BYD has officially launched the 2026 Sealion 06 DM-i in China, marking a significant step up from its predecessor with the introduction of the company’s fifth-generation DM hybrid system. The updated SUV goes on sale today across four trim levels, with prices ranging from ¥129,900 to ¥159,900 (approximately $19,100–$23,500 USD). The headline upgrade is a jump in pure electric range to 310 km under the CLTC test cycle on the top two trims, paired with a total combined driving range of 1,845 km on a full tank and full charge — one of the most capable figures in its segment.
Trim Levels & Pricing
The four trim levels are the 205 Pilot Edition at ¥129,900, the 205 Pilot Pro Edition at ¥139,900, the 310 Voyage Edition at ¥149,900, and the 310 Flagship Edition at ¥159,900.
Fifth-Gen DM Powertrain
At the heart of the update is BYD’s fifth-generation DM plug-in hybrid system. The powertrain combines a 1.5L BYD472QC engine with a 175 kW peak drive motor, with a curb weight of 1,930 kg. In everyday use, the system delivers an NEDC fuel consumption rate of just 3.3L per 100 km in low-battery state, and a combined range of 1,845 km on a full tank and full charge.
Optional God’s Eye B Driving Assistance
The new model offers an optional “God’s Eye B” advanced driving assistance system under the DiPilot 300 banner, providing full-scenario capabilities including City Navigate on Autopilot, High-speed Navigate on Autopilot, traffic light recognition with real-time countdowns, adaptive traffic manoeuvring, and roundabout navigation. The optional lidar package bundled with DiPilot 300 is priced at ¥12,000 ($1,770). The system is complemented by the DiLink 150 smart cockpit with a redesigned interface and a customised AutoNavi Maps integration.
Smarter Chassis and New Safety Tech
The 2026 Sealion 06 DM-i is equipped with the DiSus-C intelligent damping body control system, now featuring a road surface pre-scanning function that proactively identifies irregularities such as manhole covers and speed bumps, adjusting suspension damping in real time. The car also introduces a motion sickness prevention mode that coordinates the chassis, cabin environment, and powertrain for improved rear-seat comfort. On the safety front, a high-speed tyre blowout stabilisation system delivers millisecond-level responses to maintain control during a blowout at speeds up to 140 km/h.
Design & Comfort Updates
The 2026 model adds a new “Glazed Silver” exterior colour and “Twilight Blue” interior theme, along with front-seat memory and massage functions, a front-passenger leg rest, and an intelligent fragrance system. Additional interior features include a 15.6-inch floating centre screen, a W-HUD head-up display, a 50W wireless charging pad, a 12-speaker Dynaudio audio system, and a rear flat-floor seating layout.
Strong Sales Momentum
BYD Sealion 06 domestic sales reached 19,649 units in April 2026, up 7.7% from March, following deliveries of 18,237 in March, 6,287 in February, and 6,640 in January. Display cars have already arrived at BYD dealerships across China ahead of today’s official sale date.
The Sealion 06 DM-i launch is the first of two major PHEV releases this week, with the BYD Song Ultra DM-i set to follow on May 28.
