@@fraserwallace918 I can't see these cars doing anything to save the environment , when they create the same amount of pollution as driving a small diesel car, they are charged off the grid and will be for a long time, so how is that any greener? They are sterile pieces of Junk that remove the joy of driving in my view. I am waiting for someone to hack them also, if it is connected to the internet of shit , it will be hacked at some stage. Standard issue nowadays.

[@mohiuddinahmad1792]

❤❤

[@staceywebster7765]

Boom fire run

[@ericshum8796]

tesla may cry

[@therightcar]

I don’t think Tesla cries over much.

[@amrindersingh3949]

TESLA MODEL 3 RWD VS SEAL PREMIUM? I have TO USE FOR UBER IS WELL BUT I AM CONFUSED NOW BECAUSE TESLA IS PROVEN TO BE RELIABLE BUT SEAL NOT SURE AND LOT OF BYD CATCHING FIRE HERE AND THERE IN CHINA

[@geoffdmck]

You'll find it was the media reporting on the hybrid BYD's and not the full EV versions. Apparently hybrid vehicles are one of the worst for vehicle fires and that's not just BYD. The blade battery is very safe, so much so, Tesla have the BYD blade battery in their model 3 and model Y rwd.

[@adorolivar1340]

Toyota hybrid system is supreme

[@jihooncha-vs4om]

I'm scared of handing over my information to China.

[@ralphzoombeenie2330]

Why? I don't think they are any different to the nSA or GCHQ who have been gathering data on xitizens for decade. China will only be using it to improve their product marketing; not so sure of the other's motives.

[@Audios81]

Not a great impartial review. Two Aussie journalists have complained a lot about the Seal. This is one. I know who I won’t be listening to going forward. Definitely an agenda and a fanboy of other cars. One thing. Why the LOVE of one pedal driving? It’s not that complicated and MOST people don’t want this, they’d prefer the normal way of braking. Just saying. Do your research.

[@therightcar]

You’re nuts if you won’t watch reviews because the reviewer has a different take to others. Enjoy living in your weird little bubble.

[@jamesgowing3856]

Electric car. Don't do it