BYD Seal vs Tesla Model 3: which is better?
Compare the BYD SEAL vs. Tesla Model 3 in terms of driving, styling, tech, practicality, reliability and more to find out which electric saloon is best for you
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Tesla Model 3 vs. BYD SEAL
Choosing between the BYD SEAL vs. Tesla Model 3 is one of electric motoring’s toughest choices.
They’re both class-leading electric saloons with huge performance, range and tech, but picking which one is right for you will ensure you’re happy for years.
While the Model 3 has been the poster child of affordable, premium electric motoring, there is a relative newcomer in town in the shape of a SEAL, and it’s just as worth your money.
Our guide will answer:
Is the BYD Seal or Tesla Model 3 better to drive?
Which car has the better styling?
Does the BYD Seal or Tesla Model 3 have better tech?
Is the Seal or Model 3 more practical?
Is the BYD Seal or Tesla Model 3 more reliable?
What are the BYD Seal vs Tesla Model 3 dimensions?
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BYD Seal vs. Tesla Model 3: what are they like to drive?
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The Tesla Model 3 has made a name for itself as being extremely quick in any guise – even the slowest will get to 62mph in a little over six seconds, with the fastest more than halving that.
If you’re into performance, the Tesla Model 3 is praised for its stiff ride and rapid acceleration. But, if comfort is more your style, the BYD SEAL has a more supple ride for softening bumps out around town.
Don’t think you’ll have to compromise on acceleration though – while the SEAL isn’t quite as quick as the Model 3 on paper, it certainly feels it.
BYD Seal vs. Tesla Model 3: styling
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Teslas are renowned for their minimalism, and both generations of the Model 3 have very simplistic designs. So, if you’re the type of person who needs the latest and greatest tech, this is probably the one for you.
In comparison, the BYD SEAL has a lot more visual flair in terms of body contours and aerodynamic cutouts, which makes it look far more conventional if this is your first foray into the world of electric motoring.
BYD Seal vs. Tesla Model 3: interior and technology
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The Tesla Model 3’s interior is the epitome of minimalism – apart from one large touchscreen infotainment system in the centre, there’s little else to talk about. Even the air vents are disguised in the sleek design.
First-generation Model 3s (sold until 2024) have two steering wheel buttons and two stalks – one for the gear selector and one for indicating.
Second-generation cars have a few more buttons on the steering wheel but no stalks. They also have a smaller touchscreen in the back for rear-seat passengers.
The BYD SEAL’s interior is more conventional with its selection of physical shortcut buttons for things like volume and drive mode, but it doesn’t do without its own party trick – a rotating touchscreen up front.
BYD Seal vs. Tesla Model 3: boot space and practicality
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When it comes to practicality, there’s one clear winner, and it’s the Model 3 with its large boot and under-boot storage. Total space stands at 594 litres, compared to the SEAL’s 400 litres.
It’s also good news in the froot (front boot) category, with the Model 3 boasting an 88-litre froot – that’s 30 litres more than the SEAL, which makes a big difference to being able to store your charging cables and other equipment under the bonnet.
If this isn’t too important to you, you’ll be pleased to know that both offer similar rear passenger space.
BYD Seal vs. Tesla Model 3: safety and reliability
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Although neither is its respective company’s flagship model, they’re both very important models in terms of mainstream electric motoring, so Tesla and BYD have both ploughed loads of cameras and sensors into them to power driver assistance systems.
It means that both got five-star Euro NCAP safety ratings, but if you’re nit-picking, the Model 3 got higher scores in all four of the testing categories. Both got exceptional marks, though.
BYD Seal vs. Tesla Model 3: dimensions
BYD Seal
Length: 4,800mm
Width: 2,150mm (including mirrors)
Height: 1,460mm
Boot space: 400 litres and 58-litre froot
Tesla Model 3
Length: 4,720mm
Width: 2,089mm (including mirrors)
Height: 1,440mm
Boot space: 594 litres and 88-litre froot
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Verdict: BYD Seal vs. Tesla Model 3, which should you buy?
If you’re after an established electric saloon with top-notch software, extreme efficiency and ultra-minimalism, then you should consider the Tesla Model 3, which is still best-in-class.
If practicality is also important, the Model 3 offers more storage solutions, making it better for carrying more.
However, if you want a softer ride, a more familiar-feeling interior and a slightly cheaper price tag, you should consider the BYD SEAL.
Whether or not we’ve put your BYD SEAL vs. Tesla Model 3 debate to bed, we have plenty of used electric cars for sale, so why not compare prices to see which fits your budget best?