BYD Sealion 8 vs Cupra Tavascan
What's the difference?

BYD Sealion 8

$56,990 - $70,990

2026 price

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Cupra Tavascan

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2025 price

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Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

Renault Megane E-Tech

Renault Scenic E-Tech

Summary

2026 BYD Sealion 8

2025 Cupra Tavascan

By Emily Agar

By Byron Mathioudakis

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Inline 4, 1.5L

Electric motor type

Permanent Magnet

Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded/Electric

Vehicle type

Battery Electric

Fuel Efficiency

1.0L/100km (combined)

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Energy consumption

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16.3 kWh/100km

Electric range

152 km

534 km

Battery capacity

35.60 kWh

77.00 kWh

Seating

Likes

Value
Efficiency
Performance

Dynamic capabilities
Value positioning
Sporty design

Dislikes

No physical spare tyre
Underwhelming drive experience
Clunky media system

No spare wheel
Base equipment levels not to China standards
Needs single-pedal driving/braking

2026 BYD Sealion 8 Summary

As the flagship variant, the BYD Sealion 8 Premium all-wheel drive makes a big first impression as it arrives with seven seats, a plug-in hybrid powertrain and a features list that reads like a wish list.

It’s also stepping into a competitive space, lining up against the Chery Tiggo 9 Super Hybrid, Kia Sorento GT-Line PHEV and Mazda CX-80 P50e Azami - all promising similar blends of efficiency, space and value for Australian families.

The Sealion 8 Premium looks like a strong contender on paper … but does that translate to the real world?

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2025 Cupra Tavascan Summary

Timing is everything.

For instance, with all the bad publicity the man behind the brand is generating, right now might be the perfect time if you’re in the market for a Tesla Model Y alternative.

And that’s especially so if said alternative happens to be around the same price… such as the all-new Cupra Tavascan.

No, not an antacid for relief from indigestion, but the Volkswagen Group’s Spanish brand’s first medium-sized electric SUV.

Is it good enough to catapult Cupra into the big time in Australia?

Time to find out!

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Deep dive comparison

2026 BYD Sealion 8 2025 Cupra Tavascan

Verdict

There’s no denying the value the BYD Sealion 8 Premium offers as it packs a lot in for the price. Its efficiency and inoffensive looks add up to a good package and reflect what it does well. That said, the underwhelming driving experience and clunky media system are noticeable. Whether they're deal breakers is up to you.

Verdict

Like most Cupras, the Tavascan is affordable, stylish, practical, fun to drive and just that little bit different.

And it is clear the Volkswagen Group is trying hard to make the brand a success. That it can bring that formula to the medium EV SUV market with as much aplomb might just be enough to lure more than a few would-be Model Y buyers Barcelona’s way.

Definitely one to strongly consider.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.

BYD Sealion 8 vs Cupra Tavascan What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

BYD Sealion 8 vs Cupra Tavascan
What's the difference?