The electric SUV market is heating up in 2025, with two compelling options going head-to-head: the Kia EV 6 vs BYD Sealion 7. While Kia has established itself as a serious player in the electric vehicle space, BYD is quickly gaining ground with innovative designs and competitive features.
These electric crossovers offer distinct approaches to performance, range, and technology. The Kia EV 6 brings its proven track record and refined engineering, while the BYD Sealion 7 introduces fresh design elements and cutting-edge features. Whether you’re focused on driving dynamics, interior comfort, or overall value, choosing between these two EVs requires careful consideration.
Let’s dive deep into how these electric SUVs stack up against each other, examining everything from their performance capabilities to their practical features, helping you decide which one better suits your needs.
Contents
Design and Exterior Comparison
When sitting side by side, the Kia EV6 and BYD Sealion 7 present distinct visual approaches to electric mobility. Their exterior designs reveal different philosophies toward what a modern electric SUV should look like.
Styling and Esthetics
The refreshed Kia EV6 embraces the brand’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy with a more sophisticated front-end. Its standout feature is the integrated Star Map Graphic Connected DRL with Sequential Indicators that merges seamlessly with the updated fascia 1. The redesigned triangular headlights create a distinctive appearance, while the lower grille showcases a refined trapezoidal geometric pattern. At the rear, the signature curved taillights maintain their shape but incorporate updated LED elements for a contemporary look 1.
In contrast, the BYD Sealion 7 adopts the company’s signature Ocean series design language with a sleek, coupe-style sloping roofline. It features bold LED daytime running lights and distinctive ‘double-U’ shaped LED headlamps 1. The pronounced wheel arches with contrasting black cladding add a rugged touch, complemented by dual aerodynamic spoilers – one on the roof and another on the boot lid 1.
Dimensions and Space
The BYD Sealion 7 is notably larger than the Kia EV6. The Sealion 7 measures 4830mm in length, 1925mm in width, and 1620mm in height, making it 135mm longer, 35mm wider, and 50mm taller than the EV6 1. Additionally, the Sealion 7’s wheelbase extends to 2930mm, which is 30mm longer than the EV6’s 2900mm wheelbase 1.
Both vehicles offer 5-door configurations with seating for five passengers 1. For storage, the EV6 provides 540 liters of boot space compared to the Sealion 7’s 500 liters 2. The Sealion 7’s trunk aperture is notably wide, making loading and unloading easier 3.
Build Quality and Materials
The BYD Sealion 7 impresses with its premium build quality that exceeds expectations. The interior features impeccable quality with soft-touch materials used generously on the dashboard and door pads 3. According to reviews, finding budget materials inside requires “some digging” 3.
Similarly, the Kia EV6 maintains high-quality standards with an emphasis on sustainable materials for the seats 4. Its feature-loaded cabin includes twin 12.3-inch screens and a refined design that contributes to its sophisticated ambiance 3.
Both vehicles offer distinctive design elements that set them apart: the EV6 with its curved display and fingerprint scanner on the steering wheel 1, and the Sealion 7 with its crystal gear selector and driver monitoring system utilizing infrared technology 1.
Performance and Driving Experience
Behind the wheel is where these two electric SUVs truly reveal their distinct personalities. Power delivery and driving dynamics showcase fundamentally different approaches to electric performance.
Motor Options and Power Output
The 2025 Kia EV6 GT Line AWD arrives with Hyundai Motor Group’s substantial 84 kWh battery pack, generating 321 bhp and an impressive 605 Nm of torque through its all-wheel drive system 56. This powertrain configuration gives the EV6 a balanced approach between performance and efficiency.
On the other hand, the BYD Sealion 7 offers two distinct powertrains, both utilizing an 82.5 kWh battery 1. The Premium model employs a rear-wheel drive setup producing 308 bhp and 380 Nm of torque 1. For those seeking more thrills, the Performance variant dramatically increases output to 522 bhp and 690 Nm through dual motors and all-wheel drive 16. Essentially, the Performance model delivers supercar-rivaling power in a family SUV package.
Acceleration and Handling
Despite its slightly lower power figures, the Kia EV6 delivers impressive acceleration, reaching 100 kmph in just 5.3 seconds 5. The Sealion 7 Premium takes 6.7 seconds for the same sprint 1, whereas the Performance variant blasts to 100 kmph in a mere 4.5 seconds 1—a figure proudly displayed on the vehicle’s rear.
Regarding handling characteristics, the Kia EV6 demonstrates better body control through corners 7. The Sealion 7, although quick in straight lines, exhibits more noticeable body roll 71. Furthermore, the Sealion 7’s steering, while accurate, provides limited feedback to the driver 8. Consequently, for enthusiasts seeking engaging dynamics, the EV6 holds a slight edge.
Driving Modes and Ride Comfort
Both vehicles offer multiple driving modes that significantly alter their personalities. The Sealion 7 features three distinct driving modes that meaningfully affect steering weight and power delivery 8. Additionally, it includes a dedicated snow mode for challenging conditions 8.
In terms of ride quality, the Kia EV6 delivers more composed suspension behavior across various surfaces 7. The Sealion 7 presents a firmer ride, particularly noticeable at low speeds 82, although it improves at highway velocities. Moreover, regenerative braking in the Sealion 7 offers two selectable levels—”Standard” and “Larger”—though neither provides one-pedal driving capability 1.
At highway speeds, the Sealion 7 maintains stability but produces more wind noise around the A-pillars 8, whereas the EV6 generally offers a quieter cabin experience.
Range and Charging Capabilities
Battery capacity and charging capabilities often make or break the ownership experience of electric vehicles. The Kia EV6 and BYD Sealion 7 take slightly different approaches to addressing range concerns.
Battery Specifications
The 2025 Kia EV6 comes equipped with Hyundai Motor Group’s 84 kWh lithium-ion battery pack 9, replacing the earlier 77.4 kWh version. This battery sits under the floor pan, optimizing interior space and weight distribution 1. In comparison, the BYD Sealion 7 utilizes an 82.56 kWh lithium-ion battery 1, also placed beneath the floor pan.
Both manufacturers offer identical battery warranty protection—8 years or 160,000 kilometers, whichever comes first 11. This demonstrates confidence in their respective battery technologies and provides peace of mind for potential buyers considering the long-term ownership costs.
Real-world Range Estimates
Regarding claimed range, the Kia EV6 substantially outperforms the Sealion 7 with an advertised distance of 663 kilometers on a single charge 94. The BYD Sealion 7 offers variant-specific ranges: the Premium RWD model claims 567 kilometers 9, whereas the Performance AWD version delivers a slightly reduced 542 kilometers 91.
In real-world conditions, however, these figures typically decrease. Testing of the BYD Sealion 7 Performance version revealed an actual range of approximately 444 kilometers under mixed driving conditions 1. Under ideal circumstances, the vehicle can achieve between 450-480 kilometers 1. The Sealion 7’s energy consumption ranges from 18-22 kWh/100km 1, which is less efficient than some competitors.
Charging Times and Infrastructure
The charging infrastructure compatibility represents a significant difference between these vehicles. The Kia EV6 supports ultra-rapid 350 kW DC fast charging 19, enabling a 10-80% battery replenishment in just 18 minutes 91. This capability makes it exceptionally practical for long-distance travel.
Conversely, the BYD Sealion 7 tops out at 150 kW DC fast charging 11, resulting in a 10-80% charging time of approximately 24-32 minutes 4. For home charging, the Sealion 7 features an 11 kW AC charger 14, allowing a complete charge in approximately 8-9 hours with three-phase power 4.
Both vehicles offer multiple charging options, yet the Kia’s superior DC fast-charging capability gives it a decisive advantage for drivers who frequently undertake long journeys or rely on public charging infrastructure.
Interior Features and Technology
Stepping inside these electric contenders reveals two distinct approaches to creating a premium cabin experience, with both manufacturers pushing boundaries in comfort and technology integration.
Cabin Design and Comfort
The BYD Sealion 7’s interior draws inspiration from sailboat racing, creating a sense of movement throughout the cabin. Its dashboard features high-quality leatherette and premium quilted Nappa leather seats 10. Equally impressive, the cabin offers 128-color ambient lighting to match any mood 10. Front seats come with ventilation and heating functions, alongside heated rear seats and electric leg support for the driver 10, ensuring long-distance comfort.
Meanwhile, the Kia EV6 emphasizes clean minimalism with sustainable materials for its seats 3. The EV6 features dual-zone climate control with individual fan speed controls 11, unlike the Sealion 7’s common fan speed arrangement. Furthermore, the EV6 incorporates premium relaxation seats that recline fully 3, perfect for recharging while your vehicle does the same.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The technological centerpiece of the Sealion 7 is undoubtedly its 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen that seamlessly transitions between portrait and landscape orientations 12. This display works alongside a 10.25-inch digital driver’s cluster 1 and supports wireless Apple CarPlay 12. The infotainment experience is enhanced by a 12-speaker Dynaudio sound system 10, albeit with reviews suggesting average sound quality 3.
In comparison, the Kia EV6 features dual 12.3-inch curved displays forming a panoramic interface 1 complemented by a 12-inch augmented reality-based heads-up display 6. Sound quality gets priority with 14 speakers 11 versus the Sealion 7’s 12. Uniquely, the EV6’s steering wheel incorporates a fingerprint sensor, allowing registered users to unlock and start the vehicle keylessly 1.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
Safety technology differs substantially between the two models. The Sealion 7 comes equipped with 11 airbags 13 and comprehensive ADAS features including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assistance, and emergency lane keeping 12. Nevertheless, certain features, such as driver fatigue detection using infrared technology, must be disabled each time the vehicle starts if not desired 14.
The EV6 counters with 8 airbags 13 plus Level 2 ADAS capabilities featuring collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control 3, and remote park assist 15. Both vehicles include 360-degree cameras with front and rear parking sensors 13, providing excellent visibility during tight maneuvers.
Practicality and Storage
Daily practicality separates good electric SUVs from great ones. The Kia EV6 and BYD Sealion 7 offer different approaches to storage solutions and passenger comfort that impact everyday ownership.
Cargo Space
The BYD Sealion 7 provides slightly more trunk space than the Kia EV6, offering 520 liters compared to the EV6’s 500 liters 11. This difference, though modest, could matter for families needing every bit of storage. The Sealion 7 enhances its cargo capabilities with a deep underfloor storage compartment, perfect for stowing charging cables 16.
A notable advantage for the Sealion 7 is its front trunk (“frunk”), which adds 58 liters of additional storage 5. Both vehicles feature folding rear seats, with the Sealion 7 offering a 60:40 split configuration 11, expanding cargo capacity considerably. The Sealion 7 also includes a powered tailgate as standard 2.
Passenger Room
Given its larger dimensions, the BYD Sealion 7 provides more interior space. It measures 4830mm in length, 1925mm in width, and 1620mm in height—making it 135mm longer, 35mm wider, and 50mm taller than the Kia EV6 7.
This size advantage translates to “acres of legroom and headroom” in the Sealion 7’s rear seats 16. The Sealion 7’s back seats can recline, adding to passenger comfort 16. Of course, there are compromises—the middle rear seat is described as “really uncomfortable” due to the armrest jutting into occupants’ backs 16.
Everyday Usability
Practically speaking, the Sealion 7 excels with 20 storage cubbyholes distributed throughout the cabin 5. Both vehicles offer door pockets, cup holders, and under-armrest storage 11.
Connectivity options abound in both vehicles. The Sealion 7 provides USB-C slots between the front seats 16 plus one USB-A and one USB-C port for rear passengers 2. The EV6 counters with a cooled glovebox that the Sealion 7 lacks 11.
For families, the Sealion 7’s ISOFIX points are easily accessible 16, and its generous rear space accommodates large child seats comfortably. Both vehicles seat five passengers 11, yet the Sealion 7’s longer wheelbase (2930mm vs 2900mm) 7 provides a slight advantage for taller rear passengers.
Ultimately, the Sealion 7 offers more physical space, while the EV6 focuses on thoughtful features that enhance everyday usability.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The financial aspects of EV ownership extend far beyond the initial purchase price. When evaluating the Kia EV6 and BYD Sealion 7, understanding their complete cost proposition becomes critical for potential buyers.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The price difference between these electric SUVs is substantial. The BYD Sealion 7 starts at ₹48.90 Lakh for the Premium rear-wheel-drive variant, while the Performance all-wheel-drive model costs ₹54.90 Lakh 17. In contrast, the 2025 Kia EV6 is offered exclusively in the GT Line AWD variant at ₹65.90 Lakh 171. This makes the base Sealion 7 approximately ₹17 Lakh less expensive than the EV6, representing a significant price advantage.
For financing purposes, the Sealion 7 Premium commands an EMI of approximately ₹93,508 over a 5-year term, whereas the EV6 GT Line AWD requires ₹1,26,016 monthly 17. This translates to a monthly difference of over ₹32,500—considerable for most buyers.
Standard Features Comparison
Regarding standard equipment, both vehicles offer impressive feature sets. The BYD Sealion 7 Premium includes 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a 15.6-inch rotatable touchscreen, power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats, a head-up display, and a 12-speaker sound system 8.
Upgrading to the Performance variant adds 20-inch alloys, red brake calipers, a heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats 8. The Kia EV6 GT Line AWD justifies its premium with dual 12.3-inch curved displays, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, a fingerprint sensor on the steering wheel, and OTA updates for navigation and electrical systems 1.
Warranty and Ownership Costs
Both manufacturers provide identical 8-year/160,000 km battery warranties 17. Vehicle warranties are identical at 3 years, though the Kia EV6 offers unlimited kilometers compared to BYD’s 150,000 km limitation 17.
Regarding service costs, specific details for India aren’t available, but international data suggests BYD maintenance expenses are competitive. For reference, in Australia, the Sealion 7 requires approximately USD 850 for three years of maintenance for the Premium variant and USD 898 for the Performance model 8. This increases to USD 1,543 and USD 1,654 respectively over five years 8.
Ultimately, the Sealion 7 provides substantial upfront savings, while the EV6 offers unlimited mileage warranty coverage—forcing buyers to weigh immediate cost savings against long-term ownership assurance.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Looking at the 2025 electric crossover landscape, a direct comparison between the Kia EV6 and BYD Sealion 7 reveals fundamental differences in what each manufacturer prioritizes.
The price gap stands out immediately—the Sealion 7 starts at ₹48.90 lakh for the Premium variant 1, while the 2025 Kia EV6 GT Line AWD comes in at ₹65.90 lakh 1. This ₹17 lakh difference represents a substantial consideration for prospective buyers.
Regarding performance, the base Sealion 7 Premium produces 308 bhp with 380 Nm torque through its rear wheels 1, requiring 6.7 seconds to reach 100 kmph 1. The EV6 GT Line AWD counters with 320 bhp and 605 Nm 1, achieving the same sprint in 5.3 seconds 9. For those seeking maximum performance, the Sealion 7 Performance variant delivers an impressive 522 bhp and 690 Nm 1, rocketing to 100 kmph in just 4.5 seconds 1.
Battery capacity remains comparable—84 kWh for the EV6 1 versus 82.5 kWh for both Sealion 7 variants 1. Yet, their claimed ranges differ markedly, with the EV6 boasting 663 km 1 versus the Sealion 7’s 567 km for Premium and 542 km for Performance models 1.
Charging capabilities favor the Kia, supporting 350 kW DC fast charging to achieve 10-80% in 18 minutes 1. The Sealion 7 maxes out at 150 kW DC charging, taking approximately a half-hour for the same task 9.
Interior technology approaches diverge as well. The EV6 utilizes dual 12.3-inch curved displays plus a 12-inch heads-up display 1. Meanwhile, the Sealion 7 features a larger 15.6-inch rotatable touchscreen paired with a 10.25-inch digital cluster 1.
Safety ratings favor the EV6 with its 5-star Euro NCAP rating 9, though both offer comprehensive ADAS features. The Sealion 7 includes 11 airbags 4 versus 8 in the EV6 4.
Ultimately, the BYD delivers tremendous value with its lower price point and comparable features, whereas the Kia justifies its premium positioning through superior charging capabilities, longer range, and refined driving dynamics.
Which Vehicle Should You Choose?
Selecting between these two electric SUVs ultimately comes down to your specific priorities and driving needs. After examining the key attributes of both vehicles, certain patterns emerge that can guide different types of buyers toward their ideal choice.
Best for Performance Enthusiasts
Performance-focused drivers will find the BYD Sealion 7 Performance variant most appealing. With its impressive 522 bhp and 690 Nm of torque 18, this model accelerates from 0-100 kmph in just 4.5 seconds 1—nearly a full second faster than the Kia EV6’s 5.3-second sprint 1. For straight-line thrills, the Sealion 7 Performance delivers supercar-rivaling acceleration in an SUV package.
Nevertheless, enthusiasts who value handling dynamics over raw speed might prefer the Kia EV6. Its superior body control through corners and more responsive steering feedback create a more engaging driving experience, especially on winding roads.
Best for Family Use
Families will appreciate the BYD Sealion 7’s practical advantages. Its larger dimensions—being 135mm longer, 35mm wider, and 50mm taller than the EV6 13—translate to noticeably more interior space. Additionally, the Sealion 7 provides enhanced safety with 11 airbags 19 compared to the EV6’s 8 13.
Conversely, the Kia EV6’s longer 663km range 1 versus the Sealion 7’s maximum 567km 1 means fewer charging stops during family road trips. The EV6’s faster charging capability (10-80% in 18 minutes 1) also minimizes travel disruptions compared to the Sealion 7.
Best for Value Seekers
Budget-conscious buyers will find the BYD Sealion 7 offers exceptional value. At ₹48.90 lakh 13, it undercuts the Kia EV6 by a substantial ₹17 lakh 20. Both vehicles provide identical 8-year/160,000km battery warranties 13, alongside 3-year vehicle warranties (though the EV6 offers unlimited kilometers versus the Sealion 7’s 150,000km limit 13).
First thing to remember is that despite its lower price, the Sealion 7 doesn’t compromise on features, offering a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen 1, ventilated seats 1, and comprehensive ADAS systems 19—making it the clear choice for those seeking maximum features per rupee invested.
Conclusion
Both the Kia EV6 and BYD Sealion 7 showcase distinct strengths that appeal to different types of buyers. The Sealion 7 stands out with its competitive pricing, starting ₹17 lakh below the EV6, while offering impressive performance figures and generous interior space. Though priced higher, the EV6 justifies its premium positioning through superior charging capabilities, longer range, and refined driving dynamics.
Performance enthusiasts will appreciate the Sealion 7’s raw power, especially in its top-tier variant delivering supercar-rivaling acceleration. Practical buyers might lean toward the EV6’s longer range and faster charging times, making it better suited for frequent long-distance travel. Additionally, families seeking maximum space and safety features will find the Sealion 7’s larger dimensions and 11 airbags particularly appealing.
The choice ultimately depends on individual priorities. Budget-conscious buyers seeking maximum features should consider the Sealion 7, while those prioritizing refined driving dynamics and charging convenience might prefer the EV6. Above all, both vehicles represent compelling options in the electric SUV segment, each delivering unique advantages that cater to specific customer needs.
These electric SUVs demonstrate how far EV technology has advanced, offering genuine alternatives to conventional vehicles without significant compromises. Their distinct approaches to performance, practicality, and value ensure buyers can find an option that perfectly matches their requirements.
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