2026 Fiat 500 Hybrid revealed for city car fans who don't want EVs or automatics
The 2026 Fiat 500 Hybrid has been revealed – with a manual transmission – but the Italian brand's first new-generation petrol-powered city car in 18 years is yet to be confirmed for release in Australia, where the old Fiat 500 was axed last year due to slow sales.
Based on the much newer Fiat 500e electric hatch released in 2023, the first Fiat 500 Hybrid looks identical to the pint-size electric hatch apart from a revised grille (covered in camo wrap on the pre-production vehicles you see here) to direct air to its petrol-electric powertrain.
There's also a capless fuel filler to replace the Fiat 500e's rear-quarter charging port.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
It's unclear exactly which electrified petrol engine will power the new Fiat 500, but it's expected to be the same 1.0-litre three-cylinder mild-hybrid Firefly unit seen in the old Fiat Panda, and overseas versions of the Fiat 500 since 2020.
The appearance of a six-speed manual gear selector in these images rules out the 1.2-litre three-cylinder mild-hybrid Puretech engine employed by a variety of Stellantis models including the new Fiat Grande Panda, which is fitted only with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Fiat says production of the 500 Hybrid is on target to begin at its Mirafiori plant outside Turin in November, ahead of first deliveries across Europe.
Once at full capacity, annual production is expected to be more than 100,000 units, with at least 70 per cent of that due to be exported outside Italy.
Fiat's unprecedented move to retrofit a battery-electric vehicle (EV) with a combustion engine not only gives it a replacement for the 17-year-old Fiat 500 that was discontinued to due EU cybersecurity legislation, but increases the output of its Mirafiori factory amid slow sales of the 500e and its Abarth 500e hot hatch sister model, production of which was paused to meet demand last year.
"500 hybrid offers affordable electrification and iconic style, proof that social relevance is at the core of the brand mission," said Fiat CEO and Stellantis Global CMO, Olivier Francois.
"With the 500 Hybrid, we are strengthening production at Mirafiori to ensure the plant's productivity and meet the demand. Our roots are in Italy and it's no coincidence that the two most iconic Fiat are made here: the Panda in Pomigliano and the 500 in Mirafiori."
Previously, Fiat said it would also invest €100 million (A$173.7m) into future development the 500e, including a redesigned platform to accommodate new battery technologies that aim to improve its affordability.
An upgraded version of the 500e is therefore expected around 2026.
While the Fiat 500 was discontinued in Australia in mid-2024, when further imports of the petrol-powered micro-car ceased, some MY24 stock remains available.
Powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine producing 51kW of power and 102Nm of torque, the Fiat 500 Dolcevita can still be had for $28,900 before on-road costs, while the Abarth 695 remains available from $38,900, powered by a 132kW/250Nm 1.4-litre petrol four.
But when stocks are exhausted, Fiat Australia's only models will be the Ducato van, the Fiat 500e La Prima with an 87kW/220Nm electric motor for $52,500 plus on-roads, and the Abarth 500e with a 134kW/235Nm electric motor, priced from $58,900.
Fiat Australia sold 146 Fiat/Abarth 500/500e vehicles in the first third of this year, down 22 per cent on the same January-April period last year.
MORE: Everything Fiat 500
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
The 2026 Fiat 500 Hybrid has been revealed – with a manual transmission – but the Italian brand's first new-generation petrol-powered city car in 18 years is yet to be confirmed for release in Australia, where the old Fiat 500 was axed last year due to slow sales.
Based on the much newer Fiat 500e electric hatch released in 2023, the first Fiat 500 Hybrid looks identical to the pint-size electric hatch apart from a revised grille (covered in camo wrap on the pre-production vehicles you see here) to direct air to its petrol-electric powertrain.
There's also a capless fuel filler to replace the Fiat 500e's rear-quarter charging port.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
It's unclear exactly which electrified petrol engine will power the new Fiat 500, but it's expected to be the same 1.0-litre three-cylinder mild-hybrid Firefly unit seen in the old Fiat Panda, and overseas versions of the Fiat 500 since 2020.
The appearance of a six-speed manual gear selector in these images rules out the 1.2-litre three-cylinder mild-hybrid Puretech engine employed by a variety of Stellantis models including the new Fiat Grande Panda, which is fitted only with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Fiat says production of the 500 Hybrid is on target to begin at its Mirafiori plant outside Turin in November, ahead of first deliveries across Europe.
Once at full capacity, annual production is expected to be more than 100,000 units, with at least 70 per cent of that due to be exported outside Italy.
Fiat's unprecedented move to retrofit a battery-electric vehicle (EV) with a combustion engine not only gives it a replacement for the 17-year-old Fiat 500 that was discontinued to due EU cybersecurity legislation, but increases the output of its Mirafiori factory amid slow sales of the 500e and its Abarth 500e hot hatch sister model, production of which was paused to meet demand last year.
"500 hybrid offers affordable electrification and iconic style, proof that social relevance is at the core of the brand mission," said Fiat CEO and Stellantis Global CMO, Olivier Francois.
"With the 500 Hybrid, we are strengthening production at Mirafiori to ensure the plant's productivity and meet the demand. Our roots are in Italy and it's no coincidence that the two most iconic Fiat are made here: the Panda in Pomigliano and the 500 in Mirafiori."
Previously, Fiat said it would also invest €100 million (A$173.7m) into future development the 500e, including a redesigned platform to accommodate new battery technologies that aim to improve its affordability.
An upgraded version of the 500e is therefore expected around 2026.
While the Fiat 500 was discontinued in Australia in mid-2024, when further imports of the petrol-powered micro-car ceased, some MY24 stock remains available.
Powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine producing 51kW of power and 102Nm of torque, the Fiat 500 Dolcevita can still be had for $28,900 before on-road costs, while the Abarth 695 remains available from $38,900, powered by a 132kW/250Nm 1.4-litre petrol four.
But when stocks are exhausted, Fiat Australia's only models will be the Ducato van, the Fiat 500e La Prima with an 87kW/220Nm electric motor for $52,500 plus on-roads, and the Abarth 500e with a 134kW/235Nm electric motor, priced from $58,900.
Fiat Australia sold 146 Fiat/Abarth 500/500e vehicles in the first third of this year, down 22 per cent on the same January-April period last year.
MORE: Everything Fiat 500
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
The 2026 Fiat 500 Hybrid has been revealed – with a manual transmission – but the Italian brand's first new-generation petrol-powered city car in 18 years is yet to be confirmed for release in Australia, where the old Fiat 500 was axed last year due to slow sales.
Based on the much newer Fiat 500e electric hatch released in 2023, the first Fiat 500 Hybrid looks identical to the pint-size electric hatch apart from a revised grille (covered in camo wrap on the pre-production vehicles you see here) to direct air to its petrol-electric powertrain.
There's also a capless fuel filler to replace the Fiat 500e's rear-quarter charging port.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
It's unclear exactly which electrified petrol engine will power the new Fiat 500, but it's expected to be the same 1.0-litre three-cylinder mild-hybrid Firefly unit seen in the old Fiat Panda, and overseas versions of the Fiat 500 since 2020.
The appearance of a six-speed manual gear selector in these images rules out the 1.2-litre three-cylinder mild-hybrid Puretech engine employed by a variety of Stellantis models including the new Fiat Grande Panda, which is fitted only with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Fiat says production of the 500 Hybrid is on target to begin at its Mirafiori plant outside Turin in November, ahead of first deliveries across Europe.
Once at full capacity, annual production is expected to be more than 100,000 units, with at least 70 per cent of that due to be exported outside Italy.
Fiat's unprecedented move to retrofit a battery-electric vehicle (EV) with a combustion engine not only gives it a replacement for the 17-year-old Fiat 500 that was discontinued to due EU cybersecurity legislation, but increases the output of its Mirafiori factory amid slow sales of the 500e and its Abarth 500e hot hatch sister model, production of which was paused to meet demand last year.
"500 hybrid offers affordable electrification and iconic style, proof that social relevance is at the core of the brand mission," said Fiat CEO and Stellantis Global CMO, Olivier Francois.
"With the 500 Hybrid, we are strengthening production at Mirafiori to ensure the plant's productivity and meet the demand. Our roots are in Italy and it's no coincidence that the two most iconic Fiat are made here: the Panda in Pomigliano and the 500 in Mirafiori."
Previously, Fiat said it would also invest €100 million (A$173.7m) into future development the 500e, including a redesigned platform to accommodate new battery technologies that aim to improve its affordability.
An upgraded version of the 500e is therefore expected around 2026.
While the Fiat 500 was discontinued in Australia in mid-2024, when further imports of the petrol-powered micro-car ceased, some MY24 stock remains available.
Powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine producing 51kW of power and 102Nm of torque, the Fiat 500 Dolcevita can still be had for $28,900 before on-road costs, while the Abarth 695 remains available from $38,900, powered by a 132kW/250Nm 1.4-litre petrol four.
But when stocks are exhausted, Fiat Australia's only models will be the Ducato van, the Fiat 500e La Prima with an 87kW/220Nm electric motor for $52,500 plus on-roads, and the Abarth 500e with a 134kW/235Nm electric motor, priced from $58,900.
Fiat Australia sold 146 Fiat/Abarth 500/500e vehicles in the first third of this year, down 22 per cent on the same January-April period last year.
MORE: Everything Fiat 500
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
The 2026 Fiat 500 Hybrid has been revealed – with a manual transmission – but the Italian brand's first new-generation petrol-powered city car in 18 years is yet to be confirmed for release in Australia, where the old Fiat 500 was axed last year due to slow sales.
Based on the much newer Fiat 500e electric hatch released in 2023, the first Fiat 500 Hybrid looks identical to the pint-size electric hatch apart from a revised grille (covered in camo wrap on the pre-production vehicles you see here) to direct air to its petrol-electric powertrain.
There's also a capless fuel filler to replace the Fiat 500e's rear-quarter charging port.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
It's unclear exactly which electrified petrol engine will power the new Fiat 500, but it's expected to be the same 1.0-litre three-cylinder mild-hybrid Firefly unit seen in the old Fiat Panda, and overseas versions of the Fiat 500 since 2020.
The appearance of a six-speed manual gear selector in these images rules out the 1.2-litre three-cylinder mild-hybrid Puretech engine employed by a variety of Stellantis models including the new Fiat Grande Panda, which is fitted only with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Fiat says production of the 500 Hybrid is on target to begin at its Mirafiori plant outside Turin in November, ahead of first deliveries across Europe.
Once at full capacity, annual production is expected to be more than 100,000 units, with at least 70 per cent of that due to be exported outside Italy.
Fiat's unprecedented move to retrofit a battery-electric vehicle (EV) with a combustion engine not only gives it a replacement for the 17-year-old Fiat 500 that was discontinued to due EU cybersecurity legislation, but increases the output of its Mirafiori factory amid slow sales of the 500e and its Abarth 500e hot hatch sister model, production of which was paused to meet demand last year.
"500 hybrid offers affordable electrification and iconic style, proof that social relevance is at the core of the brand mission," said Fiat CEO and Stellantis Global CMO, Olivier Francois.
"With the 500 Hybrid, we are strengthening production at Mirafiori to ensure the plant's productivity and meet the demand. Our roots are in Italy and it's no coincidence that the two most iconic Fiat are made here: the Panda in Pomigliano and the 500 in Mirafiori."
Previously, Fiat said it would also invest €100 million (A$173.7m) into future development the 500e, including a redesigned platform to accommodate new battery technologies that aim to improve its affordability.
An upgraded version of the 500e is therefore expected around 2026.
While the Fiat 500 was discontinued in Australia in mid-2024, when further imports of the petrol-powered micro-car ceased, some MY24 stock remains available.
Powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine producing 51kW of power and 102Nm of torque, the Fiat 500 Dolcevita can still be had for $28,900 before on-road costs, while the Abarth 695 remains available from $38,900, powered by a 132kW/250Nm 1.4-litre petrol four.
But when stocks are exhausted, Fiat Australia's only models will be the Ducato van, the Fiat 500e La Prima with an 87kW/220Nm electric motor for $52,500 plus on-roads, and the Abarth 500e with a 134kW/235Nm electric motor, priced from $58,900.
Fiat Australia sold 146 Fiat/Abarth 500/500e vehicles in the first third of this year, down 22 per cent on the same January-April period last year.
MORE: Everything Fiat 500
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Perth Now
6 hours ago
- Perth Now
2025 Honda Civic review
The Honda Civic has been a mainstay of the small car landscape for more than 50 years. 2025 Honda Civic Credit: CarExpert Now, in its 11th generation, it plays a different role for the Japanese brand than it once did, transitioning from a no-frills and affordable entry model into an ultra-efficient alternative to base-level luxury hatchbacks. It's an interesting repositioning for one of Honda's keystone, volume-selling models, and yet it seems entirely logical considering the rising tide of compact SUVs that have taken its place as the default choice for budget-conscious Australian families. So, where does that leave the Civic now? Well, let's find out… The current-generation Honda Civic first launched here in 2022 with a three-variant range that included two high-grade mainstream offerings – with either turbo-petrol or hybrid powertrains – and the flagship, high-performance Type R hot hatch. 2025 Honda Civic Credit: CarExpert While the Type R continues on unchanged, the regular Civic lineup was updated late last year when Honda axed the entry variant in favour of a pair of hybrid-only variants that brought minor visual tweaks to the front bumper design, new-look 18-inch alloy wheels and upgrades to the infotainment and safety systems. Consequently, the entry point has moved further upmarket and the range now kicks off at $49,900 drive-away for the Honda Civic e:HEV L we're testing here, while the flagship LX commands a $6000 premium for its extra features, including full leather interior trim, a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable front seats and more. While the sticker prices might cause a bit of shock, both variants are inclusive of all on-road costs, which pitches the L closer to range-topping rivals like the Mazda 3 G25 Astina ($43,310 plus on-roads), Peugeot 308 GT Hybrid (from $48,990) and the Volkswagen Golf R-Line ($47,990). To see how the Honda Civic lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool There's a lot to like about the Civic's cabin, even though it doesn't present as flashy or particularly modern. 2025 Honda Civic Credit: CarExpert Instead, it gets the fundamentals just right. The overall aesthetic is rather conventional, with a T-shaped relationship between the dashboard and centre console, which features a decent-sized storage binnacle at its base with two USB-C outlets and a 12V power socket, two large cupholders in the centre and a covered bin between the seats. In fact, the only unusual element about the Civic's myriad controls is the push-button gear selector with an indented button to select reverse, and the neat joysticks that poke out of the honeycomb grille to adjust the flow of ventilation from the air vents. Otherwise, it's refreshingly uncomplicated, with a block of easily accessible physical buttons and dials in the centre for the dual-zone climate control system, and it's nice to have a volume knob and buttons for Home and Back on the side of the touchscreen. 2025 Honda Civic Credit: CarExpert 2025 Honda Civic Credit: CarExpert 2025 Honda Civic Credit: CarExpert 2025 Honda Civic Credit: CarExpert Speaking of which, the 9.0-inch colour display might not be as big as many others in the class, but the menu structure is easy to use with large square icons that are clearly labelled, and the inclusion of embedded Google Maps – as well as voice-activated Google Assistant – makes it simple and more familiar to find new destinations and follow instructions. The larger 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster is bright and provides all the essential information in a logical layout, with road speed and power output in conventional dials on either side of a multi-function display in the centre, with two simple strips for fuel and battery levels on the outer edges. The three-spoke steering wheel is the right size too, offers plenty of adjustment in both reach and rake to find the optimum position, and can be heated to take the chill out of early-morning winter commutes, which is nice to have. Plus, the fingertip controls are logically laid out, with audio on the left and cruise control functions – including one-touch access to activate or turn off lane-keeping assistance and set the distance to traffic ahead – on the right. While there's no electric adjustment to the front seats in the L model grade, both the driver and passenger are treated to excellent comfort and support with supple cushioning and firm side bolsters, plus three-stage heating. They don't look fancy, but they are among the best in the business and make it easy to spend hours behind the wheel. 2025 Honda Civic Credit: CarExpert 2025 Honda Civic Credit: CarExpert For those in the back, there is a decent amount of rear legroom and enough space to squeeze three across the bench for short trips. The sloping roofline does impact headroom for taller passengers, particularly when compared to a SUV, but the Civic is well suited to small families. In fact, with 409 litres of cargo capacity in the boot, it offers more room than most other small hatchbacks and even some mid-size soft-roaders. There's even an additional – albeit shallow – underfloor storage area to secure smaller items or separate wet clothes or sports gear. To see how the Honda Civic lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool The Honda Civic e:HEV is powered by a interesting – and more advanced – hybrid powertrain that links a naturally aspirated four-cylinder 2.0-litre direct-injection petrol engine with two electric motors sandwiched within the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). 2025 Honda Civic Credit: CarExpert The petrol engine uses a lean-burning Atkinson cycle to improve fuel-efficiency, while the e-CVT features both an electric motor generator that is primarily designed to recuperate energy under deceleration to recharge the small 1.0kWh lithium ion battery mounted under the rear seats, and another more powerful traction motor on the back of the gearbox that assists the petrol motor when driving. Together, they produce a combined maximum power output of 135kW, which is hardly earth shattering. But, the performance you feel comes from its above-average peak torque figure of 315Nm, which is on tap from almost the moment you touch the throttle pedal. In most situations, the powertrain acts like a regular series-parallel hybrid with the primary electric motor used to get things moving away from a standstill, before the petrol engine chimes in and they work together. The motor/generator can also reverse its flow and provide additional power under heavy acceleration too. However, unlike other systems such as those in a variety of Toyota models, the Honda can also decouple the petrol engine at cruising speeds and run entirely on electricity. Now, because the battery capacity is reasonably small, it can't do this for long durations like a plug-in hybrid would. But it does make a significant improvement to its fuel consumption, particularly around town where Honda claims it has average urban fuel consumption of just 2.0L/100km, and an overall average figure of 4.2L/100km. To see how the Honda Civic lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool How all of that plays out in the real world is almost invisible from behind the wheel. 2025 Honda Civic Credit: CarExpert Pictured: Honda Civic e:HEV LX Sure, you can hear the engine start up when it kicks into life and even more so if you dig deep into the throttle for a fast getaway or when overtaking at highway speeds. But the transition between running on battery power alone and entering full hybrid mode is totally seamless and more refined than most. At low speeds, and especially when navigating tight urban areas or heavy traffic, the Civic drives like an electric car most of the time, accelerating smoothly with a faint whir from the electric motor. The battery discharges quite quickly, but also recoups energy under braking reasonably rapidly when you toggle the paddle shifters for maximum effect of the regenerative braking. Out on the open road, its remarkable how often the engine shuts down for short bursts of zero-emission running, and then seamlessly wakes up again. Not that you'd know if you weren't looking at the power flow meter on the digital dashboard or infotainment screen. 2025 Honda Civic Credit: CarExpert The end result is Honda's e:HEV system is one of the most refined and effective of its type, delivering an effortless, no-fuss driving experience, and the ability to easily match its claimed fuel economy figure in a mix of city and highway driving. That same sentiment can be attributed to the rest of the Civic's driving character. The MacPherson-strut front and multi-link rear suspension is nicely balanced between comfort and confident cornering abilities, and the electric power steering is positive and consistent throughout the arc without feeling overly light or artificially weighted. No, it's not as dynamic as the flagship Type R hot hatch, but the bones that make that car such a brilliant track weapon and consummate all-rounder can definitely be felt even in this most basic model. And it's quiet too, with excellent suppression of road and wind noise entering the cabin, aided by the audio system's Active Noise Control function. To see how the Honda Civic lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool With a price tag that pushes to the edge of luxury car territory, you'd expect a lot from even the entry-level Civic. 2025 Honda Civic Credit: CarExpert 2025 Honda Civic Credit: CarExpert 2025 Honda Civic Credit: CarExpert 2025 Honda Civic Credit: CarExpert The reality is you that Honda has all the basics covered, but there are no surprise delights. 2025 Honda Civic e:HEV L equipment highlights: 18-inch alloy wheels LED headlights LED tail-lights Cloth and leather-accented seats Dual-zone climate control with rear air vents Heated front seats Heated steering wheel Keyless entry with push-button start Power windows 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen Wireless Apple CarPlay Wired Android Auto Google Maps, Google Assistant, Google Play 12-speaker Bose audio system Civic e:HEV LX adds: Wireless phone charging Leather-appointed seats Power-adjustable front seats Panoramic sunroof Ambient interior lighting (front) To see how the Honda Civic lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool The updated Honda Civic retains the maximum five-star ANCAP rating it attracted when it was first introduced in 2022, but now features revisions to improve its comprehensive suite of advanced safety systems. 2022 Honda Civic Euro NCAP test Credit: CarExpert Standard safety equipent includes: 11 airbags Autonomous emergency braking (AEB) Forward collision warning Adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow Traffic Jam Assist Lane departure warning Lane keeping assistance Traffic sign recognition Blind spot warning Rear cross traffic alert Front and rear parking sensors Intelligent speed limiter Similarly to how it drives, Honda has clearly spent considerable time and effort on refining the activation of its safety systems. Where most of these new functions are annoying, intrusive or over zealous in rival cars – especially the more affordable new entrants – the Civic feels as though they only help when needed, as they should. And, even then, they are smoother and less alarming than most, like a gentle guiding hand rather than a binary brute. Part of that can attributed to new camera software in the updated Civic, which now also features Honda Connect – a smartphone app that allows owners to remotely start the engine, activate the climate control and find the location of the vehicle, as well as automatic collision detection, which immediately contacts the Honda Help Centre in the event of an impact and can assist emergency services response. To see how the Honda Civic lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool Honda provides a standard five-year warranty with unlimited kilometres and free roadside assistance across its entire passenger vehicle range for private buyers. 2025 Honda Civic Credit: CarExpert However, if the vehicle is maintained within the authorised Honda Service network and it meets certain criteria at the end of the initial warranty period, owners can be provided with an additional three years of coverage and roadside assistance, extending the duration to eight years. Honda also subsidises the first five annual visits to the service centre at just $199 each. But the minimum mileage is only 10,000km between each service, which is less than some rivals. To see how the Honda Civic e:HEV L lines up against the competition, check out our comparison tool Putting price aside for one second, the Honda Civic e:HEV L is an exceptional example of a modern small car. 2025 Honda Civic Credit: CarExpert It is spacious, comfortable, quiet, ultra efficient, well built, safe as houses, and very nice to drive. For all the car things it does, it is right up there with the best in the business. It isn't very exciting, but it's very, very good. On top of that, it is affordable to run and, with Honda's reputation for reliability, feels like it will last a lifetime, which almost justifies its premium price tag. If you can leap over that hurdle, then the Civic delivers where it matters. Interested in buying a Honda Civic? Get in touch with one of CarExpert's trusted dealers here MORE: Everything Honda Civic Exceptional build quality Seamless, efficient hybrid tech Comfortable, quiet ride High price of entry Basic amenities Small touchscreen Power: 105kW Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded/Electric Economy: 4.2L/100km CO2 Emissions: 96g/km ANCAP Safety Rating: 5
The Advertiser
7 hours ago
- The Advertiser
2025 BYD Atto 2 small electric SUV confirmed for Australia
The 2025 BYD Atto 2 has been confirmed for Australian showrooms, where smallest and most affordable electric SUV offered here by the Chinese automaker so far will arrive in the fourth quarter of this year. BYD Australia – which will take over local distribution of the brand from independent importer EVDirect next month – has announced the compact five-seat Atto 2 electric SUV will be offered here with a single electric powertrain and two model grades. Launched in China in March 2024, the BYD Atto 2 is sold under other names overseas, including Atto 3 Up, Yuan Pro and S1 Pro. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. It will be sold in Australia as the Atto 2 to underline its positioning, in terms of both size and price, below the brand's pioneering Atto 3 electric SUV with which it shares its platform, and will be aimed at rivals including the Kia EV3 and Hyundai Kona Electric. "As an SUV, the Atto 2 is very important," Sajid Hasan, BYD Australia senior product planning manager, told CarExpert. "What we've seen is that there's been a shifting of passenger cars to SUVs. What the hatch segment used to be has flowed into the small SUV segment, and then you got a lot of cross-pollination between the medium SUV segment and light SUV segments." SUVs have accounted for 59.8 per cent of all new vehicle sales so far this year in Australia – not including Tesla and Polestar sales, which are reported separately. Led by the Hyundai Kona, the small SUV segment the Atto 2 will enter for BYD made up the third-largest chunk (6.4 per cent) of the new vehicle market, behind mid-size SUVs and just a few sales behind 4×4 utes. "This small SUV segment being a very large portion of the total market composition, volume-wise, is just an enormous growth opportunity for us to grow our brand and our volume," Mr Hasan said. While pricing is yet to be confirmed, the Atto 2 should be cheaper than the mid-size Atto 3, which starts from $39,990 before on-road costs – making it considerably more affordable than the new Kia EV3's $48,990 starting price. The Hyundai Kona Electric is priced from $54,000 before on-road costs. In China, the Atto 2 starts at ¥96,800 (A$20,835), which is less than the BYD Dolphin hatchback (¥99,800 or A$21,480) that's currently priced from $29,990 drive-away in Australia. Based on its specs in China – where it is called the BYD Yuan Up – the Atto 2 measures 4310mm long, 1830mm wide and 1675mm high, making it 145mm shorter than the Atto 3. However, it's larger than light SUVs such as the Mazda CX-3 and Nissan Qashqai – and the electric Jeep Avenger – but not as big as Australia's most popular SUVs, like the mid-size Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5. Indeed, the Atto 2 has a 400-litre boot, which expands to 1370L of space with the second row folded. In China, the Atto 2 is offered with a single electric motor mounted to the front axle, with the choice of 70kW and 130kW power outputs. BYD Australia confirmed the 130kW/290Nm version will be standard here, and available in both 'Essential' and 'Premium' trim grades when it arrives Down Under. The Australian-spec Atto 2 will also have a 51.13kWh Lithium Ion Phosphate (LFP) 'Blade' battery and, while no driving range has been confirmed, it's larger than the 32kWh and 45.1kWh battery capacities available overseas, which enable a WLTP range of 312km. BYD Australia has confirmed few other specs, but the Atto 2 will have flush door-handles and a panoramic sunroof as standard, outside a cabin including synthetic leather seat trim and 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster. Essential versions will feature a 10.1-inch rotating infotainment touchscreen, while the Premium grade will gain a 12.8-inch screen and a 360-degree surround camera. BYD has ambitious expansion plans, including a goal of exports accounting for half its global sales by 2030, which would be a significant achievement given the brand is not present in the US, the world's second largest auto market behind China. The brand was officially launched in Australia in 2022 under EVDirect, whose chief told CarExpert as recently as January this year that BYD plans to outsell long-time local market leader Toyota by 2027. EVDirect previously said BYD had ambitious plans to sell 100,000 vehicles per annum in Australia by 2026, by doubling its sales and launching up to five new models annually. Last year BYD sold 20,458 vehicles in Australia, where Toyota sold 241,296. MORE: Everything BYD Content originally sourced from: The 2025 BYD Atto 2 has been confirmed for Australian showrooms, where smallest and most affordable electric SUV offered here by the Chinese automaker so far will arrive in the fourth quarter of this year. BYD Australia – which will take over local distribution of the brand from independent importer EVDirect next month – has announced the compact five-seat Atto 2 electric SUV will be offered here with a single electric powertrain and two model grades. Launched in China in March 2024, the BYD Atto 2 is sold under other names overseas, including Atto 3 Up, Yuan Pro and S1 Pro. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. It will be sold in Australia as the Atto 2 to underline its positioning, in terms of both size and price, below the brand's pioneering Atto 3 electric SUV with which it shares its platform, and will be aimed at rivals including the Kia EV3 and Hyundai Kona Electric. "As an SUV, the Atto 2 is very important," Sajid Hasan, BYD Australia senior product planning manager, told CarExpert. "What we've seen is that there's been a shifting of passenger cars to SUVs. What the hatch segment used to be has flowed into the small SUV segment, and then you got a lot of cross-pollination between the medium SUV segment and light SUV segments." SUVs have accounted for 59.8 per cent of all new vehicle sales so far this year in Australia – not including Tesla and Polestar sales, which are reported separately. Led by the Hyundai Kona, the small SUV segment the Atto 2 will enter for BYD made up the third-largest chunk (6.4 per cent) of the new vehicle market, behind mid-size SUVs and just a few sales behind 4×4 utes. "This small SUV segment being a very large portion of the total market composition, volume-wise, is just an enormous growth opportunity for us to grow our brand and our volume," Mr Hasan said. While pricing is yet to be confirmed, the Atto 2 should be cheaper than the mid-size Atto 3, which starts from $39,990 before on-road costs – making it considerably more affordable than the new Kia EV3's $48,990 starting price. The Hyundai Kona Electric is priced from $54,000 before on-road costs. In China, the Atto 2 starts at ¥96,800 (A$20,835), which is less than the BYD Dolphin hatchback (¥99,800 or A$21,480) that's currently priced from $29,990 drive-away in Australia. Based on its specs in China – where it is called the BYD Yuan Up – the Atto 2 measures 4310mm long, 1830mm wide and 1675mm high, making it 145mm shorter than the Atto 3. However, it's larger than light SUVs such as the Mazda CX-3 and Nissan Qashqai – and the electric Jeep Avenger – but not as big as Australia's most popular SUVs, like the mid-size Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5. Indeed, the Atto 2 has a 400-litre boot, which expands to 1370L of space with the second row folded. In China, the Atto 2 is offered with a single electric motor mounted to the front axle, with the choice of 70kW and 130kW power outputs. BYD Australia confirmed the 130kW/290Nm version will be standard here, and available in both 'Essential' and 'Premium' trim grades when it arrives Down Under. The Australian-spec Atto 2 will also have a 51.13kWh Lithium Ion Phosphate (LFP) 'Blade' battery and, while no driving range has been confirmed, it's larger than the 32kWh and 45.1kWh battery capacities available overseas, which enable a WLTP range of 312km. BYD Australia has confirmed few other specs, but the Atto 2 will have flush door-handles and a panoramic sunroof as standard, outside a cabin including synthetic leather seat trim and 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster. Essential versions will feature a 10.1-inch rotating infotainment touchscreen, while the Premium grade will gain a 12.8-inch screen and a 360-degree surround camera. BYD has ambitious expansion plans, including a goal of exports accounting for half its global sales by 2030, which would be a significant achievement given the brand is not present in the US, the world's second largest auto market behind China. The brand was officially launched in Australia in 2022 under EVDirect, whose chief told CarExpert as recently as January this year that BYD plans to outsell long-time local market leader Toyota by 2027. EVDirect previously said BYD had ambitious plans to sell 100,000 vehicles per annum in Australia by 2026, by doubling its sales and launching up to five new models annually. Last year BYD sold 20,458 vehicles in Australia, where Toyota sold 241,296. MORE: Everything BYD Content originally sourced from: The 2025 BYD Atto 2 has been confirmed for Australian showrooms, where smallest and most affordable electric SUV offered here by the Chinese automaker so far will arrive in the fourth quarter of this year. BYD Australia – which will take over local distribution of the brand from independent importer EVDirect next month – has announced the compact five-seat Atto 2 electric SUV will be offered here with a single electric powertrain and two model grades. Launched in China in March 2024, the BYD Atto 2 is sold under other names overseas, including Atto 3 Up, Yuan Pro and S1 Pro. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. It will be sold in Australia as the Atto 2 to underline its positioning, in terms of both size and price, below the brand's pioneering Atto 3 electric SUV with which it shares its platform, and will be aimed at rivals including the Kia EV3 and Hyundai Kona Electric. "As an SUV, the Atto 2 is very important," Sajid Hasan, BYD Australia senior product planning manager, told CarExpert. "What we've seen is that there's been a shifting of passenger cars to SUVs. What the hatch segment used to be has flowed into the small SUV segment, and then you got a lot of cross-pollination between the medium SUV segment and light SUV segments." SUVs have accounted for 59.8 per cent of all new vehicle sales so far this year in Australia – not including Tesla and Polestar sales, which are reported separately. Led by the Hyundai Kona, the small SUV segment the Atto 2 will enter for BYD made up the third-largest chunk (6.4 per cent) of the new vehicle market, behind mid-size SUVs and just a few sales behind 4×4 utes. "This small SUV segment being a very large portion of the total market composition, volume-wise, is just an enormous growth opportunity for us to grow our brand and our volume," Mr Hasan said. While pricing is yet to be confirmed, the Atto 2 should be cheaper than the mid-size Atto 3, which starts from $39,990 before on-road costs – making it considerably more affordable than the new Kia EV3's $48,990 starting price. The Hyundai Kona Electric is priced from $54,000 before on-road costs. In China, the Atto 2 starts at ¥96,800 (A$20,835), which is less than the BYD Dolphin hatchback (¥99,800 or A$21,480) that's currently priced from $29,990 drive-away in Australia. Based on its specs in China – where it is called the BYD Yuan Up – the Atto 2 measures 4310mm long, 1830mm wide and 1675mm high, making it 145mm shorter than the Atto 3. However, it's larger than light SUVs such as the Mazda CX-3 and Nissan Qashqai – and the electric Jeep Avenger – but not as big as Australia's most popular SUVs, like the mid-size Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5. Indeed, the Atto 2 has a 400-litre boot, which expands to 1370L of space with the second row folded. In China, the Atto 2 is offered with a single electric motor mounted to the front axle, with the choice of 70kW and 130kW power outputs. BYD Australia confirmed the 130kW/290Nm version will be standard here, and available in both 'Essential' and 'Premium' trim grades when it arrives Down Under. The Australian-spec Atto 2 will also have a 51.13kWh Lithium Ion Phosphate (LFP) 'Blade' battery and, while no driving range has been confirmed, it's larger than the 32kWh and 45.1kWh battery capacities available overseas, which enable a WLTP range of 312km. BYD Australia has confirmed few other specs, but the Atto 2 will have flush door-handles and a panoramic sunroof as standard, outside a cabin including synthetic leather seat trim and 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster. Essential versions will feature a 10.1-inch rotating infotainment touchscreen, while the Premium grade will gain a 12.8-inch screen and a 360-degree surround camera. BYD has ambitious expansion plans, including a goal of exports accounting for half its global sales by 2030, which would be a significant achievement given the brand is not present in the US, the world's second largest auto market behind China. The brand was officially launched in Australia in 2022 under EVDirect, whose chief told CarExpert as recently as January this year that BYD plans to outsell long-time local market leader Toyota by 2027. EVDirect previously said BYD had ambitious plans to sell 100,000 vehicles per annum in Australia by 2026, by doubling its sales and launching up to five new models annually. Last year BYD sold 20,458 vehicles in Australia, where Toyota sold 241,296. MORE: Everything BYD Content originally sourced from: The 2025 BYD Atto 2 has been confirmed for Australian showrooms, where smallest and most affordable electric SUV offered here by the Chinese automaker so far will arrive in the fourth quarter of this year. BYD Australia – which will take over local distribution of the brand from independent importer EVDirect next month – has announced the compact five-seat Atto 2 electric SUV will be offered here with a single electric powertrain and two model grades. Launched in China in March 2024, the BYD Atto 2 is sold under other names overseas, including Atto 3 Up, Yuan Pro and S1 Pro. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. It will be sold in Australia as the Atto 2 to underline its positioning, in terms of both size and price, below the brand's pioneering Atto 3 electric SUV with which it shares its platform, and will be aimed at rivals including the Kia EV3 and Hyundai Kona Electric. "As an SUV, the Atto 2 is very important," Sajid Hasan, BYD Australia senior product planning manager, told CarExpert. "What we've seen is that there's been a shifting of passenger cars to SUVs. What the hatch segment used to be has flowed into the small SUV segment, and then you got a lot of cross-pollination between the medium SUV segment and light SUV segments." SUVs have accounted for 59.8 per cent of all new vehicle sales so far this year in Australia – not including Tesla and Polestar sales, which are reported separately. Led by the Hyundai Kona, the small SUV segment the Atto 2 will enter for BYD made up the third-largest chunk (6.4 per cent) of the new vehicle market, behind mid-size SUVs and just a few sales behind 4×4 utes. "This small SUV segment being a very large portion of the total market composition, volume-wise, is just an enormous growth opportunity for us to grow our brand and our volume," Mr Hasan said. While pricing is yet to be confirmed, the Atto 2 should be cheaper than the mid-size Atto 3, which starts from $39,990 before on-road costs – making it considerably more affordable than the new Kia EV3's $48,990 starting price. The Hyundai Kona Electric is priced from $54,000 before on-road costs. In China, the Atto 2 starts at ¥96,800 (A$20,835), which is less than the BYD Dolphin hatchback (¥99,800 or A$21,480) that's currently priced from $29,990 drive-away in Australia. Based on its specs in China – where it is called the BYD Yuan Up – the Atto 2 measures 4310mm long, 1830mm wide and 1675mm high, making it 145mm shorter than the Atto 3. However, it's larger than light SUVs such as the Mazda CX-3 and Nissan Qashqai – and the electric Jeep Avenger – but not as big as Australia's most popular SUVs, like the mid-size Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5. Indeed, the Atto 2 has a 400-litre boot, which expands to 1370L of space with the second row folded. In China, the Atto 2 is offered with a single electric motor mounted to the front axle, with the choice of 70kW and 130kW power outputs. BYD Australia confirmed the 130kW/290Nm version will be standard here, and available in both 'Essential' and 'Premium' trim grades when it arrives Down Under. The Australian-spec Atto 2 will also have a 51.13kWh Lithium Ion Phosphate (LFP) 'Blade' battery and, while no driving range has been confirmed, it's larger than the 32kWh and 45.1kWh battery capacities available overseas, which enable a WLTP range of 312km. BYD Australia has confirmed few other specs, but the Atto 2 will have flush door-handles and a panoramic sunroof as standard, outside a cabin including synthetic leather seat trim and 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster. Essential versions will feature a 10.1-inch rotating infotainment touchscreen, while the Premium grade will gain a 12.8-inch screen and a 360-degree surround camera. BYD has ambitious expansion plans, including a goal of exports accounting for half its global sales by 2030, which would be a significant achievement given the brand is not present in the US, the world's second largest auto market behind China. The brand was officially launched in Australia in 2022 under EVDirect, whose chief told CarExpert as recently as January this year that BYD plans to outsell long-time local market leader Toyota by 2027. EVDirect previously said BYD had ambitious plans to sell 100,000 vehicles per annum in Australia by 2026, by doubling its sales and launching up to five new models annually. Last year BYD sold 20,458 vehicles in Australia, where Toyota sold 241,296. MORE: Everything BYD Content originally sourced from:
The Advertiser
7 hours ago
- The Advertiser
2025 BYD Sealion 8 will be Chinese brand's first seven-seat SUV in Australia
The BYD Sealion 8 has been confirmed for Australian showrooms with a choice of two plug-in hybrid powertrains, and the brand's first three-row large SUV is to arrive here in the first quarter of 2026 (January-March). The Sealion 8 joins the BYD Atto 2 small SUV – also confirmed for Australia today – as the first new models confirmed for this market since the Chinese automaker announced it will take over local distribution of the brand on July 1. Pricing and equipment levels are yet to be announced for the first seven-seat BYD to be sold here, where it will rival existing large plug-in hybrid SUVs including the Kia Sorento PHEV and Mazda CX-80 PHEV. The Sealion 8 will also compete with the Chery Tiggo 9, which is due here in September, and MG QS seven-seat SUV – if MG decides to import the PHEV version in addition to pure petrol power. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Despite its size and seat count, the Sealion 8 is not expected to take over from the five-seat BYD Sealion 7 mid-size electric SUV (priced from $63,990 plus on-road costs) as the most expensive BYD offered in Australia. Sitting on the brand's new 5.0 platform, the Sealion 8's exterior design will introduce the brand's newer 'Loong Face' [sic] front-end styling to Australians, replacing the 'Dragon Face' theme seen on the pioneering BYD Atto 3 medium SUV and the BYD Seal mid-size sedan. The BYD Sealion 8 – sold as the BYD Tang L in China – rivals the Toyota Kluger in terms of size, measuring 5040mm long, 1996mm wide and 1760mm high. Its wheelbase is 2950mm – 100mm longer than a Kluger's and 244mm longer than the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV's. There's also more boot space, with Chinese-market specs claiming 675 litres of cargo capacity, expanding to 960L with the third-row seats folded and 1960L behind the front seats. It's offered in six- and seven-seat configurations in China, but BYD Australia has confirmed the Sealion 8 will be sold here as a seven-seater in a traditional 2+3+2 layout. Two PHEV powertrains will be offered in Australia from launch, with the standard Sealion 8 using a 'DM-i' set-up, which sees a 110kW/220Nm 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine and a single front-axle electric motor producing 200kW/315Nm. The Sealion 8 will be the first BYD launched here with its 'DM-P' – which stands for 'Dual Mode Performance' – plug-in hybrid powertrain, which uses the same petrol engine but adds a second 141kW/360Nm rear-axle motor in a dual-motor all-wheel drive setup producing a combined 400kW/670Nm. Despite being a family-focused SUV, the Sealion 8 PHEV DM-P comes with an official 0-100km/h acceleration claim of just 4.9 seconds where the DM-I manages it in 8.6 seconds. Official China-market fuel consumption is 5.6L/100km, while a 35.6kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) 'Blade' battery provides an electric-only range of 150km under the lenient CLTC (China Light Vehicle Test Cycle) test standard. The entry-level Sealion 8 DM-I will use a 19kWh Blade battery, but will share the DM-P's 71kW DC (Direct Current) fast-charging capability enabling a 30 to 80 per cent battery top-up in 30 minutes. The Sealion 8 also features BYD's DiPilot 300 autonomous driving suite, which employs one LiDar, five radars, 12 ultrasonic sensors and 12 cameras to operate its adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping, and lane-centering systems, among other driver assist features. The cabin includes a 15.6-inch touchscreen which, like in other BYDs sold in Australia, can be rotated between landscape and portrait orientations, plus a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and head-up display. Leather-trimmed seats are standard in Chinese versions, and Australian vehicles are also expected – but not confirmed – to come standard with leather upholstery. China-market versions also offer a panoramic glass roof measuring 2.39m – covering all three rows – as well as 11 airbags and a 21-speaker surround-sound stereo in top-spec versions. While the plug-in hybrid Shark 6 dual-cab ute is responsible for the lion's share of BYD's sales growth so far in Australia, significant contributions from the Sealion 6 PHEV and Sealion 7 EV five-seat SUVs have boosted the brand's ongoing sales momentum. All three models have been launched here in the last 11 months, with slower sales of the battery-electric BYD Dolphin hatchback, Seal mid-size sedan and Atto 3 medium SUV not stopping the brand from posting a near-95 per cent year-to-date sales increase. Content originally sourced from: The BYD Sealion 8 has been confirmed for Australian showrooms with a choice of two plug-in hybrid powertrains, and the brand's first three-row large SUV is to arrive here in the first quarter of 2026 (January-March). The Sealion 8 joins the BYD Atto 2 small SUV – also confirmed for Australia today – as the first new models confirmed for this market since the Chinese automaker announced it will take over local distribution of the brand on July 1. Pricing and equipment levels are yet to be announced for the first seven-seat BYD to be sold here, where it will rival existing large plug-in hybrid SUVs including the Kia Sorento PHEV and Mazda CX-80 PHEV. The Sealion 8 will also compete with the Chery Tiggo 9, which is due here in September, and MG QS seven-seat SUV – if MG decides to import the PHEV version in addition to pure petrol power. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Despite its size and seat count, the Sealion 8 is not expected to take over from the five-seat BYD Sealion 7 mid-size electric SUV (priced from $63,990 plus on-road costs) as the most expensive BYD offered in Australia. Sitting on the brand's new 5.0 platform, the Sealion 8's exterior design will introduce the brand's newer 'Loong Face' [sic] front-end styling to Australians, replacing the 'Dragon Face' theme seen on the pioneering BYD Atto 3 medium SUV and the BYD Seal mid-size sedan. The BYD Sealion 8 – sold as the BYD Tang L in China – rivals the Toyota Kluger in terms of size, measuring 5040mm long, 1996mm wide and 1760mm high. Its wheelbase is 2950mm – 100mm longer than a Kluger's and 244mm longer than the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV's. There's also more boot space, with Chinese-market specs claiming 675 litres of cargo capacity, expanding to 960L with the third-row seats folded and 1960L behind the front seats. It's offered in six- and seven-seat configurations in China, but BYD Australia has confirmed the Sealion 8 will be sold here as a seven-seater in a traditional 2+3+2 layout. Two PHEV powertrains will be offered in Australia from launch, with the standard Sealion 8 using a 'DM-i' set-up, which sees a 110kW/220Nm 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine and a single front-axle electric motor producing 200kW/315Nm. The Sealion 8 will be the first BYD launched here with its 'DM-P' – which stands for 'Dual Mode Performance' – plug-in hybrid powertrain, which uses the same petrol engine but adds a second 141kW/360Nm rear-axle motor in a dual-motor all-wheel drive setup producing a combined 400kW/670Nm. Despite being a family-focused SUV, the Sealion 8 PHEV DM-P comes with an official 0-100km/h acceleration claim of just 4.9 seconds where the DM-I manages it in 8.6 seconds. Official China-market fuel consumption is 5.6L/100km, while a 35.6kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) 'Blade' battery provides an electric-only range of 150km under the lenient CLTC (China Light Vehicle Test Cycle) test standard. The entry-level Sealion 8 DM-I will use a 19kWh Blade battery, but will share the DM-P's 71kW DC (Direct Current) fast-charging capability enabling a 30 to 80 per cent battery top-up in 30 minutes. The Sealion 8 also features BYD's DiPilot 300 autonomous driving suite, which employs one LiDar, five radars, 12 ultrasonic sensors and 12 cameras to operate its adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping, and lane-centering systems, among other driver assist features. The cabin includes a 15.6-inch touchscreen which, like in other BYDs sold in Australia, can be rotated between landscape and portrait orientations, plus a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and head-up display. Leather-trimmed seats are standard in Chinese versions, and Australian vehicles are also expected – but not confirmed – to come standard with leather upholstery. China-market versions also offer a panoramic glass roof measuring 2.39m – covering all three rows – as well as 11 airbags and a 21-speaker surround-sound stereo in top-spec versions. While the plug-in hybrid Shark 6 dual-cab ute is responsible for the lion's share of BYD's sales growth so far in Australia, significant contributions from the Sealion 6 PHEV and Sealion 7 EV five-seat SUVs have boosted the brand's ongoing sales momentum. All three models have been launched here in the last 11 months, with slower sales of the battery-electric BYD Dolphin hatchback, Seal mid-size sedan and Atto 3 medium SUV not stopping the brand from posting a near-95 per cent year-to-date sales increase. Content originally sourced from: The BYD Sealion 8 has been confirmed for Australian showrooms with a choice of two plug-in hybrid powertrains, and the brand's first three-row large SUV is to arrive here in the first quarter of 2026 (January-March). The Sealion 8 joins the BYD Atto 2 small SUV – also confirmed for Australia today – as the first new models confirmed for this market since the Chinese automaker announced it will take over local distribution of the brand on July 1. Pricing and equipment levels are yet to be announced for the first seven-seat BYD to be sold here, where it will rival existing large plug-in hybrid SUVs including the Kia Sorento PHEV and Mazda CX-80 PHEV. The Sealion 8 will also compete with the Chery Tiggo 9, which is due here in September, and MG QS seven-seat SUV – if MG decides to import the PHEV version in addition to pure petrol power. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Despite its size and seat count, the Sealion 8 is not expected to take over from the five-seat BYD Sealion 7 mid-size electric SUV (priced from $63,990 plus on-road costs) as the most expensive BYD offered in Australia. Sitting on the brand's new 5.0 platform, the Sealion 8's exterior design will introduce the brand's newer 'Loong Face' [sic] front-end styling to Australians, replacing the 'Dragon Face' theme seen on the pioneering BYD Atto 3 medium SUV and the BYD Seal mid-size sedan. The BYD Sealion 8 – sold as the BYD Tang L in China – rivals the Toyota Kluger in terms of size, measuring 5040mm long, 1996mm wide and 1760mm high. Its wheelbase is 2950mm – 100mm longer than a Kluger's and 244mm longer than the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV's. There's also more boot space, with Chinese-market specs claiming 675 litres of cargo capacity, expanding to 960L with the third-row seats folded and 1960L behind the front seats. It's offered in six- and seven-seat configurations in China, but BYD Australia has confirmed the Sealion 8 will be sold here as a seven-seater in a traditional 2+3+2 layout. Two PHEV powertrains will be offered in Australia from launch, with the standard Sealion 8 using a 'DM-i' set-up, which sees a 110kW/220Nm 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine and a single front-axle electric motor producing 200kW/315Nm. The Sealion 8 will be the first BYD launched here with its 'DM-P' – which stands for 'Dual Mode Performance' – plug-in hybrid powertrain, which uses the same petrol engine but adds a second 141kW/360Nm rear-axle motor in a dual-motor all-wheel drive setup producing a combined 400kW/670Nm. Despite being a family-focused SUV, the Sealion 8 PHEV DM-P comes with an official 0-100km/h acceleration claim of just 4.9 seconds where the DM-I manages it in 8.6 seconds. Official China-market fuel consumption is 5.6L/100km, while a 35.6kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) 'Blade' battery provides an electric-only range of 150km under the lenient CLTC (China Light Vehicle Test Cycle) test standard. The entry-level Sealion 8 DM-I will use a 19kWh Blade battery, but will share the DM-P's 71kW DC (Direct Current) fast-charging capability enabling a 30 to 80 per cent battery top-up in 30 minutes. The Sealion 8 also features BYD's DiPilot 300 autonomous driving suite, which employs one LiDar, five radars, 12 ultrasonic sensors and 12 cameras to operate its adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping, and lane-centering systems, among other driver assist features. The cabin includes a 15.6-inch touchscreen which, like in other BYDs sold in Australia, can be rotated between landscape and portrait orientations, plus a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and head-up display. Leather-trimmed seats are standard in Chinese versions, and Australian vehicles are also expected – but not confirmed – to come standard with leather upholstery. China-market versions also offer a panoramic glass roof measuring 2.39m – covering all three rows – as well as 11 airbags and a 21-speaker surround-sound stereo in top-spec versions. While the plug-in hybrid Shark 6 dual-cab ute is responsible for the lion's share of BYD's sales growth so far in Australia, significant contributions from the Sealion 6 PHEV and Sealion 7 EV five-seat SUVs have boosted the brand's ongoing sales momentum. All three models have been launched here in the last 11 months, with slower sales of the battery-electric BYD Dolphin hatchback, Seal mid-size sedan and Atto 3 medium SUV not stopping the brand from posting a near-95 per cent year-to-date sales increase. Content originally sourced from: The BYD Sealion 8 has been confirmed for Australian showrooms with a choice of two plug-in hybrid powertrains, and the brand's first three-row large SUV is to arrive here in the first quarter of 2026 (January-March). The Sealion 8 joins the BYD Atto 2 small SUV – also confirmed for Australia today – as the first new models confirmed for this market since the Chinese automaker announced it will take over local distribution of the brand on July 1. Pricing and equipment levels are yet to be announced for the first seven-seat BYD to be sold here, where it will rival existing large plug-in hybrid SUVs including the Kia Sorento PHEV and Mazda CX-80 PHEV. The Sealion 8 will also compete with the Chery Tiggo 9, which is due here in September, and MG QS seven-seat SUV – if MG decides to import the PHEV version in addition to pure petrol power. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Despite its size and seat count, the Sealion 8 is not expected to take over from the five-seat BYD Sealion 7 mid-size electric SUV (priced from $63,990 plus on-road costs) as the most expensive BYD offered in Australia. Sitting on the brand's new 5.0 platform, the Sealion 8's exterior design will introduce the brand's newer 'Loong Face' [sic] front-end styling to Australians, replacing the 'Dragon Face' theme seen on the pioneering BYD Atto 3 medium SUV and the BYD Seal mid-size sedan. The BYD Sealion 8 – sold as the BYD Tang L in China – rivals the Toyota Kluger in terms of size, measuring 5040mm long, 1996mm wide and 1760mm high. Its wheelbase is 2950mm – 100mm longer than a Kluger's and 244mm longer than the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV's. There's also more boot space, with Chinese-market specs claiming 675 litres of cargo capacity, expanding to 960L with the third-row seats folded and 1960L behind the front seats. It's offered in six- and seven-seat configurations in China, but BYD Australia has confirmed the Sealion 8 will be sold here as a seven-seater in a traditional 2+3+2 layout. Two PHEV powertrains will be offered in Australia from launch, with the standard Sealion 8 using a 'DM-i' set-up, which sees a 110kW/220Nm 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine and a single front-axle electric motor producing 200kW/315Nm. The Sealion 8 will be the first BYD launched here with its 'DM-P' – which stands for 'Dual Mode Performance' – plug-in hybrid powertrain, which uses the same petrol engine but adds a second 141kW/360Nm rear-axle motor in a dual-motor all-wheel drive setup producing a combined 400kW/670Nm. Despite being a family-focused SUV, the Sealion 8 PHEV DM-P comes with an official 0-100km/h acceleration claim of just 4.9 seconds where the DM-I manages it in 8.6 seconds. Official China-market fuel consumption is 5.6L/100km, while a 35.6kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) 'Blade' battery provides an electric-only range of 150km under the lenient CLTC (China Light Vehicle Test Cycle) test standard. The entry-level Sealion 8 DM-I will use a 19kWh Blade battery, but will share the DM-P's 71kW DC (Direct Current) fast-charging capability enabling a 30 to 80 per cent battery top-up in 30 minutes. The Sealion 8 also features BYD's DiPilot 300 autonomous driving suite, which employs one LiDar, five radars, 12 ultrasonic sensors and 12 cameras to operate its adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping, and lane-centering systems, among other driver assist features. The cabin includes a 15.6-inch touchscreen which, like in other BYDs sold in Australia, can be rotated between landscape and portrait orientations, plus a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and head-up display. Leather-trimmed seats are standard in Chinese versions, and Australian vehicles are also expected – but not confirmed – to come standard with leather upholstery. China-market versions also offer a panoramic glass roof measuring 2.39m – covering all three rows – as well as 11 airbags and a 21-speaker surround-sound stereo in top-spec versions. While the plug-in hybrid Shark 6 dual-cab ute is responsible for the lion's share of BYD's sales growth so far in Australia, significant contributions from the Sealion 6 PHEV and Sealion 7 EV five-seat SUVs have boosted the brand's ongoing sales momentum. All three models have been launched here in the last 11 months, with slower sales of the battery-electric BYD Dolphin hatchback, Seal mid-size sedan and Atto 3 medium SUV not stopping the brand from posting a near-95 per cent year-to-date sales increase. Content originally sourced from:
