Key Highlights
- The BYD Sealion 6 PHEV has been spotted testing on Indian roads again, this time completely undisguised.
- It will be BYD’s first plug-in hybrid model in India. Launch is expected by end-2026.
- The Sealion 6 is powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with an 18.3 kWh battery and claims a combined range of over 1,000 km.
BYD has been selling electric cars in India for a while now. But the Sealion 6 changes the game. It is a plug-in hybrid, and it has just been spotted on Indian roads without any camouflage. That is a strong hint that a launch is not far away.
The test mule was caught on a national highway. It was undisguised, badge and all. This is the second time the Sealion 6 has been spotted testing in India, and the fact that BYD is running it without camouflage suggests the car is well into its pre-launch phase.
What is the Sealion 6?
The Sealion 6 is a mid-size SUV. It measures 4,775 mm in length, with a wheelbase of 2,765 mm. The design follows BYD’s Ocean Series language. You get a sleek front end with C-shaped LED headlamps, a coupe-like roofline, and connected tail lights at the rear. It looks more premium than boxy, which should work well in India.
Inside, the cabin gets a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display, and a 10-speaker Infinity audio system. Heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, dual wireless chargers, and a 360-degree camera are all part of the package. Safety is covered by 7 airbags and a full ADAS suite.
Powertrain
The Sealion 6 uses BYD’s DM-i plug-in hybrid system. A 1.5-litre petrol engine works alongside an electric motor and an 18.3 kWh BYD Blade battery. Combined output is 217.5 PS and 550 Nm. BYD claims a combined range of over 1,000 km on a full tank and charge. The electric-only range is expected to be around 80 to 90 km.
That range figure is the biggest talking point. For buyers worried about charging infrastructure outside cities, a PHEV with 1,000-plus km of combined range is a very compelling answer.
What to expect?
BYD has not confirmed a launch date or price. A festive season launch by end-2026 is widely expected. Pricing is likely to fall between Rs 35 lakh and Rs 45 lakh (ex-showroom). At that price, it will go up against the upcoming MG 520 PHEV and be an alternative to large petrol SUVs like the Hyundai Creta and Tata Harrier.
More details as they come.
Also read: New Honda compact SUV launch in 2028 – Maruti Brezza rival
