BYD has introduced updates to its all-electric SEAL sedan for the 2026 model year in the UK, focusing on increased practicality, enhanced safety technology and stable pricing. The revised model builds on the version launched in 2023 and aims to strengthen the brand’s position in the European electric vehicle market.
The 2026 BYD SEAL retains its core design and performance characteristics but adds improvements that affect everyday usability, including expanded luggage capacity and new driver assistance features. Prices remain unchanged despite the added equipment.
More boot space and subtle design revisions
Externally, the SEAL continues to follow BYD’s Ocean design language, with minor updates. A new 19-inch wheel design has been introduced, along with three additional exterior colours: Ruby Red, Obsidian Black and Lavender Grey. Existing shades such as Polar White, Indigo Grey and Atlantis Grey remain available.
Branding has been adjusted slightly. The BYD badge is now positioned above the full-width rear light bar, while the SEAL model name appears on the lower right of the boot lid.
Interior changes are understated. Nappa leather upholstery remains standard, but stitched branding on the headrests has been removed for a cleaner appearance. The centre armrest no longer displays an NFC logo, although the feature remains functional.
Practicality has improved. Boot capacity increases from 400 litres to 485 litres without altering the car’s 4.8-metre length. The front storage compartment has also been redesigned and now offers 72 litres of space, up from 53 litres, providing additional room for charging cables or small luggage.
Expanded driver assistance and digital access
The 2026 model introduces a Driver Monitoring System designed to meet updated European safety requirements. The system tracks driver attention and provides alerts if focus drops.
A Bluetooth-based digital key has also been added, allowing owners to unlock and start the vehicle using a smartphone.
Standard equipment remains extensive. The entry-level Design trim includes LED headlights with high-beam assist, a panoramic glass roof, a 12-speaker Dynaudio sound system, dual 15W wireless charging pads, heated and ventilated electrically adjustable front seats, and a 15.6-inch high-definition touchscreen. The Excellence trim adds a head-up display.
Performance and battery specifications unchanged
Mechanically, the SEAL continues with two powertrain options. The Excellence variant features a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive setup producing 523 bhp and 670 Nm of torque, accelerating from 0 to 62 mph in 3.8 seconds. The Design version uses a rear-wheel-drive, single-motor layout delivering 308 bhp and 360 Nm, with a 0 to 62 mph time of 5.9 seconds. Both versions are electronically limited to 112 mph.
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Both models use BYD’s cobalt-free Blade Battery based on lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry. The 82.5 kWh battery delivers a WLTP range of up to 354 miles in the Design trim and 323 miles in the Excellence trim. DC fast charging peaks at 150 kW, enabling a 10 to 80 percent recharge in approximately 37 minutes.
Pricing and warranty
Pricing remains unchanged from the previous model year. The 2026 SEAL starts at £45,730 for the Design trim and £48,730 for the Excellence.
The vehicle is covered by a six-year, 93,750-mile warranty, while the battery carries an eight-year or 155,350-mile coverage period.
The updates position the SEAL as a revised but familiar offering in the UK electric sedan market, with changes focused on practicality, compliance and everyday convenience rather than major redesign.
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