BYD Sealion 7 vs Jeep Compass
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The BYD Sealion 7 starts from $49,990 before on-road costs, while the Jeep Compass opens at $50,500. That makes the BYD Sealion 7 the more affordable entry point by $510.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $54,989 and $55,550 respectively.
The BYD Sealion 7 qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Jeep Compass, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The BYD Sealion 7 features a 15.6-inch touchscreen, while the Jeep Compass gets a 10.1-inch display and 10.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BYD Sealion 7 stands out with power tailgate and Dynaudio audio that you will not find on the Jeep Compass. The Jeep Compass counters with wireless charging and heated front seats. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The BYD Sealion 7 uses a Electric producing 230kW and 380Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 4.5 seconds.
The Jeep Compass responds with a Petrol I4 Mild Hybrid + 48V making 96kW and 240Nm, paired to a 7-speed dual clutch automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10 seconds.
The BYD Sealion 7 has the clear power advantage at 230kW vs 96kW. In the real-world sprint, the BYD Sealion 7 is 5.5s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The BYD Sealion 7 measures 4,830mm long on a 2,930mm wheelbase, 426mm longer than the Jeep Compass at 4,404mm (2,636mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the BYD Sealion 7 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 400L in the BYD Sealion 7 and 438L in the Jeep Compass, giving the Jeep Compass a 38L advantage.
For towing, the Jeep Compass leads with a 1,450kg braked capacity vs 1,000kg. That 450kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.0m to 11.1m
Based on 11.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.1m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 6 years / 150,000km (BYD Sealion 7) vs 5 years / 100,000km (Jeep Compass). The BYD Sealion 7 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BYD Sealion 7 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, or prefer BYD's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Jeep Compass if: You need more boot space, need stronger towing, or prefer Jeep's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The BYD Sealion 7 takes 4 of 6 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the Jeep Compass has a clear edge. The BYD Sealion 7 adds peace of mind with a longer 6-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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