The electric vehicle (EV) market is witnessing fierce competition, with new entrants challenging established players. BYD Sealion 7 and BMW iX1 LWB are two top contenders in the premium electric SUV segment. While BYD promises an affordable yet feature-packed offering, BMW brings in German engineering and luxury. But which one is the better choice? Let’s break it down.
BYD Sealion 7 vs BMW iX1 LWB: A Chinese Premium Or A German Luxury?
Choosing between the BYD Sealion 7 and the BMW iX1 LWB can be tricky. On one hand, BYD is a rising powerhouse in the EV industry, whereas BMW carries a legacy of refined driving dynamics and premium comfort. This comparison will explore every critical aspect—dimensions, features, performance, price, and more.
Dimensions Comparison
A well-sized SUV offers better cabin space and road presence. Let’s compare the dimensions of both these electric SUVs:
| Parameter | BYD Sealion 7 | BMW iX1 LWB |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4830 mm | 4616 mm (-214 mm) |
| Width | 1925 mm | 1845 mm (-80 mm) |
| Height | 1620 mm | 1627 mm (+7 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 2930 mm | 2800 mm (-130 mm) |
| Boot Space | 520 liters | 490 liters (-10 liters) |
Key Takeaways:
- BYD Sealion 7 is longer, wider, and has a greater wheelbase, offering more interior space.
- BMW iX1 LWB is slightly taller but falls short in cargo capacity.
Feature Comparison
Both SUVs are loaded with features, but which one packs more value?
| Feature | BYD Sealion 7 | BMW iX1 LWB |
| LED Headlamps with DRLs | Yes | Yes |
| Wheel Size | 20-inch Alloy | 18-inch Alloy |
| Infotainment System | 15.6-inch Touchscreen | 10.7-inch Touchscreen |
| Digital Driver’s Display | 10.25-inch | 10.25-inch |
| Android Auto & Apple CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heads-up Display | Yes | No |
| Seat Ventilation | Yes | No |
| Memory Function (Seats) | Yes (Front seats) | Yes (Driver only) |
| Sunroof | Panoramic | Panoramic (Fixed-glass) |
| Wireless Phone Charging | Yes (Dual pads) | Yes (Single pad) |
| Speakers | 12 Dynaudio Speakers | 12-Speaker Harman Kardon |
| Airbags | 11 | 8 |
| ADAS Features | Yes | Yes |
| 360-degree Camera | Yes | No (Reverse camera only) |
Key Takeaways:
- BYD Sealion 7 offers larger wheels, a bigger touchscreen, seat ventilation, and a heads-up display.
- BMW iX1 LWB has a premium Harman Kardon sound system but lacks a 360-degree camera.
Powertrain & Performance
A major deciding factor in an EV is power and range. Here’s how they compare:
| Parameter | BYD Sealion 7 | BMW iX1 LWB |
| Battery Pack | 82.5 kWh | 82.5 kWh / 66.4 kWh |
| Power | 313 PS | 530 PS / 204 PS |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 690 Nm / 250 Nm |
| 0-100 kmph | 6.7 sec | 4.5 sec / 8.6 sec |
| Claimed Range | 567 km | 542 km / 531 km |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD | AWD / FWD |
Key Takeaways:
- The BMW iX1 LWB (AWD version) is significantly more powerful (530 PS vs 313 PS) and quicker (4.5 sec vs 6.7 sec).
- BYD Sealion 7 offers a longer range (567 km vs 542 km).
Price & Rivals
The pricing of both SUVs will play a crucial role in determining their market success.
- BYD Sealion 7 Expected Price: ₹45 lakh onwards
- BMW iX1 LWB Price: ₹49 lakh (ex-showroom)
Rivals in the Segment
Both SUVs will compete with:
- Volvo EX40
- Hyundai Ioniq 5
- Kia EV6
Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
The BYD Sealion 7 seems like the better choice for those looking for:
- More space (larger dimensions)
- More features (ventilated seats, larger touchscreen, 360-degree camera)
- Better range (567 km vs 542 km)
- Expected lower price
The BMW iX1 LWB is a solid pick if you prefer:
- More power (AWD version delivers 530 PS)
- Luxury branding
- Superior driving dynamics
FAQs
1. Is BYD a better brand than BMW in EVs?
BYD has grown rapidly in the EV market, offering competitive features and range. BMW, however, has a legacy of premium engineering and luxury.
2. Which EV has a longer range, BYD Sealion 7 or BMW iX1 LWB?
The BYD Sealion 7 claims a range of 567 km, whereas the BMW iX1 LWB offers 542 km.
3. Does the BMW iX1 LWB have better performance?
Yes, the BMW iX1 LWB AWD variant delivers 530 PS, making it faster than the BYD Sealion 7.
4. What are the safety features in BYD Sealion 7?
It includes 11 airbags, ADAS, 360-degree camera, and a tire pressure monitoring system.
5. What is the price difference between BYD Sealion 7 and BMW iX1 LWB?
The BYD Sealion 7 is expected to be priced around ₹45 lakh, while the BMW iX1 LWB is priced at ₹49 lakh.
6. Which one has better interior features?
BYD Sealion 7 takes the lead with a 15.6-inch touchscreen, ventilated seats, and a heads-up display.
Conclusion
Both the BYD Sealion 7 and BMW iX1 LWB bring unique strengths to the table. The Sealion 7 delivers better range, more space, and a feature-loaded cabin, while the iX1 LWB impresses with its powerful AWD variant and brand value. Your choice depends on what matters more—affordability and features or performance and brand prestige.
Stay updated with all the insights.
Navigate news, 1 email day.
Subscribe to Qrius
