BYD Sealion 8 vs Hyundai Staria
What's the difference?

BYD Sealion 8

$56,990 - $70,990

2026 price

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Hyundai Staria

$47,740 - $73,740

2026 price

View pricing & specs

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

Renault Megane E-Tech

Renault Scenic E-Tech

Summary

2026 BYD Sealion 8

2026 Hyundai Staria

By Emily Agar

By Mark Oastler

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Inline 4, 1.5L

Turbo 4, 1.6L

Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded/Electric

Fuel Efficiency

1.0L/100km (combined)

6.5L/100km (combined)

Energy consumption

—

Electric range

152 km

Battery capacity

35.60 kWh

Seating

Likes

Value
Efficiency
Performance

Hybrid performance & economy
One-tonne-plus payload
ANCAP safety rating

Dislikes

No physical spare tyre
Underwhelming drive experience
Clunky media system

No tow rating
Cargo load volume
Cabin noise at highway speeds

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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2026 Hyundai Staria Summary

Hyundai has recently launched an updated Staria Load range, with the most significant addition for buyers of mid-size (2.5 tonne-3.5 tonne GVM) commercial vans being the first-time availability of a hybrid drivetrain.

On paper this new HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) option brings numerous advantages over its diesel sibling, so we recently spent a week at the wheel to see if they are sufficient to win over traditional diesel van buyers.

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Deep dive comparison

2026 BYD Sealion 8 2026 Hyundai Staria

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

The Staria Load HEV offers numerous advantages over its diesel equivalent including superior fuel economy, lower exhaust emissions, higher power output and a bigger payload. However, it also has a higher purchase price and no tow rating, so careful analysis of your specific work requirements will determine if Hyundai’s new hybrid van is fit for purpose.

BYD Sealion 8 vs Hyundai Staria What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

BYD Sealion 8 vs Hyundai Staria
What's the difference?