BYD Seal 5 DM-i: pros and cons

The BYD Seal 5 DM-i is the newest offering from the local wing of the South Korean carmaker here in the Philippines. Launched not too long ago, the hybrid car looks to conquer the compact car segment with its futuristic looks, luxurious interior, and sustainable powertrain system.

But is its arsenal of enticing features enough to sway Filipino car buyers from switching from segment staples? Join us to find out as we check the pros and cons of the BYD Seal 5 DM-i.

Pros:

Modern exterior

As we have mentioned earlier, one of the selling points of the BYD Seal 5 DM-i is its modern-looking exterior. The front end of the vehicle sports vertical design cues that signal stability and sure-footedness.

Its two LED headlamps are aligned with the long horizontal chrome accent where the company’s emblem rests. The side profile of the compact sedan is sleek and minimalist with a strong bodyline that emphasizes the car’s reliability. It rides on either 16- or 17-inch wheels with a two-tone design.

Behind the BYD Seal 5 DM-i are design elements that mimic what can be seen at the front. A beautiful light bar embraces its rear and cradles its two LED taillamps. Set in chrome is the company logo, the “DM-i” platform badge, and the “Seal 5” nameplate.

Up-to-date car tech

Inside, the BYD Seal 5 DM-i can draw today’s generation of car buyers with its up-to-date suite of automotive appointments.

Nestled on the three-spoke steering wheel are various controls to operate the car’s many technological features. Past it is a digital instrument cluster that feeds the driver relevant information in crisp detail. Accompanying the instrument panel is a 12.8-inch rotating infotainment screen that allows seamless smartphone integration and use of various features like audio and navigation apps.

Fuel-efficient powertrain

Those who want to transition to a more sustainable means of transportation will find what they are looking for with the BYD Seal 5 DM-i. It is designed with an electric vehicle-first approach, so instead of using the 1.5-liter gasoline engine as its main propulsion unit, the sedan instead uses it as a range extender or a generator to power the permanent magnet synchronous motor that drives the vehicle.

According to BYD Cars Philippines, it drives up to 50 kilometers in full electric mode and pushes the numbers to 1,175 with the range extender in play. To put things into perspective, a single full tank can take its owners from Santa Rosa, Laguna to Baguio City twice, back and forth.

Cons:

Mostly digital controls

The BYD Seal 5 DM-i is fitted mostly with digital controls. This means that operating the many functions of the sedan requires its driver to pause — or take his or her focus off the road momentarily — to find the right menu on the infotainment screen.

As an example, traditional buttons to operate the air conditioning unit have been omitted from the center console. It has been replaced by gesture controls, which means that the owner must get used to swiping three fingers left, right, up, or down, to adjust the temperature inside the vehicle.

Somewhat limited paint options

The BYD Seal 5 DM-i is available only in four colors and while some may find that they are enough, these hues can be a little demure and discreet for others. Below are the available colors:

• Harbour Grey
• Arctic White
• Quartz Blue
• Cosmos Black

It would be better if they added more fun and exciting colorways for car buyers who want to stand out in the crowd.

Final thoughts

The BYD Seal 5 DM-i is a testament of the Ayala-led brand’s commitment to democratizing electric vehicles. By introducing a sub-P1 million compact car, it makes sustainable driving more attainable to Filipino motorists.

The shortcomings of the BYD Seal 5 DM-i can easily be overlooked, especially when one sees what they can get for the price of some segment staples.

Also read:

2024 PEVS: BYD Cars PH launches Seal

BYD Cars PH rolls out Seal 5 DM-i

BYD celebrates 30th anniversary