BYD SEAL U DM-i trim levels explained
Discover the full list of BYD SEAL U trims available in the UK
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The BYD SEAL U DM-i is one of the few plug-in hybrid (PHEV) BYDs you can buy in the UK, but which spec should you buy yours in?
There are three BYD SEAL U trim levels on offer, and we go into depth for each one to help you choose which is right for you.
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Full BYD SEAL U trim lineup
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BYD SEAL U DM-i Boost
Boost is the entry point into BYD SEAL U ownership, offering the cheapest price but without compromising on tech and features.
Power comes from a 1.5-litre petrol engine that’s mated to an 18.3kWh battery good for 50 miles of electric-only range.
On the inside, it gets what all BYD SEAL U models have: a 15.6-inch rotating central touchscreen, panoramic sunroof, a 10-speaker sound system and full vegan leather interior (black in all trims).
Plus, some rather stylish 19-inch alloy wheels to complete the look and come as standard on all models.
BYD SEAL U DM-i Comfort
The mid-spec Comfort trims get everything the Boost has, plus a larger 26.6kWh battery that’s capable of 76 miles on one charge – the best of the three trims.
And like every other SEAL U model, the Comfort is available in a range of colours, such as: Time Grey, Sky Blue, Snow White and Obsidian Black.
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BYD SEAL U DM-i Design
Step up to the Design trim, and this is where you unlock some serious performance stats.
While battery size drops back to 18.3kWh, power ups to 324hp for a 0-62mph time of 5.9 seconds, aided by its all-wheel drive (AWD) system. Range reduces to 43 miles due to the added weight and power.
Design also adds two more driving modes: Sand and Mud, and Vehicle-to-load (V2L) charging capabilities, meaning you can power anything from a lawnmower to a kettle using your car.
BYD SEAL U Boost vs. Comfort
When comparing Boost and Comfort, the biggest differences come down to battery size, electric range and features.
Battery & range: Boost uses an 18.3 kWh battery for 50 miles of electric range, while Comfort upgrades to a 26.6 kWh pack for 76 miles.
Performance: Both trims share the same 1.5-litre petrol engine and single electric motor producing 220hp.
Features: Boost includes LED headlights, 19-inch alloys, vegan leather seats and a rotating 15.6″ touchscreen. Comfort adds extras like ambient lighting, a head-up display, wireless charging and rain-sensing wipers.
Price: There's roughly a £2,000 difference between the Boost and Comfort trims.
BYD SEAL U Comfort vs. Design
Comfort and Design share the larger battery but differ in performance and capability.
Battery & range: Comfort offers 76 miles of range, whereas Design drops to 43 miles.
Performance: Comfort is front-wheel drive (FWD) with 220hp. Design adds a second motor for AWD and boosts power to 324hp, slashing its 0-62 mph time to 5.9 s.
Driving modes: Design introduces off-road modes like Sand and Mud for more adventurous drivers, or those tackling harsh winter/desert conditions.
Price: There's roughly a £5,000 difference between the Comfort and Design.
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BYD Seal U Boost vs. Design
This is the biggest gap in the lineup.
Battery & range: Boost offers 50 miles of EV range; Design offers 43 miles.
Performance: Boost is FWD with 220hp, and Design has AWD and 324hp for sports-car-like acceleration.
Price: There's around a £7,000 price difference between the entry-level Boost and top-spec Design.
What’s the best BYD SEAL U trim?
Each trim appeals to different drivers:
Boost: Budget-friendly, solid tech and a 50-mile EV range – ideal for commuters.
Comfort: Best balance of price, range and luxury features – perfect for families and daily drivers.
Design: High-performance AWD, off-road modes and top-tier power – suited for enthusiasts and mixed-terrain driving.
Verdict:
Choose Boost for value, Comfort for versatility and Design for performance and capability.
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Discover BYD cars at cinch
If you’re ready to dive into BYD ownership, check out our range of new BYD cars for sale on cinch.
From a plug-in hybrid like the SEAL U to a fully electric model like the SEALION 7 or Dolphin SURF – there’s a BYD for everyone.