The Chinese company BYD continues its rapid advance in the global electric vehicle market, and its new Sealion 7 crossover has become one of the most prominent premieres of 2025. This model, positioned as a direct competitor to the Tesla Model Y, combines impressive dynamics, a high level of equipment, and a price that the American brand finds difficult to compete with.
In Australia, the Sealion 7 is offered in two versions — Premium and Performance. The top-of-the-line configuration, tested by Carscoops, costs 63,990 Australian dollars (approximately 42,100 US dollars), which is noticeably cheaper than the Tesla Model Y Long Range (45,400 US dollars) and especially the Performance version (58,900 US dollars). Despite this difference, BYD has not compromised on performance.
The model is equipped with two electric motors with a total output of 523 hp (390 kW) and a torque of 690 N·m. Energy is supplied by an 82.56 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery. Acceleration to 100 km/h takes 4.5 seconds — only a second slower than the Tesla Model Y Performance. At the same time, the Sealion 7 weighs 2.34 tons and can travel up to 456 km on the WLTP cycle, although in real conditions the range is closer to 400 km.
The interior was the main surprise. With a price close to mass-market crossovers, the interior is made in a premium style: soft leather, suede, and metal accents. In the center is a large 15.6-inch multimedia system display that can switch from vertical to horizontal orientation. The interface is simple and responsive, and standard equipment includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a panoramic roof with an electric blind, a Hi-Fi audio system, and a 50W wireless charger.
The rear seats offer space comparable to more expensive Audi and BMW models, and the multi-colored lighting and soft seats create the feeling of a higher-class car. Against this background, even the Tesla Model Y looks more utilitarian.
On the road, the Sealion 7 makes a mixed impression. The electric motors provide instant response and rapid acceleration, but the handling does not reach the level of the best competitors. On winding roads, the car is prone to understeer, and the suspension, tuned for sportiness, seems too stiff. In addition, there is noticeable wind noise from the mirrors and pillars at speeds above 60 km/h.
Nevertheless, in everyday use, the Sealion 7 shows its best side. It is comfortable in the city, easy to drive, has excellent visibility, and requires almost no getting used to. The absence of a one-pedal driving mode can be considered a disadvantage, but this does not spoil the overall impression — the electric crossover remains smooth and predictable.
In terms of the combination of dynamics, equipment, and price, the BYD Sealion 7 can indeed become a serious competitor to Tesla. Its luxurious interior and impressive power of 523 hp at a cost of about 42 thousand dollars create a unique offer on the market.
