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BYD Seal U VS Renault Austral – Specs, Efficiency & Price Comparison

Which model is the better choice – the BYD Seal U or the Renault Austral? We compare performance (324 HP vs 200 HP), boot capacity (552 L vs 500 L), efficiency (19.90 kWh0.90 L vs 4.70 L), and of course, the price (33300 £ vs 29400 £).
Find out now which car fits your needs better!

The BYD Seal U (SUV) is powered by a Plugin Hybrid or Electric engine and comes with a Automatic transmission. In comparison, the Renault Austral (SUV) features a Petrol MHEV or Full Hybrid engine and a Automatic gearbox.

When it comes to boot capacity, the BYD Seal U offers 552 L, while the Renault Austral provides 500 L – depending on what matters most to you. If you’re looking for more power, you’ll need to decide whether the 324 HP of the BYD Seal U or the 200 HP of the Renault Austral suits your needs better.

There are also differences in efficiency: 19.90 kWh0.90 L vs 4.70 L. In terms of price, the BYD Seal U starts at 33300 £, while the Renault Austral is available from 29400 £.

Compare all the key specs now and find out which model fits your lifestyle best!

In the competitive arena of compact SUVs, the BYD Seal U stands out with its cutting-edge electric technology and generous range, making it a sustainable choice for eco-conscious drivers. Meanwhile, the Renault Austral shines with its sleek European design and advanced hybrid options that balance efficiency with driving pleasure. Enthusiasts will appreciate the distinctive qualities both models bring to the table, whether prioritizing environmental impact or seamless connectivity and comfort.

BYD Seal U

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.

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Renault Austral

The Renault Austral is a compact SUV that combines modern design with advanced technology, making it a standout in the crowded automotive market. Its sleek exterior styling is paired with a comfortable and spacious interior, providing a premium feel for passengers. With an emphasis on connectivity and innovation, the Austral ensures that drivers stay engaged and informed on every journey.

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BYD Seal U vs Renault Austral: A New Era of SUVs

As the automotive industry continues to innovate, the SUV market has been blessed with two exciting contenders for the 2024 model year: the BYD Seal U and the Renault Austral. Both vehicles present unique takes on modern SUV versatility, combining performance, efficiency, and cutting-edge technology. But how do they stack up against each other? Let's delve into the technical aspects and innovations of these two exciting models.

Power and Performance

The BYD Seal U empowers drivers with a choice between plug-in hybrid and fully electric drivetrains. The vehicle boasts impressive power outputs of 218 to 324 HP, complemented by torque ranging from 300 to an exhilarating 550 Nm. This translates to a dynamic driving experience, with acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in as little as 5.9 seconds, and a top speed reaching between 170 to 180 km/h, depending on the variant.

On the other hand, the Renault Austral offers a mix of petrol mild hybrid and full hybrid engines, producing between 158 to 200 HP. With a maximum torque of 270 Nm, it achieves a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in as quick as 8.4 seconds, reaching a top speed of 174 km/h. While it may not match the sheer power of the Seal U, the Austral delivers a balanced performance suited for urban and highway driving.

Efficiency and Eco-Friendliness

Efficiency is a hallmark of the BYD Seal U. The model boasts an electric range of up to 500 km on its electric version, with minimal CO2 emissions depending on the powertrain selection. The plug-in hybrid variant offers fuel consumption as low as 0.9 to 1.2 L/100 km combined with electric consumption between 19.9 to 20.5 kWh/100 km.

The Renault Austral focuses on petrol efficiency, with impressive consumption rates of 4.7 to 6.1 L/100 km depending on the engine variant. While its CO2 emissions are higher than those of the Seal U, its hybrid technology offers a marked improvement over traditional combustion engines, classifying it comfortably within the C to E CO2 efficiency spectrum.

Space and Dimensions

Both SUVs cater to family-friendly versatility with five doors and ample seating for five passengers. The BYD Seal U stands tall in size, measuring up to 4785 mm in length, 1890 mm in width, and approximately 1670 mm in height. It boasts a spacious trunk capacity ranging from 425 to 552 liters, accommodating a wide range of cargo needs.

In comparison, the Renault Austral measures 4510 mm in length, 1825 mm in width, and 1618 mm in height, positioning it slightly more compact while offering a trunk capacity of 430 to 500 liters, maintaining practicality without sacrificing space.

Technical Innovations

The BYD Seal U epitomizes innovative technology, particularly with its electric and hybrid drivetrains, allowing it to bridge the gap between traditional fuel and future mobility. Its flexible transmission options, including both CVT and reduction gearbox, cater to diverse driving preferences.

The Renault Austral also impresses with its advanced automatic transmission and intelligent fuel management in its hybrid systems, emphasizing a smooth and efficient driving experience. Its commitment to refined mechanics and user-friendly technology places it commendably in the hybrid SUV segment.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between the BYD Seal U and Renault Austral boils down to individual preferences and priorities. The Seal U shines with its powerful performance and extensive electric capabilities, making it ideal for those prioritizing sustainability and cutting-edge tech. Meanwhile, the Austral offers a well-rounded driving experience with its hybrid options and economic fuel consumption, appealing to those seeking balance and efficiency in a stylish package. Both vehicles invite a new era of SUV innovations, setting benchmarks for future models to follow.

BYD Seal U
Renault Austral
Seal U
Austral

Costs and Consumption

Price
33300 - 38600 £
Price
29400 - 38500 £
Consumption L/100km
0.9 - 1.2 L
Consumption L/100km
4.7 - 6.1 L
Consumption kWh/100km
19.9 - 20.5 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
70 - 500 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 - 26 g/km
co2
105 - 139 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
60 L
Fuel tank capacity
55 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
1539 - 1592 kg
Trunk capacity
425 - 552 L
Trunk capacity
430 - 500 L
Length
4775 - 4785 mm
Length
4510 mm
Width
1890 mm
Width
1825 mm
Height
1668 - 1670 mm
Height
1618 mm
Payload
410 kg
Payload
464 - 509 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Electric
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
CVT, Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
CVT, Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
218 - 324 HP
Power HP
158 - 200 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.9 - 9.6 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.4 - 9.7 s
Max Speed
170 - 180 km/h
Max Speed
174 km/h
Torque
300 - 550 Nm
Torque
270 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
160 - 238 kW
Power kW
116 - 147 kW
Engine capacity
1497 - 1498 cm3
Engine capacity
1199 - 1332 cm3

General

Model Year
2024
Model Year
2024
CO2 Efficiency Class
B, A
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, C
Brand
BYD
Brand
Renault

BYD Seal U

An Introduction to the BYD Seal U

The BYD Seal U is a groundbreaking entrant in the automotive market, serving as a testament to the brand's commitment to innovative sustainable mobility solutions. Designed as an eco-friendly SUV, the Seal U is available in both Plug-In Hybrid and fully Electric variants, providing consumers with choices that align with their driving habits and environmental concerns.

Innovative Powertrains and Performance

At the heart of the BYD Seal U lies its forward-thinking powertrains. The Plug-In Hybrid model combines a finely tuned 1497 - 1498 cm³, 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor to deliver a total power output of up to 324 PS. The hybrid system is capable of achieving a frugal 0.9 - 1.2 litres per 100 km fuel consumption, though it does not compromise on performance with an impressive acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 - 9.6 seconds.

In the fully Electric variant, the Seal U boasts a substantial performance with up to 238 kW of power, ensuring a brisk ride while providing a clean and silent driving experience. With two battery options offering ranges from 420 km to an expansive 500 km, this electric SUV proves to be a formidable contender for those who prioritise long-distance electric mobility.

State-of-the-Art Design and Comfort

The Seal U's design embodies a sophisticated blend of style and function. Its commanding SUV silhouette, measuring between 4775 - 4785 mm in length, conveys both elegance and robustness. Inside, the vehicle offers room for five passengers, ensuring comfort with plush seating and a spacious interior that's accentuated by advanced ergonomic design and quality materials.

The boot space ranges from 425 to 552 litres, accommodating the demands of family trips or sizable grocery hauls with ease. In terms of technology, the Seal U does not disappoint, featuring an intuitive infotainment system that connects seamlessly with mobile devices, ensuring entertainment and connectivity on the go.

Advanced Safety Features

Safety is paramount for BYD, and the Seal U incorporates a suite of advanced safety technologies to protect its passengers. Systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking work in concert to enhance the driving experience while providing peace of mind. These features are complemented by a robust body structure designed to absorb and dissipate impact energy efficiently.

Environmentally Conscious Engineering

The BYD Seal U sets a new standard in eco-friendly automotive design. Its Plug-In Hybrid and Electric models both earn impressive CO2 efficiency ratings, ranging from class A to B, thanks to technologies that significantly reduce emissions. Additionally, its Plug-In Hybrid system enables an all-electric range up to 80 km, allowing for short day-to-day trips purely on electric power and making it an ideal choice for environmentally conscious drivers.

Pricing and Model Year

The BYD Seal U is accessible to a wide range of budgets with prices beginning at €38,900 and extending to €44,990, depending on specifications and chosen trim levels such as Boost CVT, Comfort, Design, and Design AWD CVT. As we look to the future, the 2024 model year is poised to continue BYD's tradition of excellence, bringing advanced engineering and sustainable practices to drivers eager for innovation and efficiency.

Renault Austral

Introducing the Renault Austral: A New Era of Performance and Efficiency

Renault has once again set the bar high with the introduction of the Renault Austral. Blending cutting-edge technology with consistent design craftsmanship, the Austral is the perfect SUV for those who seek style and substance on the road. With a range of models available, the Austral caters not just to different preferences but showcases Renault’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Innovative Powertrains Tailored for Performance

The Renault Austral is available in two major powertrain options: the Mild Hybrid and the E-Tech Full Hybrid. Both options are designed to deliver efficient performance while minimizing the environmental footprint.

The Mild Hybrid variant, boasting 158 horsepower, integrates a 1.3-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine. It ensures smooth transitions with its front-wheel drive and automatic transmission. The Renault Austral Mild Hybrid achieves approximately 6.1 L/100 km, emphasizing an eco-friendly approach with its CO2 efficiency class E.

On the other hand, the E-Tech Full Hybrid version takes performance up a notch with 200 horsepower and a 1.2-liter 3-cylinder engine. This variant promises an astonishing fuel consumption of 4.7 L/100 km, accompanied by a class-leading CO2 efficiency (class C). The full hybrid system not only optimizes energy use but also provides a dynamic and spirited drive.

Technological Advancements and Features

Renault's focus on technology shines remarkably in the Austral. The automatic gearbox ensures seamless power delivery, allowing drivers to enjoy stress-free and smooth rides. With a top speed of 174 km/h, the Austral maintains agility and responsiveness during any journey.

Equipped with a robust torque of 270 Nm, Renault Austral provides sufficient pulling power, especially beneficial on tricky terrains or for carrying heavier loads. The Austral can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 9.7 to 8.4 seconds, depending on the variant, making it admirably swift for an SUV.

Striking Design and Spacious Comfort

The Renault Austral stands out with its sleek and dynamic design. Measuring 4,510 mm in length, 1,825 mm in width, and 1,618 mm in height, it's perfectly dimensioned for both city and off-road driving. Offering 5 seats, it ensures ample space and comfort for passengers, making it an ideal choice for family trips or long journeys.

With a trunk capacity of up to 500 liters, practicality is never compromised. Whether it's groceries or luggage for a weekend getaway, the Austral offers plenty of room. Its curb weight ranges between 1,539 to 1,592 kg, optimizing fuel efficiency while maintaining a sturdy build.

Price Points and Trim Levels

The Renault Austral offers a variety of trim levels to suit varying tastes and requirements. Starting at a competitive price of €34,250 and reaching up to €44,950, customers can choose from trims like the Evolution Automatik, Iconic Esprit Alpine Automatik, and Techno Multi-Mode-Automatik. Each trim combines premium features with state-of-the-art technology, ensuring value for money.

Conclusion: Renault's Commitment to the Future

The Renault Austral is not just about moving forward; it represents a journey toward innovation and environmental responsibility. Whether selecting a mildly efficient hybrid or opting for the full hybrid marvel, drivers will appreciate the engineering excellence and thoughtful design that the Austral offers. Renault continues to pave the way for sustainable motoring, and the Austral is yet another milestone in their illustrious automotive legacy.

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