BYD Cars Philippines, under official distributor ACMobility, has officially launched the new BYD Seal 5 DM-i, introducing a refreshed compact sedan that brings the brand’s fifth-generation Super DM-i plug-in hybrid technology to the local market. The new model is offered in Essential and Dynamic variants and targets motorists looking for an electrified sedan with lower running costs, long driving range, and everyday practicality.
The new Seal 5 DM-i is powered by a front-wheel-drive permanent magnet synchronous electric motor producing 163 hp and 210 Nm of torque, paired with BYD’s latest Super DM-i hybrid system and Blade Battery. It uses a 7.42-kWh lithium iron phosphate battery that delivers up to 55 km of electric driving range under the NEDC standard, and a claimed combined driving range of up to 1,600 km.
AC charging is supported through a Type 2 connector with a maximum charging rate of 3.3 kW, allowing a full charge in approximately 2.5 hours, more than enough time for a quick lunch break at home or in one of ACMobility’s dedicated EV charging stations..
BYD did not tinker much when styling the new Seal 5 DM-i. Although its front end received quite a bit of retouching, the model still has that distinctive aerodynamic profile, which aligns with the brand’s Ocean Aesthetics design language. It then goes deeper in detail with sharp-looking front lighting signatures, sleek character lines, and a stylish rear end.
Measuring 4,780 mm long, 1,837 mm wide, and 1,515 mm tall with a 2,718 mm wheelbase, the model also offers a 522-liter cargo compartment that expands to 1,295 liters with the rear seats folded. Standard exterior equipment includes LED lighting, automatic headlights, daytime running lights, power-adjustable side mirrors, and 16-inch alloy wheels.
Inside, both variants feature an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic climate control with rear air vents, and 60:40 split-folding rear seats. The Essential variant comes with premium fabric upholstery, while the Dynamic adds leather seats and additional convenience features such as an NFC card for keyless access.
Safety features have not been forgotten. These include four airbags, a rear-view camera, four rear parking sensors, tire pressure monitoring, cruise control, traction control, electronic stability control, hill hold control, electronic brakeforce distribution, hydraulic brake assist, and other braking and stability systems. All in all, both variants share the same core safety suite, with the Dynamic distinguishing itself by adding front parking sensors and a 360-degree camera for improved maneuverability.
To mark the launch, BYD is offering both variants at introductory prices from July 28 to August 31, 2026. The Sealion 5 DM-i Essential will be available for P898,000. On the other hand, the range-topping Dynamic variant can be yours for an intro price of P998,000.
Starting September 1, the Essential will carry a suggested retail price of P948,000, while the Dynamic will retail for P1,048,000. Both variants come with an 8-year Drive Unit warranty, a 6-year or 160,000-kilometer bumper-to-bumper warranty, and an 8-year or 160,000-kilometer warranty for the BYD Blade Battery. Customers can choose from four exterior colors: Deep Sea Blue, Cosmos Black, Atlantis Grey, and Harbour Grey.
With the arrival of the Seal 5 DM-i, BYD continues to broaden its electrified lineup in the Philippines, giving sedan buyers another option as the local market gradually shifts toward more efficient forms of mobility.
Autocar’s Take
The launch of the BYD Seal 5 DM-i shows that electrified mobility in the Philippines is no longer limited to SUVs and crossovers. By bringing its fifth-generation Super DM-i technology into a compact sedan, BYD is expanding consumer choice while addressing concerns about fuel costs and driving range.
The Seal 5 DM-i enters a segment that has long been dominated by conventional gasoline-powered models, offering buyers an alternative without abandoning the familiarity of a sedan. As more hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles enter the market, competition is expected to intensify, ultimately giving Filipino motorists more options across different price points.
