Not too long ago, BYD Malaysia introduced a more affordable fully electric sedan to the Malaysian market — the BYD Seal 6. Interestingly, if you look it up online, the Seal 6 was initially meant to be a hybrid vehicle. However, for the Malaysian market, BYD Malaysia became the first in the world to launch the Seal 6 as a pure EV. Priced between RM100,000 and RM115,000, the Seal 6 occupies a very interesting position in Malaysia’s automotive landscape.

As an introduction, the Seal 6 is BYD’s C-segment contender, positioned against more established models like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. However, the Seal 6 undercuts both of these models in terms of price. BYD has priced it aggressively to attract buyers looking for a C-segment sedan. The Seal 6 is powered by a single electric motor located at the rear, making it a rear-wheel-drive vehicle. This motor produces 160 kW and 330 Nm of torque, allowing the Seal 6 to accelerate from 0–100 km/h in just 7.5 seconds, according to BYD’s figures.

BYD highlights six key areas where the Seal 6 stands out from its competitors. First is handling — the Seal 6 comes with a Dual Ball-Joint MacPherson Strut front suspension and a rear Multi-Link setup, a configuration typically found in continental cars. BYD has made this available to enhance driving dynamics. The rear-wheel-drive layout is also unique in the C-segment.

In terms of space, the Seal 6 is among the largest in its class, offering 24 smart storage compartments and up to 525 litres of combined boot space. Despite its size, it promises the best turning circle in its segment, thanks to the rear-wheel-drive setup that allows for a wider steering angle. And of course, the electric powertrain promises smoother, more responsive performance than a conventional internal combustion engine.

For our drive, we took the Seal 6 up to Janda Baik, then through the familiar Genting route up to Awana Resort for lunch, before heading back to Bamboo Hill. This route allowed us to test the car on highways, B-roads, and mountain passes — perfect for assessing how the Seal 6 handles different driving conditions.

Starting from Bamboo Hill to Janda Baik, this first stretch covered both highway cruising and spirited B-road driving. Behind the wheel, the Seal 6 performed admirably. It got up to speed smoothly and easily — exactly what you’d expect from a single-motor EV. The power delivery was linear and manageable, which makes it suitable for first-time EV buyers who might find high-output EVs intimidating.

On the highway, the sound insulation was decent for its price range. While some road noise was noticeable, it wasn’t excessive or uncomfortable. Compared to models like the Honda City or Toyota Vios, the Seal 6 still offers a quieter cabin experience — especially since there’s no engine noise. The car also felt composed through high-speed bends, maintaining stability and driver confidence.

Once we reached Genting Sempah, we took on the twisty B-roads to our destination. On these tighter roads, the Seal 6’s steering response was quite sharp, and the car reacted well to driver input. However, when switching quickly from one direction to another, the car’s weight became apparent — a natural trait given its 2-tonne mass.

The ride comfort was also commendable. The suspension is tuned primarily for comfort but retains a sense of sophistication. Like the Atto 3, it absorbed most road imperfections effectively, though it felt more planted and less floaty — a notable improvement. Overall, the Seal 6 handled various road conditions with composure and ease. Most Malaysian drivers will find it a pleasant daily companion.

During our first stop, BYD treated us to durian — and cleverly demonstrated the Seal 6’s frunk (front trunk) storage. It’s a practical solution for keeping odorous fruits (like durian) out of the main cabin. Combined with the large rear boot, this brings the total storage capacity to 525 litres, enhancing overall practicality.

For the next leg to Awana Resort, my driving partner took over while I rode as a passenger. The front seats were comfortable and spacious, though not the most heavily bolstered. For someone of a larger build like me, they provided good support and ease of entry and exit. The ventilated and heated seat functions further elevated the comfort. After lunch, we headed back to Bamboo Hill to return the cars to BYD.

At the end of the day, BYD has introduced a compelling option for those who prefer sedans over SUVs. In its price bracket, there are few sedans as large or as well-equipped as the Seal 6. Being larger than most competitors in its segment, it represents a strong value proposition. If you have a small family or simply prefer a sedan to an SUV, the BYD Seal 6 deserves your attention — it could very well be your first EV.