BYD launches Sealion 6 in Japan as cheapest plug-in hybrid SUV, from USD 26,700
BYD has launched its plug‑in hybrid SUV, the Sealion 6, in Japan, priced from 3,982,000 yen (approximately USD 26,700), making it the lowest-priced PHEV SUV in the country, as reported by Nikkei. The launch on December 1 marks BYD Japan’s first plug-in hybrid offering, following the company’s initial entry into the Japanese market in 2023 with four electric vehicles.
Sealion 6 has been the global top-selling plug-in hybrid SUV, with BYD accounting for roughly 30 per cent of worldwide PHV sales between January and October. Within BYD’s lineup, the model leads global rankings, reflecting its strong performance in the PHV segment. In Europe, the model, sold under the name “Seal U,” was the best-selling plug-in hybrid in June, and BYD is also promoting PHV sales in Southeast Asia.
In Japan, the Sealion 6 competes competitively with both hybrid and plug-in SUVs. While it costs slightly more than the entry-level Toyota Prius PHEV (3,847,300 yen / USD 25,800), it is priced substantially below the Toyota Harrier (5,047,300 yen / USD 33,900) and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (5,294,300 yen / USD 35,500). This pricing reflects BYD’s strategy to target customers who prefer hybrid vehicles, a segment where fully electric vehicle adoption is limited due to insufficient charging infrastructure.
The SUV combines a hybrid powertrain with an electric motor, providing around 100 km of electric-only driving range for typical urban use. A petrol engine is available for longer trips. Fuel efficiency is rated at approximately 22.4 km per litre, higher than comparable hybrid SUVs. The vehicle is equipped with three millimetre-wave radars and a high-resolution camera to support driver-assistance functions.
BYD says the Sealion 6 has been adjusted for the Japanese market, with enhanced rear-seat comfort and reduced vibration, based on local user feedback. A black-wheel specification has been added to address concerns about wheel dirt. BYD Japan plans to expand its new-energy vehicle lineup with additional plug-in hybrid models in the future.
According to the Japan Automobile Importers Association, BYD sold 3,298 vehicles from January to October, a 64 per cent year-on-year increase. However, sales remain below those of leading import brands such as Mercedes-Benz (41,684 units) and Tesla (approximately 9,100 units). The performance of Sealion 6 in Japan will be closely watched as a measure of BYD’s potential growth in the plug-in hybrid segment.
