Do you really need the all-wheel drive Seal?
Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting BYD’s new UK headquarters in Uxbridge, where I got up close and personal with their latest models. Among the range was the BYD Seal, which I’d previously reviewed in its all-wheel-drive (AWD) form. This time, though, I had the chance to take the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) version for a spin. Is the RWD variant just as good, or does the AWD offer something more? Let’s dive in and find out.
First Impressions
Visually, the BYD Seal RWD is virtually identical to its AWD sibling. The sleek, modern design remains intact, and you still get the same attention to detail in the cabin. The exterior is stylish and contemporary, with sharp lines and an appealing presence on the road.
Stepping inside, the cabin is well-appointed with good materials and a spacious layout. The front seats are power-adjustable and come with heating and cooling functions, ensuring comfort no matter the weather. The panoramic roof adds a sense of openness, while the ambient lighting enhances the cabin’s modern vibe.
Performance on the Road
Powering the RWD model is a 308bhp motor that produces 359Nm of torque. This setup propels the Seal from 0-62mph in a respectable 5.9 seconds. While it’s not blisteringly fast compared to the AWD’s 3.8 seconds, the acceleration is smooth and linear, providing a steady and confident drive. The RWD also offers a better range of 354 miles combined and 428 miles of city driving, compared to 323 miles and 372 miles respectively.
It also maintains the serene ride quality of its AWD sibling. Even when driving through the chaos of city traffic or navigating the uneven surfaces of British roads, the car remains composed and comfortable. The platform feels rigid, translating some of the road surface into the cabin, but not to the point of discomfort.
Comparing RWD and AWD
Having driven both the AWD and RWD versions of the Seal, the differences between them are subtle. The AWD variant offers a slightly more aggressive acceleration and potentially better traction in challenging conditions, but the RWD holds its own remarkably well.
For most drivers, the RWD version will be more than sufficient. It’s lighter, which theoretically should give you a bit more range – an important consideration in the EV world. Moreover, the handling remains reasonably responsive, and it’s nimble and easy enough to negotiate city streets.
Range and Charging
Range anxiety is always a concern with EVs, but having previously driven the AWD version literally all around London for an entire day and not having needed to recharge, the BYD Seal RWD should outperform even that. When it comes to recharging, the 150kW charging means you’re looking at 10%-80% in 37 minutes.
Interior Features and Tech
The BYD Seal is packed with tech features; the 15.6-inch rotating centre screen is a standout, offering clear graphics and intuitive controls. The 12-speaker sound system provides excellent audio quality, perfect for enjoying your favourite tunes on the go.
Safety is also a priority with the Seal. It comes equipped with a host of driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot detection, and collision warning and braking. The 360-degree camera and parking sensors help to make parking in tight spaces a breeze.
RWD or AWD?
The BYD Seal Design RWD is a decent EV in stylish clothes and serves to illustrate why the company has overtaken rivals to take the top spot. While the AWD version might appeal to those who prioritise maximum traction and power, the RWD model offers nearly all the same benefits at a slightly lower cost and with the added bonus of potentially more range.
For anyone considering a switch to an EV, the BYD Seal RWD is definitely worth a test drive. It’s a serene, comfortable, and capable electric car and proof that you don’t need to compromise on quality or performance when choosing a more affordable option. It’s definitely worth taking the RWD out for a spin.
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