BYD has introduced the 2026 Seal 05 DM-i, the latest iteration of its popular plug-in hybrid sedan, now boasting a pure electric range of up to 128 kilometres (CLTC) and a total driving range of an impressive 2,000km. Despite these substantial improvements, the car maintains its starting price of 79,800 yuan (around RM52,000), reinforcing BYD’s commitment to offering high-value electrified mobility.
The Seal 05 DM-i continues to embrace BYD’s “Ocean Aesthetics” design philosophy, which favours clean, fluid lines and aerodynamic efficiency. For 2026, subtle refinements have been made to streamline its appearance further, including the removal of the automatic front grille. This small but deliberate change gives the car a more cohesive front profile while preserving its sleek, modern look.
Inside, the cabin keeps to its minimalist and practical roots, with thoughtful updates aimed at improving comfort and usability. The familiar flat-bottom three-spoke steering wheel and dual-screen layout remain — an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster sits ahead of the driver, while a 10.1-inch central touchscreen runs the brand’s DiLink smart cockpit system.
The most notable interior revision is the switch from the previous crystal gear lever to a column-mounted electronic shifter, which opens up additional space on the centre console for storage and convenience.
Standard equipment continues to strike a balance between simplicity and modern functionality. Buyers get manual front seat adjustments, a six-speaker audio system, six airbags, cruise control, and remote vehicle operation through BYD’s smartphone app. With a 508-litre boot, the Seal 05 DM-i remains well-suited for everyday family or commuter use, combining practicality with cutting-edge hybrid technology.
Beneath the surface lies BYD’s fifth-generation DM hybrid system — a combination of a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine and a front-mounted electric motor. The petrol engine delivers 99hp and 126 Nm of torque, while the electric motor adds a further 161hp and 210 Nm, resulting in a combined system output that propels the car from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.9 seconds. Powering this setup is BYD’s latest 15.87 kWh Blade battery, a key component behind the Seal 05 DM-i’s upgraded efficiency.
The improvements are immediately evident in real-world numbers — the car’s pure electric range jumps from the previous 55km to 128km, and with both the tank and battery full, it can now travel up to 2,000km before needing a refill. Combined fuel consumption stands at just 3.08 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC), positioning the Seal 05 DM-i as one of the most efficient plug-in hybrids in its class.
Although BYD has resisted the temptation to overhaul the car’s exterior or interior design for 2026, the updates introduced go straight to the heart of what matters to most drivers — efficiency, range, and everyday usability.
