BYD BARKS AND RIDES..

BYD has expanded its presence in Ireland with its fifth model in two years - the sporty mid-size Sealion 7 SÚV.

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A good bit larger than the Seal U SUV they launched last year, the Sealion 7 is BYD's Tesla Model Y competitor and doesn't look overly dissimilar and even feels very like it on the road with similar bonkers performance stats.

We took the roomy new Sealion for a quick jaunt in Co Meath this week and as always left a little shocked at just how quick these electric SUVs are. It's snap your neck stuff that no family SUV could possible need but that's electric cars for you and it might get you out of trouble one day.

Entry to the range begins with a single-motor, rear-wheel-drive 'Comfort' edition, followed by all-wheel-drive models Design and Excellence each fitted with a rich selection of all-inclusive standard specifications.

Prices begin from €45,435 for the entry-level Comfort model.

HEAD-TURNER

It's 160mm taller and 30mm longer than its Seal U stablemate and the generous passenger and load-carrying interior spaciousness is masked by a svelte, aerodynamic body whose streamlined 'ocean' aesthetics define its outer appearance.