@ BYD Auto / BYD Global Media
@ Kia Corporation
VS

BYD Seal U vs Kia Sportage – Performance, range & efficiency compared

Everyday use, family trips or long-distance drives – here’s where the differences show.
Discover whether BYD Seal U or Kia Sportage fits your lifestyle better.

Seal U @ BYD Auto / BYD Global Media

Comparative Analysis: BYD Seal U vs. Kia Sportage

The automotive industry is constantly evolving, with manufacturers pushing the boundaries of technology and design. In this article, we delve into a comprehensive comparison of the BYD Seal U and the Kia Sportage, two standout SUVs in the competitive market of 2024. We will examine their technical specifications, innovative features, and what sets them apart in a rapidly changing landscape.

Sportage @ Kia Corporation

Powertrains and Performance Features

The BYD Seal U offers a range of power options, including Plug-in Hybrid and fully electric configurations, generating between 218 to 324 HP. This impressive power translates into various performance metrics, with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of as quick as 5.9 seconds and an electronic top speed reaching 180 km/h. With a maximum torque of up to 550 Nm, the Seal U allows for robust performance whether in city traffic or on the highway.

On the other hand, the Kia Sportage presents multiple engine types ranging from Diesel MHEV to full hybrids. Power output varies significantly from 136 HP to a robust 252 HP depending on the engine choice. Its acceleration ranges from 8.3 seconds to 11.6 seconds, showcasing strong performance across the board, complemented by a max speed of up to 194 km/h and torque values reaching 350 Nm.

Seal U @ BYD Auto / BYD Global Media

Efficiency and Fuel Economy

Efficiency is a key consideration for today’s buyers, and here again, both models offer intriguing propositions. The BYD Seal U shines with an impressive electric consumption of 19.9 kWh per 100 km and an average fuel consumption as low as 0.9 L/100 km for the hybrid variant. The electric range can be an impressive 500 km in optimal conditions, ensuring fewer stops on long journeys.

The Kia Sportage, however, also makes commendable strides in fuel efficiency, with consumption figures ranging from 5 L/100 km to 7.2 L/100 km depending on the engine type. While it does not rival the Seal U's pure electric range, it offers a substantial electric range of 64 km in hybrid configurations, making it a solid choice for urban environments.

Sportage @ Kia Corporation

Interior & Cargo Space

Both the BYD Seal U and Kia Sportage prioritize passenger comfort and cargo versatility. The Seal U can accommodate up to five passengers comfortably, with impressive trunk capacity ranging from 425 to 552 liters, depending on configurations. The stylish design also emphasizes a user-friendly interface equipped with numerous tech amenities that cater to modern needs.

The Kia Sportage matches its rival with a spacious interior that can also seat five passengers comfortably. Offering a trunk capacity of up to 587 liters, it surpasses the Seal U in cargo space, giving it an advantage for those who frequently carry larger loads. The Sportage also features an impressive array of infotainment options and driver assistance technology, adding another dimension of modern convenience.

Seal U @ BYD Auto / BYD Global Media

Technological Innovations

In today’s automotive landscape, technology is of paramount importance and both manufacturers have embraced this trend. The BYD Seal U incorporates cutting-edge technologies such as advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), intuitive touchscreen interfaces, and high-quality materials within the cabin. Its hybrid and electric vehicles boast smart energy efficiency systems to optimize performance and environmental sustainability.

The Kia Sportage does not fall behind in this aspect, featuring innovative safety technologies, including lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control as well as an engaging infotainment system with smartphone integration capabilities. The sporty yet sophisticated design of the interior elevates the driving experience, ensuring both style and substance.

Sportage @ Kia Corporation

Final Thoughts: Which SUV Reigns Supreme?

When comparing the BYD Seal U and Kia Sportage, potential buyers face two excellent choices with unique strengths. The BYD Seal U is a leader in electric and hybrid efficiency, presenting advanced technologies and high performance, while the Kia Sportage shines in versatility, cargo space, and all-around performance across various engine types.

Your choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, whether prioritizing electric mobility and innovation or the practicality offered by a versatile SUV with a strong performance pedigree.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Kia Sportage has a slightly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 29700 £, while the BYD Seal U costs 34300 £. That’s a price difference of around 4543 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: BYD Seal U manages with 0.40 L and is therefore significantly more efficient than the Kia Sportage with 1.20 L. The difference is about 0.80 L per 100 km.

As for range, the BYD Seal U performs decisively better – achieving up to 500 km, about 436 km more than the Kia Sportage.

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the BYD Seal U has a clearly perceptible edge – offering 324 HP compared to 252 HP. That’s roughly 72 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the BYD Seal U is clearly perceptible quicker – completing the sprint in 5.90 s, while the Kia Sportage takes 7.90 s. That’s about 2 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Kia Sportage performs a bit better – reaching 203 km/h, while the BYD Seal U tops out at 180 km/h. The difference is around 23 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: BYD Seal U pulls distinct stronger with 550 Nm compared to 350 Nm. That’s about 200 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Kia Sportage is clearly perceptible lighter – 1526 kg compared to 1940 kg. The difference is around 414 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Kia Sportage offers slight more room – 587 L compared to 552 L. That’s a difference of about 35 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Kia Sportage performs somewhat better – up to 1776 L, which is about 311 L more than the BYD Seal U.

When it comes to payload, Kia Sportage evident takes the win – 580 kg compared to 410 kg. That’s a difference of about 170 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the BYD Seal U shows itself to be is largely superior and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £34,300
Seal U @ BYD Auto / BYD Global Media

BYD Seal U

  • Engine Type : Plugin Hybrid, Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 218 - 324 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 0.4 - 1.2 L
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 19.9 - 20.5 kWh
  • Electric Range : 70 - 500 km

BYD Seal U

5 (1)
rate

The BYD Seal U presents itself as a sophisticated addition to the electric vehicle market, blending sleek design with cutting-edge technology. Its modern aesthetic is complemented by a spacious interior, offering both comfort and functionality for drivers and passengers alike. With advanced features prioritising sustainability and performance, it represents a bold step forward in eco-friendly motoring.

details

Kia Sportage

5 (1)
rate

The Kia Sportage proves you don't have to choose between style and sensible family motoring, wrapping modern, confident looks around a roomy, well-equipped cabin. It's an easy car to live with — comfortable on daily runs, pleasantly engaging when you want a bit of fun, and kind to your wallet so you can keep smiling at the fuel pump.

details
BYD Seal U
Kia Sportage
Seal U @ BYD Auto / BYD Global Media
Sportage @ Kia Corporation

Costs and Consumption

Price
34300 - 39800 £
Price
29700 - 44700 £
Consumption L/100km
0.4 - 1.2 L
Consumption L/100km
1.2 - 7.9 L
Consumption kWh/100km
19.9 - 20.5 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
70 - 500 km
Electric Range
64 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 - 26 g/km
co2
28 - 180 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
60 L
Fuel tank capacity
42 - 54 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1940 - 2147 kg
Curb weight
1526 - 1905 kg
Trunk capacity
425 - 552 L
Trunk capacity
526 - 587 L
Length
4775 - 4785 mm
Length
4515 - 4540 mm
Width
1890 mm
Width
1865 mm
Height
1668 - 1670 mm
Height
1645 - 1650 mm
Max trunk capacity
1440 - 1465 L
Max trunk capacity
1715 - 1776 L
Payload
410 kg
Payload
510 - 580 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Electric
Engine Type
Diesel MHEV, Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid, Petrol, Plugin Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
CVT, Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic, Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
218 - 324 HP
Power HP
136 - 252 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.9 - 9.6 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.9 - 11.6 s
Max Speed
170 - 180 km/h
Max Speed
180 - 203 km/h
Torque
300 - 550 Nm
Torque
250 - 350 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
160 - 238 kW
Power kW
100 - 185 kW
Engine capacity
1497 - 1498 cm3
Engine capacity
1598 cm3

General

Model Year
2024
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
B, A
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E, F, B, G
Brand
BYD
Brand
Kia
What drive types are available for the BYD Seal U?

The BYD Seal U is available as Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.