BYD Sealion 5 DM-i hybrid SUV arrives in the UK in 2026

BYD continues to broaden its model range at pace. In January 2026, the new Sealion 5 DM-i crossover will arrive in the UK, becoming the brand’s ninth model in under three years. Positioned against the Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson and Nissan Qashqai, it aims straight at the core of the midsize SUV class, a sign that BYD intends to build real momentum rather than nibble at the edges.

The BYD Sealion 5 DM-i uses a hybrid setup that pairs a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor. The system delivers a combined 194 hp and 300 Nm of torque, with preliminary figures suggesting a 0–100 km/h time of about 8.3 seconds. That may not chase lap times, but it promises the kind of easy, flexible pace that suits everyday use.

A 12.96 kWh battery provides up to 71 km of electric-only driving, while total range reaches up to 1,000 km. Inside, the car features a rotating display and a Vehicle to Load system. Taken together, the Sealion 5 looks set to be one of 2026’s newcomers that draws attention for its mix of performance, range and functionality.