One of the best reviews of this car so far! Absolutely love that finally somebody is talking about the other variants and how they compare in terms of driving dynamics! Honestly apart from the price of the 3.8, you have to factor in significantly higher road tax and insurance for that insane amount of power. So while majority of buyers are looking at the RWD versions, and every review on youtube is on the 3.8s top spec AWD which is unfortunate
@@roadpilgrim I love Singapore, having visited a few times - but not recently. What is the (approximate) on road cost of a Seal in Singapore - and the annual cost of comprehensive insurance?
@@roadpilgrimhi mate, I have done test drive byd seal performance, I feel little continuous vibration on the steering wheel column (feels like not enough cushion on the front axle) especially when passing rough asphalt road or uneven road surface, please kindly share your experience regarding this issue
@@MHWibi Hey man I did not such issues during my extended test drive of the car. I’m not sure what condition your test car was in, but it sounds like worn out front links / control arms. I also suppose road conditions in different countries are different. Where are you located?
Does 18" fit in performance? Brakes too big? By the way, how many pistons calipers has? Does battery has heating/cooling? Just ordered Performance... :)
Nice balanced review. Another Aussie here. I've put a refundable deposit down on the mid RWD version known locally as the premium model. I'm tempted by the AWD Seal, but does a 60-year-old really need that amount of power on public roads? I think not! Locally there is a 10k difference between the two, not to mention the increase in insurance for the AWD. But yes, AWD has its advantages in "normal" driving. The Premium RWD has 230KW of power. That's quite a lot! I hope to test drive all three models before purchase, and I'm also interested in making sure the front bumper clearance is enough for my steep driveway where it levels out quickly after 3-4 metres. This will be the deal breaker for me unfortunately. If I can't get down the driveway without damaging the underside of the bumper, then I'll have to look elsewhere. This car (and other EV's such as the Tesla model 3) don't have the hard plastic strip under the front bumper that acts as a buffer for most minor scrapes. You scrape the BYD & Tesla then you've damaged the bumper! BTW, we recently purchased the Atto 3 which the wife drives. A nice car as well, although the software isn't allowing for any updates, so I have to make some enquiries to get that looked at. Currently on version 13.2xxx, even though there are later versions.
@@roadpilgrim Yes, I gleaned that from your comments which I appreciated. I've been trawling many reviews over the last few weeks, and reviews and test drives of the RWD Seal are as scarce as hens' teeth. I guess BYD would like to sell more AWD versions, but I wish more car journalists would review the RWD Seal as well. There have only been the odd passing remark of the RWD by most reviewers. Obviously, there is the temptation to get behind the wheel of the flagship car - given any choice. Thanks for your comments regarding the RWD as probably a better choice for most. I thought as much, but nice to hear it from one (at least) motoring journalist.
Great review 👍. I’m looking at a BYD seal to buy but the info system is in Chinese. Kindly let me know if there is a software to install to convert from Chinese to English. Thanks
What about the BEEP ALERTs...can they become annoying? (Speed limit for instance) cannot you block the sound Alerts to silence them forever ? Maybe in future updates? ...or to select Rumble alerts instead of sound alerts would be fine. The thing is that every time you turns the car on, you are forced to disable the Sound Beep Alers again and again, which can result very annoying... I am worried about this aspect really
I actually did not have to turn off any sound beeps and alerts when I drove the car across 3 days. So it does seem that it can be permanently turned off.
@@roadpilgrim can you check in your alert driving options that All of them continúes being enabled?? I mean, when you turned them off, are they continúe being off?? Please check It out Thank you so much !!
@@Andrew-NightThe reason why it is like that is because of EU regulations with the alarms/sounds. All cars from 2024 will have that if they are also sold in the EU. Doesnt matter what brand You will have to turn it off every single time. For example with the KIA ev 9 you also need to turn it off.
Great review and can’t wait to see more of these great looking cars on Australian roads. I just got my Polestar 2 LR RWD which I absolutely love. This would have been a strong contender for me but would miss functionality of the hatchback.
Really looking forward to getting my Seal Performance in January. Mine will be almost permanently in Eco mode..... I just wanted AWD for better traction in wet weather. I figure it makes it a bit safer for the daily commute. Super excited to hear what the Dynaudio system can do as well. I plan to sideload Sygic GPS Navigation, Google Calandar and Roon ARC and hotspot the internet from my phone while on the charge pad. Bluetooth is fine for phone calls ;)
Please advise what the infotainment system software version, the CPU, the overall responsiveness, the ADAS features bundled are and which features are certified for SG operation.
In Thailand all 3 versions come with a 2 piece sunshade as standard, it is a typical black sunshade material with a little transparency so does not make the car dark inside.
@@roadpilgrim it’s considered an expensive car at a surprisingly low price. Here it is up against Tesla which is obviously an excellent car with a great supercharger but here there are limited dealers ( 3 I think ) and the price is high.
Thank you for the kind words sir! The strap is an original vulcanised rubber strap from Omega. I don’t know if they still make it, but I’ve been through about 2. They last about 3-4 years
I'm pretty sure it's Atlantis Grey. What I've ordered. Arctic blue mentioned above is a lighter blue. Not sure how they came to use the word grey. LOL!
Driving modes should alter the throttle response / throttle mapping and not limit power, coz what if you find yourself in a situation where u need full power to get yourself out of danger... but you're in eco mode?
Honestly it’s hard to say which is better - because everyone’s definition of a good sound system is different. But I think the Dynaudio systems are right up there with Canton and Meridian. IMO better than Harmon/Kardon or JBL. But like I said, sound staging and preferences can be quite subjective
No it’s definitely more roomy than an A3. Perhaps more similar to an A4. But the 2nd row has an almost flat floor, which means it’s quite practical for carrying 3 in the back
@@roadpilgrim I have since seen this at the dealership. It is Hella roomy inside for a sedan due to its long wheelbase, but even in person it looks small like an A3 sedan, Kia Cerato, Honda Civic and the other cars in the compact sedan category. I checked the dimensions and it's similar to my medium size sedan. Strange. Maybe cos the back looks high and narrow. Hmm
If i'm the owner of the car I'll get rid of the BYD badges front and back and order the original Chinese Seal Script badge like those in sold in Tiongkok......much cooler I reckon:)
@@ronnie5966 haha just kidding. Actually for EVs they just kinda shut off after you get out of the driver’s seat. Some models stay on for longer, but some just turn off immediately. So if I’m not in the driver’s seat, it’s not possible to keep the lights on perpetually.
That is correct. My mistake. I assumed the licensing for wireless CarPlay would have been in. But I’m sure they are working on it - and will be available via an OTA update soon.
Too heavy and much less efficient than a model 3. Model 3 3.7 miles/kwh. Seal 3.1 miles/kwh. It cannot compete with Tesla. BYD needs to lift their game.
Not saying which is a better car - but each car has their strengths. I am of the opinion that the Seal is more comfortable and offers much better handling dynamics. But you are right, energy efficiency seems to be the Tesla’s strength. On the note of BYD needing to lift their game, I would suggest taking a look at BYD’s development at a global level rather than judging it off one car. If you look at the product range in the pipeline, I don’t think BYD would agree that it needs to catch up. This is said in contrast to Tesla’s somewhat tired lineup.
@@roadpilgrim sadly Chinese standard fare. (Is it about substandard chips I wonder). It’s the one thing I shall miss most when my Tesla/Musk divorce is finalised.
Don't simply say all Chinese, check out the cars with most advanced autonomous driving capability from Huawei, ADS 2.0 such as new 问界M5 and M7, it is better than Tesla, I know you don't believe me, I also didn't believe until i saw heaps of real world testing videos
@@No-thing-ness I test 2-3 cars per week, and for each review I’m definitely aware of which segment the car sits in, and what its performance figures roughly are. This allows me to form an opinion on how the car is performing in comparison to its segment mates. But at the end of the day, the spec sheet only matters to a limited extent. Why? Because there are cars like the new 318i Sedan that perform way better than its spec sheet figures. In such cases I might compare the car outside its performance segment, or perhaps decide to compare it within its price segment instead of its performance segment. You bring up a good point to be honest. And thanks for raising it. But there is a lot more to a car than its spec sheet figures. Thanks for the support and thanks for watching.
Pls get your facts right. The century sprint of 4.4 seconds is the Tesla Model 3 LR, not the Performance. The Performance variant has a century sprint time of 3.1 seconds. Don’t even comment when you don’t have your facts right.
Hey man! You’re absolutely right. 4.4 seconds is indeed the LR variant of the Model 3 and not the performance. My mistake. I apologise for getting that wrong. That said, aside from the 0-100 timing, the comparison is still a fair one. As the Model 3 LR sits in the same price range as the Seal Performance, in which case the Seal provides better value. It should also be noted that in Singapore right now, the Model 3 Performance isn’t even on sale anymore. The top spec car you can buy is the LR. Which means that the conversation about the Model 3 Performance is somewhat irrelevant.
One of the best reviews of this car so far! Absolutely love that finally somebody is talking about the other variants and how they compare in terms of driving dynamics!
Honestly apart from the price of the 3.8, you have to factor in significantly higher road tax and insurance for that insane amount of power. So while majority of buyers are looking at the RWD versions, and every review on youtube is on the 3.8s top spec AWD which is unfortunate
Thanks for the support! Glad you enjoyed the review. I’d have to agree that the mid spec car really hits the sweet spot here in Singapore.
@@roadpilgrim I love Singapore, having visited a few times - but not recently. What is the (approximate) on road cost of a Seal in Singapore - and the annual cost of comprehensive insurance?
@@roadpilgrimhi mate, I have done test drive byd seal performance, I feel little continuous vibration on the steering wheel column (feels like not enough cushion on the front axle) especially when passing rough asphalt road or uneven road surface, please kindly share your experience regarding this issue
@@MHWibi Hey man I did not such issues during my extended test drive of the car. I’m not sure what condition your test car was in, but it sounds like worn out front links / control arms. I also suppose road conditions in different countries are different. Where are you located?
Does 18" fit in performance? Brakes too big? By the way, how many pistons calipers has? Does battery has heating/cooling? Just ordered Performance... :)
And you can use 100% of the battery not hurting the battery and it is one of the safest battery you can have.
Genarally they recomended 80% or 90%, is it different for byd
Its LFP BATTERY SO IT CAN GO TO 100 percent most of the time
@@007MrEmir simple answer yes
Despite being able to charge to 100% is it better not to? Even just slightly?
@@CThienVFor LFP it's recommended to charge it to 100%
Nice balanced review. Another Aussie here. I've put a refundable deposit down on the mid RWD version known locally as the premium model. I'm tempted by the AWD Seal, but does a 60-year-old really need that amount of power on public roads? I think not! Locally there is a 10k difference between the two, not to mention the increase in insurance for the AWD. But yes, AWD has its advantages in "normal" driving. The Premium RWD has 230KW of power. That's quite a lot! I hope to test drive all three models before purchase, and I'm also interested in making sure the front bumper clearance is enough for my steep driveway where it levels out quickly after 3-4 metres. This will be the deal breaker for me unfortunately. If I can't get down the driveway without damaging the underside of the bumper, then I'll have to look elsewhere. This car (and other EV's such as the Tesla model 3) don't have the hard plastic strip under the front bumper that acts as a buffer for most minor scrapes. You scrape the BYD & Tesla then you've damaged the bumper!
BTW, we recently purchased the Atto 3 which the wife drives. A nice car as well, although the software isn't allowing for any updates, so I have to make some enquiries to get that looked at. Currently on version 13.2xxx, even though there are later versions.
I actually really liked the mid spec RWD. I feel like it’s a nicer car to handle. But of course, power in the AWD is another level.
@@roadpilgrim Yes, I gleaned that from your comments which I appreciated. I've been trawling many reviews over the last few weeks, and reviews and test drives of the RWD Seal are as scarce as hens' teeth. I guess BYD would like to sell more AWD versions, but I wish more car journalists would review the RWD Seal as well. There have only been the odd passing remark of the RWD by most reviewers. Obviously, there is the temptation to get behind the wheel of the flagship car - given any choice.
Thanks for your comments regarding the RWD as probably a better choice for most. I thought as much, but nice to hear it from one (at least) motoring journalist.
I’m a 70 yo.Ordered the Performance model for AWD and might use that extra power😂 should be fun.
Great review 👍. I’m looking at a BYD seal to buy but the info system is in Chinese. Kindly let me know if there is a software to install to convert from Chinese to English. Thanks
Hey man! Which country are you in? The ones in Singapore are in English already.
How is the regenerative breaking? Is it one pedal driving like the Tesla?
No one pedal driving
What about the BEEP ALERTs...can they become annoying? (Speed limit for instance) cannot you block the sound Alerts to silence them forever ? Maybe in future updates? ...or to select Rumble alerts instead of sound alerts would be fine.
The thing is that every time you turns the car on, you are forced to disable the Sound Beep Alers again and again, which can result very annoying... I am worried about this aspect really
I actually did not have to turn off any sound beeps and alerts when I drove the car across 3 days. So it does seem that it can be permanently turned off.
@@roadpilgrim can you check in your alert driving options that All of them continúes being enabled??
I mean, when you turned them off, are they continúe being off?? Please check It out
Thank you so much !!
@@Andrew-Night Hey man. So sorry but the car is a media test unit that we used for the review. It’s not with me anymore.
@@Andrew-NightThe reason why it is like that is because of EU regulations with the alarms/sounds. All cars from 2024 will have that if they are also sold in the EU. Doesnt matter what brand
You will have to turn it off every single time.
For example with the KIA ev 9 you also need to turn it off.
what color is best for byd seal, Aurora White or Atlantis Gray?
I’d pick the white or black over the greys, just cause I feel like they are less common. The black especially really makes an impression
Great review and can’t wait to see more of these great looking cars on Australian roads. I just got my Polestar 2 LR RWD which I absolutely love. This would have been a strong contender for me but would miss functionality of the hatchback.
Thanks for the support. Yeah I did wish this car came as a lift back. Would have been good for practicality.
Really looking forward to getting my Seal Performance in January. Mine will be almost permanently in Eco mode..... I just wanted AWD for better traction in wet weather. I figure it makes it a bit safer for the daily commute. Super excited to hear what the Dynaudio system can do as well. I plan to sideload Sygic GPS Navigation, Google Calandar and Roon ARC and hotspot the internet from my phone while on the charge pad. Bluetooth is fine for phone calls ;)
Exciting stuff. Hope you enjoy your ride!
Please advise what the infotainment system software version, the CPU, the overall responsiveness, the ADAS features bundled are and which features are certified for SG operation.
Hi bro. For the most current information, please contact the dealer directly. Software versions get updated all the time.
Its hard to see in pictures but is light color interior white or some kind of pale blue?
It’s some sort of greyish blue
How about the paint quality and anti rust ?
It's a well built car. Better than a Tesla any day.
The Dynaudio system is ok at best to be honest, it isn't bad, but i wouldn't say it's good either.
The moonroof cannot be close is a big nono for me in SG climate
In Thailand all 3 versions come with a 2 piece sunshade as standard, it is a typical black sunshade material with a little transparency so does not make the car dark inside.
I see. Is this car considered expensive in Thailand?
@@roadpilgrim it’s considered an expensive car at a surprisingly low price. Here it is up against Tesla which is obviously an excellent car with a great supercharger but here there are limited dealers ( 3 I think ) and the price is high.
Your channels should receive way more views!!
Side topic, what strap are you pairing with your planet ocean?
Thank you for the kind words sir!
The strap is an original vulcanised rubber strap from Omega. I don’t know if they still make it, but I’ve been through about 2. They last about 3-4 years
Great review. Just bought one of these in Thailand in white exterior, black interior. Should be arriving from the dealer any day now!
Thanks for the support! The white looks really good. Enjoy your ride!
Great review. Most detailed one thus far.
Thank you sir! Appreciate the support.
Hi, What colour is this seal?
I think this is arctic blue. But atlantis grey and artic blue look so similar that i get super confused all the time.
I'm pretty sure it's Atlantis Grey. What I've ordered. Arctic blue mentioned above is a lighter blue. Not sure how they came to use the word grey. LOL!
Hey man it’s Atlantis Grey!
This car is in Atlantis Grey. 👍
Yep spot on. Atlantis Grey.
Driving modes should alter the throttle response / throttle mapping and not limit power, coz what if you find yourself in a situation where u need full power to get yourself out of danger... but you're in eco mode?
Whats your favorite colour? Torn between gray and black!
I’d take a black man. Lower it and slap on some larger gunmetal wheels.
Superb. I went for black too haha. Just signed today. Fingers crossed!
Can anyone comment on the Dynaudio sound system compared to the Tesla Model Y?
Honestly it’s hard to say which is better - because everyone’s definition of a good sound system is different. But I think the Dynaudio systems are right up there with Canton and Meridian. IMO better than Harmon/Kardon or JBL. But like I said, sound staging and preferences can be quite subjective
Nice shoes! Which brand/model? 😊
Hey man thanks! These are the Mexico 66 Slip-Ons from Onitsuka Tiger.
Looking forward for this car launch in Mlysia.. Thanks for the review bro subscribe ❤
Thanks for the support!
Is this car small? Or does it just look snall, like an audi A3 sedan ?
No it’s definitely more roomy than an A3. Perhaps more similar to an A4. But the 2nd row has an almost flat floor, which means it’s quite practical for carrying 3 in the back
@@roadpilgrim I have since seen this at the dealership. It is Hella roomy inside for a sedan due to its long wheelbase, but even in person it looks small like an A3 sedan, Kia Cerato, Honda Civic and the other cars in the compact sedan category.
I checked the dimensions and it's similar to my medium size sedan. Strange. Maybe cos the back looks high and narrow. Hmm
If i'm the owner of the car I'll get rid of the BYD badges front and back and order the original Chinese Seal Script badge like those in sold in Tiongkok......much cooler I reckon:)
That’s a pretty cool idea. Fully embrace the Chinese EV ownership experience right?
SGD280K not a lot of money?
Considering the price spectrum of cars in Singapore today, and the performance you get in this car, no - I don’t think it’s a lot of money.
Wow……RHD ……AND ……..Indicator stalk on the CORRECT SIDE !!! I just hope it is the same for the Australian market.
Having owned a few Volkswagens, I'll have to get used to the indicators back on the RHS. 🙂
@@Paul-ow9dd like Japanese and Korean offerings
I’d assume all the BYD Seals globally would have the signal stalks on the right
@@roadpilgrim not SAIC however……..the (British?) MG is on the left. It’s odd to have such inconsistency.
You forgot to keep lights on when shooting exterior.
Did I forget? Or did I just not do it because I didn’t intend to?
@@roadpilgrim Looks nicer with lights on.
@@ronnie5966 haha just kidding. Actually for EVs they just kinda shut off after you get out of the driver’s seat. Some models stay on for longer, but some just turn off immediately. So if I’m not in the driver’s seat, it’s not possible to keep the lights on perpetually.
Atlantis Grey?
Yep
BYD Seal is much more expensive than Tesla Model 3 Highland!
Thanks to competition from BYD. Now, we can afford to buy Tesla EV.👍👏💪🇸🇬
I think you might want to check with BYD on the actual sales offer. Think the Seal is about the same price as the Model 3 in Singapore (like for like)
i habe no problems to pay more not to have a tesla
carplay is wired, android auto is wireless
That is correct. My mistake. I assumed the licensing for wireless CarPlay would have been in. But I’m sure they are working on it - and will be available via an OTA update soon.
Too heavy and much less efficient than a model 3. Model 3 3.7 miles/kwh. Seal 3.1 miles/kwh. It cannot compete with Tesla. BYD needs to lift their game.
Not saying which is a better car - but each car has their strengths. I am of the opinion that the Seal is more comfortable and offers much better handling dynamics. But you are right, energy efficiency seems to be the Tesla’s strength. On the note of BYD needing to lift their game, I would suggest taking a look at BYD’s development at a global level rather than judging it off one car. If you look at the product range in the pipeline, I don’t think BYD would agree that it needs to catch up. This is said in contrast to Tesla’s somewhat tired lineup.
Tesla has excellent LKA which the Chinese struggle with.
Gotta admit the LKA in the Seal was a tad bit fiddly. Bounces you between the lines a little bit.
@@roadpilgrim sadly Chinese standard fare. (Is it about substandard chips I wonder). It’s the one thing I shall miss most when my Tesla/Musk divorce is finalised.
Don't simply say all Chinese, check out the cars with most advanced autonomous driving capability from Huawei, ADS 2.0 such as new 问界M5 and M7, it is better than Tesla, I know you don't believe me, I also didn't believe until i saw heaps of real world testing videos
@@aq3614 BMWs ?.
@@davidpearn5925AITO M5 and M7
Maybe know the data. Maybe know the facts. Lazy very lazy review
You can read a brochure for the specs. I’m here to give my opinion.
@@roadpilgrim okay fair enough but how can one have a formed an opinion in comparisons to others when you do not know their corresponding data?
@@No-thing-ness I test 2-3 cars per week, and for each review I’m definitely aware of which segment the car sits in, and what its performance figures roughly are. This allows me to form an opinion on how the car is performing in comparison to its segment mates. But at the end of the day, the spec sheet only matters to a limited extent. Why? Because there are cars like the new 318i Sedan that perform way better than its spec sheet figures. In such cases I might compare the car outside its performance segment, or perhaps decide to compare it within its price segment instead of its performance segment.
You bring up a good point to be honest. And thanks for raising it. But there is a lot more to a car than its spec sheet figures.
Thanks for the support and thanks for watching.
Pls get your facts right. The century sprint of 4.4 seconds is the Tesla Model 3 LR, not the Performance. The Performance variant has a century sprint time of 3.1 seconds. Don’t even comment when you don’t have your facts right.
Hey man! You’re absolutely right. 4.4 seconds is indeed the LR variant of the Model 3 and not the performance. My mistake. I apologise for getting that wrong.
That said, aside from the 0-100 timing, the comparison is still a fair one. As the Model 3 LR sits in the same price range as the Seal Performance, in which case the Seal provides better value.
It should also be noted that in Singapore right now, the Model 3 Performance isn’t even on sale anymore. The top spec car you can buy is the LR. Which means that the conversation about the Model 3 Performance is somewhat irrelevant.
does it hurt this much owning a tesla?
When i'll decide to have a toxic bbq ii'll call you,i beleave one car enought
What do you mean?