BYD SEALION 7 vs. Tesla Model Y: which is better?
Get the details on two impressive electric SUVs and what they have to offer.
)
)
Choosing between the BYD SEALION 7 vs. the Tesla Model Y is tricky. The BYD is relatively new to the market but gaining an impressive rep, while the Tesla feels more familiar.
Both of these electric SUVs offer long all-electric ranges, strong performance and modern tech, but are very different in their approach.
Our guide compares the BYD SEALION 7 vs. Tesla Model Y by looking at the engines, interior, tech, reliability and space to see which suits your needs the most.
)
What’s better: the BYD SEALION 7 or Tesla Model Y?
Our guide will answer:
Which car has better styling?
Is the BYD SEALION 7 or Tesla Model Y better to drive?
Does the BYD SEALION 7 or Tesla Model Y have better tech?
Is the BYD SEALION 7 or Tesla Model Y more reliable?
What are the BYD SEALION 7 vs. Tesla Model Y dimensions?
BYD SEALION 7 vs. Tesla Model Y: Styling
)
Both the BYD and Tesla have a premium feel about them, though in slightly different ways.
The Tesla Model Y will appeal to minimalists who appreciate a sleek look and simplistic cabin.
The swooping roofline and lack of sharp angles feel futuristic. It’s an instantly recognisable option – most motorists can pick out a Tesla from a line-up of ‘normal’ cars.
The BYD SEALION 7 is premium in a more traditional sense, with sharp LED lighting and a modern SUV profile.
It actually doesn’t look out of place next to the Tesla (in the same way a BMW SUV would look quite different) but adds more creases throughout.
BYD SEALION 7 vs. Tesla Model Y: What are they like to drive?
)
As they’re both electric, you can expect a peppy and smooth drive from each car.
Driving the BYD SEALION 7 is a smooth and calm experience. You can tell comfort comes first, with a quiet cabin and the option of all-wheel drive to improve traction.
The Model Y feels firmer, and the Performance variant has noticeably quicker acceleration and throttle responses.
The SEALION 7 has a pretty straightforward range of powertrains:
BYD SEALION 7 motor options:
Comfort: single-motor, rear-wheel drive, 82.5kWh battery with up to 300 miles of range
Design: dual-motor, all-wheel drive, 82.5kWh battery with up to 283 miles of range
Excellence: dual-motor, all-wheel drive, 91.3kWh battery with up to 312 miles of range
The Model Y gets a bit more confusing, mostly because it’s been around a lot longer.
There are standard-range models with 64kWh batteries, or long-range models with 78-82kWh batteries.
Both Model Y engine types have the choice of all-wheel or rear-wheel drive for varied performance outputs. Electric ranges start at about 309 miles and go up to 408 miles.
BYD SEALION 7 vs. Tesla Model Y: Interior and technology
)
You won’t be strapped for tech in either car, and there’s no questions on the interior quality either.
The Tesla Model Y has that classic ‘stripped’ back Telsa feel, but you can expect:
A single 15-inch touchscreen
Built-in entertainment suite with streaming service options like Netflix (only while you’re in park!)
Wraparound customisable ambient lighting
Wireless smartphone charging
Power-adjustable front seats
Heated seats all round
The BYD SEALION 7 includes features like:
A 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment screen
Option for a head-up display
Heated seats and steering wheel
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Wireless smartphone charging with cooling function
BYD SEALION 7 vs. Tesla Model Y: Boot space and practicality
)
Having an electric SUV is very practical if you can easily charge it.
If charging is an issue, then practicality isn’t what’s going to get you in one of these cars.
Past that, both cars are spacious with plenty of room for rear and front passengers.
Keep in mind that the Model Y can be a five- or seven-seater, while the SEALION 7 seats five.
The SEALION 7 has a very usable 520-litre boot, while the Model Y has an astronomically large 854-litre boot. Though it should be noted that Tesla measures boot space up to the ceiling, not the top of the headrests like almost all over brands.
BYD SEALION 7 vs. Tesla Model Y: Safety and reliability
Both the Model Y and SEALION 7 are considered safe cars and have performed well in testing.
They both scored a full five-stars in the Euro NCAP crash test, with the BYD getting a seriously impressive 93% child occupant rating.
The Model Y benefits from Tesla’s impressive reliability reputation, with proven long-term battery health and software support.
Though it’s a bit of a newbie on UK roads, the BYD has a lengthy six-year vehicle warranty and an eight-year battery warranty.
BYD SEALION 7 vs. Tesla Model Y: Dimensions
BYD SEALION 7
Length: 4,830 mm
Width: 2,189mm (including mirrors)
Height: 1620mm
Boot space: 520 litres
Tesla Model Y
Length: 4,751mm-4,795mm
Width: 1,920mm (including mirrors)
Height: 1,621mm
Boot space: 854 litres
Verdict: BYD SEALION 7 vs. Tesla Model Y – which should you buy?
Choosing between the BYD SEALION 7 and Tesla Model Y might not be that tricky once you get down to the details.
Do you want a modern electric SUV with five seats, great value for money and a long warranty? The BYD SEALION 7 might appeal to you more.
Would you prefer minimalist styling, some pretty whacky tech and loads of motors to pick from? The Tesla Model Y is the clear pick.
)
