I currently drive a BYD Seal U DM-i Boost, which has been a fantastic car overall. My only real complaint is that it’s quite slow, and I’d ideally like something with a bit more power and performance.

I’ve recently changed jobs, and my new employer requires me to have a company car. This means I’ll be getting rid of my privately leased Seal U and choosing between the Sealion 7 Excellence and the Seal U DM-i Comfort.

Initially, the Seal U Comfort works out cheaper per month. However, with the Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax increasing to 18% from 2028, the overall monthly cost eventually becomes very similar to the Sealion 7 Excellence.
This is where I’m struggling to decide.

The Sealion 7 Excellence appeals to me because of its performance, technology and overall specification. However, my biggest concern is the significantly reduced range compared with the Seal U DM-i, which can cover much longer distances thanks to its petrol engine.

On the other hand, the Seal U is something I’m already familiar with, and I love the practicality and flexibility of the hybrid system. I’m just not sure whether I’d regret choosing another one when I could have the much quicker Sealion 7 for roughly the same money.

For those who own a Sealion 7, particularly the Excellence:
How are you finding the real-world range, especially during winter?
Have you found switching from a hybrid or petrol car to fully electric inconvenient?
Is the performance and driving experience worth sacrificing the extra range?
If you were in my position, which would you choose?
I’ll be keeping the company car for four years, so I’m trying to make the right long-term decision.
Would really appreciate everyone’s thoughts and experiences. Thanks in advance!