Tesla Model Y vs BYD Sealion 7: Best EV SUV Choice

Posted on: Oct 16, 2025 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Tesla Model Y vs BYD Sealion 7: Best EV SUV Choice

Electric vehicles (EVs) are altering the way we travel, combining eco-friendly technology with premium driving experiences. Leading the charge in the SUV space are the Tesla Model Y and the BYD Sealion 7. While Tesla’s status as an EV pioneer remains unmatched, BYD is quickly rising as a global contender with models designed for families and long-distance drivers.

If you’re planning to bring home your dream electric SUV, it’s wise to start saving early. Alongside budgeting for the vehicle, remember to secure financial protection with online car insurance for added peace of mind.

Read on to explore the features of the Tesla Model Y vs BYD Sealion 7.

Design & Road Presence

Here’s a closer look at how the two SUVs compare visually:

• Tesla Model Y: Sleek Minimalism

The Tesla Model Y reflects Tesla’s signature global design language with smooth surfaces, flush door handles, and a sleek crossover silhouette. Its LED light bar at the rear and standard 19-inch wheels add to its futuristic appeal. Aerodynamic efficiency further enhances the design, aligning perfectly with urban India’s growing preference for understated luxury.

• BYD Sealion 7: Bold and Expressive

In contrast, the BYD Sealion 7 features a bold, aggressive design. Guided by its ‘Ocean Aesthetics’ design philosophy, it stands out with starlight-inspired headlamps, sharp contours, and 20-inch wave swing wheels. The brand’s bold ‘Ocean-X’ face styling gives it a muscular, athletic stance, perfect for buyers who want their SUV to make a strong presence on the road.

Dimension Comparison

Specification	Tesla Model Y	BYD Sealion 7	Specification
Length (mm)	4,790	4,830	Length (mm)
Width (mm)	1,982" (mirrors folded)	1,925	Width (mm)
Height (mm)	1,624	1,620	Height (mm)
Wheelbase (mm)	Not specified	2,930	Wheelbase (mm)
Boot Capacity (L)	938 (2,138 with rear seats folded)	500 (rear) + 58 (front)	Boot Capacity (L)
Wheel Size	19-inch	20-inch	Wheel Size

The Sealion 7 edges ahead in size and wheelbase, offering more cabin room, while the Model Y compensates with an expansive boot, perfect for family getaways.

Interior Space & Cabin Experience

Both models bring modern cabin designs and advanced specifications. Here’s how they compare:

• Tesla Model Y: Simplicity in Design

The focal point of the Model Y’s interior is the 15.4-inch touchscreen, supported by an 8-inch rear display. Heated foldable seats, a panoramic roof, and optional dual-tone interiors give the cabin a modern yet understated feel. True to its philosophy, Tesla leans on minimalism, allowing technology to take centre stage in the driving experience.

• BYD Sealion 7: Luxury Meets Innovation

BYD takes a premium route. Nappa leather seats, ventilated front seats, a rotatable 15.6-inch infotainment screen, and a HUD bring luxury to everyday practicality. Its design appeals to buyers who value a plush, conventional premium feel over minimalism.

Performance & Drive Quality

Both car brands have cultivated a reputation for engineering excellence. Here’s what you should know:

• Tesla Model Y

Variants deliver 235–335 bhp and up to 420 Nm torque. The Long Range version achieves 0–100 km/h in about 5.6 seconds. Rear-wheel drive ensures balanced handling, while its acceleration feels effortless for daily commutes.

• BYD Sealion 7

The Sealion 7 offers 308–523 bhp and up to 690 Nm torque, reaching 0–100 km/h in 4.5 seconds. Equipped with AWD and advanced suspension (double wishbone front, multi-link rear), it appeals to performance-driven users seeking thrill and stability.

Battery Range & Charging Options

Since both cars are electric models, it’s important to compare their battery performance and charging capacity. Here’s what to know:

• Tesla Model Y

Depending on the variant, it carries a 62.5 kWh or 83 kWh battery, with a range between 500–622 km. Tesla promises up to 267 km in just 15 minutes with DC fast charging. Early bookings include a complimentary wall box charger.

• BYD Sealion 7

The Sealion 7 comes with an 82.56 kWh battery, offering up to 567 km (NEDC). Fast charging via CCS2 delivers efficiency, while an 11 kW Type 2 AC charger supports home setups. Though charging networks vary, it remains highly practical for Indian urban lifestyles.

Tech & Safety Features

Both models deliver outstanding technological features that are fitted seamlessly within their respective designs:

• Tesla Model Y:

15.4-inch touchscreen, rear display, OTA updates, and in-built navigation. However, it doesn’t feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

• BYD Sealion 7:

Rotating 15.6-inch screen, HUD, wireless smartphone integration, and English voice assistant. Focuses on hardware-rich features.

Tesla leans on smooth software and regular updates, while BYD shines in hardware and connectivity. Here’s how the two stack up in terms of passenger safety:

• Tesla Model Y:

7 airbags, Autopilot, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and the unique Dog Mode.

• BYD Sealion 7:

11 airbags, advanced ADAS with traffic sign recognition, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure assistance, and hands-free tailgate with memory.

BYD excels in sheer safety equipment, while Tesla delivers with its proven ADAS and unique user-friendly touches.

Price & Value in India

Although the Tesla Model Y price in India can differ depending on the city and add-ons such as Full Self-Driving, it generally remains on the higher side due to its CBU (Completely Built-Up) import status. On the other hand, BYD benefits from local assembly, allowing it to be more competitively priced.

Aspect	Tesla Model Y	BYD Sealion 7
On-Road Price (Mumbai)	₹60 to ₹74 Lakh	₹52 to ₹58 Lakh
Charging Equipment	Wall box charger is currently complimentary	Portable charger and VTOL unit included
Custom Colour Options	Available at extra cost	Offered across more trims without extra charge
Interior Themes	Standard black; dual-tone available as an option	Premium leather upholstery is provided as standard
Additional Tech	Full Self-Driving available at extra cost	HUD, VTOL, NFC Key included by default

When comparing the two, the BYD Sealion 7 delivers a stronger feature set for the price, making it highly appealing. However, Tesla justifies its premium with a distinctive software-driven ecosystem that continues to evolve and enhance the ownership experience over time.

Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Consider?

Choosing between the Tesla Model Y vs BYD Sealion 7 tends to boil down to a minute comparison of their features. If you seek futuristic design, thrilling performance and brand prestige, Tesla is the natural pick. But if you prefer a balance of comfort, practicality, affordability and local support, BYD makes a compelling case.

As electric mobility becomes mainstream in India, saving today can help you bring home your dream SUV tomorrow. Alongside your financial planning, don’t forget to safeguard your journeys with proper vehicle protection. You can now easily browse for car insurance online, which allows you to quickly compare policies and select one that covers the often complex components of luxury vehicles like the Tesla Model Y and BYD Sealion 7.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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