Tesla Model Y vs BYD Celion 7: This is why Tesla got it

You can hardly look forward to a new mid-size electric SUV in 2025. This category has become the real battleground for the world’s car manufacturers and, for years now, Tesla Model Y Topping the sales charts. The planet’s best-selling car is a clear benchmark against which all newcomers are measured.

One of the latest optimists looking to challenge Tesla’s dominance world sealion 7 Comes from China with more hints about the Model Y. Tesla built its reputation on a minimalist, software-first approach, prioritizing range, efficiency and charging networks. Chinese battery and automotive giant BYD takes a more traditional route, focusing on premium materials, lavish interior design and a feature-rich experience as soon as you step inside.

Families and company car drivers switching to electric will have to make a decision. Can the Sealion 7’s build quality and luxurious cabin justify the higher price tag versus the newer refined and more affordable Model Y? We have compared both the cars to find out.

How we tested and compared

We’ve driven both the Tesla Model Y and the BYD Celion 7 extensively on a variety of roads in the UK and abroad. Close attention is paid to performance and handling when navigating around city centres, on country roads and at motorway speeds. As well as assessing ride quality, we put their infotainment systems through their paces and tested the practicality of their rear seats and boot capacity.

specification

Independent Rating: 6/10

Independent Rating: 9/10

Battery, range and charging

Winner: Tesla Model Y – It runs on a smaller, more efficient battery and is supported by a convenient charging network

The BYD Sealion 7 enters the fray with a larger top-spec battery of 91.3kWh, but only manages a maximum claimed range of 312 miles. The Sealion 7’s 230kW peak charging speed is respectable, but the short range means the overall efficiency is average.

In contrast, the newly updated Tesla Model Y offers a maximum range of 387 miles from a smaller and lighter 75kWh battery. Charging speeds are about the same at a peak of 250kW, but the Model Y benefits from Tesla’s greatest asset: the Supercharger network. The car’s navigation directs you to the best charger for any journey and automatically preconditions the battery before you arrive, a value-add that BYD can’t match.

performance and drive

Winner: Tesla Model Y – Its new refined suspension and composed handling make it a more comfortable and enjoyable car to drive

When it comes to performance, both the BYD Celion 7 and the Tesla Model Y deliver a rapid 0-62 mph time of 4.5 seconds and more than quick enough acceleration for any conditions. BYD is so proud of that figure that it puts it on a badge on the boot. Although the performance is the same, the difference is how they behave on the road.

Our full BYD Sealion 7 review describes the ride as an unsatisfactory combination of “wally and firm”. The mid-size SUV can feel lean and bouncy through corners, but it’s also strong over potholes, with unresponsive steering that fails to reach sporty performance figures.

This is where the new and updated Model Y steps up. The biggest flaw of the original car – its harsh ride – has been addressed. Our full Tesla Model Y review calls it “far more composed despite the ups and downs” and “a much more mature, even luxurious car.” Despite still being firm, the Model Y is no longer uncomfortable and is more pleasant to drive, which gives it an edge over BYD.

interior and practicality

Winner: BYD Sealion 7 – For its superior materials and premium cabin

This is where Sealion 7 delivers its most impressive blows. Once inside, the cabin really feels premium with high quality, plush materials and an intricate, flowing design. Build quality is impressive and passenger space is excellent, especially in the rear.

The Tesla Model Y’s minimalist cabin has been subtly upgraded with more comfortable seats and better materials, but it can’t match BYD’s traditional luxury or grand feel. For buyers who value luxuriousness and smart design, the Sealion 7 has a clear advantage.

In terms of practicality, both these mid-size SUVs are evenly matched. The BYD has a slightly larger 520-litre boot and 58-litre frunk, and with the seats folded it has a capacity of 1,789 litres. Tesla officially lists its boot size as 854 litres, although this is measured up to the roof. Measure the window-line like most brands and you’ll get something close to Sealion 7. Fold the seats and the Model Y has a total cargo volume of 2,138 litres.

cost and price

Winner: Tesla Model Y – cheaper to buy on all trim levels while offering significantly more range

Undercutting the market leader on price is a proven strategy for any challenger brand, so it’s strange that BYD has chosen to do the opposite. Prices for the entry-level Celian 7 start at £46,990, which is a full £2,000 more than the entry-level Tesla Model Y’s £44,990, despite Tesla offering more range for the money.

The price difference increases as you add more kits. The top-spec, all-wheel-drive Cilian 7 Excellence costs £58,990, while the new Model Y Long Range All-Wheel Drive looks cheaper at just £51,990. For your extra £7,000, BYD also gives you significantly less driving range. While BYD offers a longer vehicle warranty of six years compared to Tesla’s four, it’s not enough to overcome the fundamental shortcoming in price and performance – the value proposition isn’t in the Celerian 7’s favor.

Technology and Infotainment

Winner: Tesla Model Y – Tesla is famous for its efficient and integrated user experience, but BYD is not far behind when it comes to intuitive software. Compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also gives the Sealion 7 undeniable usability.

BYD has equipped the Sealion 7 with a showstopping 15.6in rotating touchscreen that’s crisp, responsive, and supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. With clever usability touches and a fantastic Dynaudio sound system, it’s an excellent standalone piece of kit.

The Tesla Model Y sticks to its minimalist principles with a 15.4in screen that controls everything. It still doesn’t offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which will be a deal-breaker for some people. However, its strength lies in its well-organized integrated software ecosystem. Native navigation, seamless link to Supercharger network and best-in-class smartphone app provides drivers a hassle-free user experience. The addition of a new 8-inch screen for the rear passengers is another advantage over the BYD.

Verdict: BYD Celion 7 vs Tesla Model Y

The BYD Celion 7 would be a compelling rival to the Tesla Model Y, but its pricing strategy has let it down out of the gate. It’s a roomy and well-built SUV with a premium-feeling interior and some excellent tech – in a vacuum, the Cilian 7 is an impressive car.

But in a market dominated by the Model Y, the Scion 7 lags behind Tesla in several key areas. The Sealion 7 is more expensive than its main rival, has a shorter range, is less efficient and offers a less restrained driving experience.

The 2025 update puts the Tesla Model Y back at the top of its game. It may not have the luxury feel of BYD’s cabin, but it is a better EV and a more rewarding and economical car to own and drive.

Check out our round-up of Best Electric Cars of 2025