BYD (which is shorthand for ‘Build Your Dreams’) has been slowly creeping into the European car market for the last couple of years now. So far, the company has only launched electric cars, like the Atto 3 SUV, Seal saloon and Dolphin hatchback.

But BYD has recognised that electric cars aren’t quite as popular in the west as they were when it first broke into the market – and it’s launched the Seal U DM-i in response. It’s the first plug-in hybrid model to make it outside of the company’s home market of China, and it’s looking to topple the likes of the Ford Kuga, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson and Volkswagen Tiguan.

Confusingly, BYD also offers an electric-only Seal U in continental Europe but, in the UK, the only Seal U we’ll get is the DM-i model (for now, at least). The ‘DM’ stands for Dual Mode, pointing to the fact it’s a plug-in hybrid model that uses both electric and combustion engine power.

It’s available in three specifications: Boost, Comfort and Design – and they’re all well-equipped and exceptional value for money. Prices start from a shade over £33,000 for the Boost model and, for that, you get heated and cooled front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a wireless phone charger, a head-up display and BYD’s signature 15.6-inch rotating infotainment system.

The difference between the specifications is the performance. Boost models have an 18.3kWh battery pack, a 1.5-litre petrol engine and a single electric motor. Combined, the system produces 217hp which BYD says is enough for a 0–60mph time of 8.9 seconds. The Boost also has a maximum electric range of 50 miles.

Comfort models have the same engine and motor, but they’re fitted with a larger 26.6kWh battery that boosts its maximum electric driving range to 77 miles. It costs a little over £35,000 to put one on your driveway, which is staggering value.

The range-topping Design model is much faster, as it uses a turbocharged version of BYD’s 1.5-litre petrol engine and an extra electric motor on the rear axle. That kicks the Seal U’s output up to 324hp while slashing its 0–60mph time down to 5.9 seconds. However, because it uses the same 18.3kWh battery as the Boost model, it has the lowest electric driving range of the line-up at 43 miles.

Over the next few pages, we’ll assess each aspect of the BYD Seal U DM-i to let you know whether it’s worth opting for over its established competitors. We’ll explore the car’s practicality, safety, interior quality, technology, running costs and driving experience before offering our final verdict on the car.

If you’d like to learn more about how we reached our decision on the Seal U, check out our how we test cars explainer page.