@ BYD Auto / BYD Global Media
@ Renault Group Media
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BYD Seal U vs Renault Austral – Performance, range & efficiency compared

Compare performance, boot capacity, efficiency and price at a glance.
Find out which car is the better choice for you – BYD Seal U or Renault Austral?

Seal U @ BYD Auto / BYD Global Media

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.

Austral @ Renault Group Media

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.

Seal U @ BYD Auto / BYD Global Media

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.

Austral @ Renault Group Media

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.

Seal U @ BYD Auto / BYD Global Media

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.

Austral @ Renault Group Media

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.

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

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

Renault Austral has a to a small extent advantage in terms of price – it starts at 29700 £, while the BYD Seal U costs 34300 £. That’s a price difference of around 4535 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: BYD Seal U manages with 0.40 L and is therefore convincingly more efficient than the Renault Austral with 4.80 L. The difference is about 4.40 L per 100 km.

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 200 HP. That’s roughly 124 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the BYD Seal U is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 5.90 s, while the Renault Austral takes 8.40 s. That’s about 2.50 s faster.

There’s no difference in top speed – both reach 180 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: BYD Seal U pulls clearly stronger with 550 Nm compared to 270 Nm. That’s about 280 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Renault Austral is distinct lighter – 1539 kg compared to 1940 kg. The difference is around 401 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Renault Austral offers hardly perceptible more room – 555 L compared to 552 L. That’s a difference of about 3 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Renault Austral performs slightly better – up to 1761 L, which is about 296 L more than the BYD Seal U.

When it comes to payload, Renault Austral slightly takes the win – 477 kg compared to 410 kg. That’s a difference of about 67 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the BYD Seal U shows itself to be dominates this comparison 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 pairs a sleek fastback silhouette with a surprisingly roomy, tech-rich cabin, giving electric chic without the showroom pretension. It's a smart pick for buyers after confident handling, sensible practicality and standout value — all wrapped up with a cheeky grin when you put your foot down.

details

Renault Austral

5 (2)
rate

The Renault Austral dresses the family SUV in elegant modern looks and a surprisingly grown-up cabin that feels thoughtful and livable. It balances comfort and clever technology with a relaxed road presence—an appealing choice for buyers who want style and everyday sense without fuss.

details
BYD Seal U
Renault Austral
Seal U @ BYD Auto / BYD Global Media
Austral @ Renault Group Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
34300 - 39800 £
Price
29700 - 37800 £
Consumption L/100km
0.4 - 1.2 L
Consumption L/100km
4.8 - 6.5 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
109 - 148 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 - 1613 kg
Trunk capacity
425 - 552 L
Trunk capacity
527 - 555 L
Length
4775 - 4785 mm
Length
4533 mm
Width
1890 mm
Width
1825 mm
Height
1668 - 1670 mm
Height
1645 mm
Max trunk capacity
1440 - 1465 L
Max trunk capacity
1736 - 1761 L
Payload
410 kg
Payload
464 - 477 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
180 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
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
B, A
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, C
Brand
BYD
Brand
Renault
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.