Denza B8 vs BYD Sealion 8
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 Denza B8 starts from $91,000 before on-road costs, while the BYD Sealion 8 opens at $56,990. That makes the BYD Sealion 8 the more affordable entry point by $34,010.
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 $100,100 and $62,689 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the BYD Sealion 8 by roughly $9,120 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Denza B8 and BYD Sealion 8 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 86% for the Denza B8 and 89% for the BYD Sealion 8.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The BYD Sealion 8 packs more ADAS features with 7 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 0 in the Denza B8.
Both include the essentials: core safety systems. The BYD Sealion 8 adds a 360-degree camera that the Denza B8 misses.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Denza B8 stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on the BYD Sealion 8. The BYD Sealion 8 counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, panoramic roof, heated front seats, ventilated seats and power tailgate. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Denza B8 uses a Petrol Turbo PHEV producing 425kW, sent through a 1-speed auto to a AWD layout.
The BYD Sealion 8 responds with a Petrol Turbo PHEV making 205kW and 315Nm, paired to a 1-speed auto driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8.6 seconds.
The Denza B8 has the clear power advantage at 425kW vs 205kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Denza B8 measures 5,195mm long, 155mm longer than the BYD Sealion 8 at 5,040mm (2,950mm wheelbase).
For towing, the Denza B8 leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 1,000kg. That 2,500kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.0m diameter
Good
Based on 11.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,138/year for the Denza B8 and $314/year for the BYD Sealion 8. That is a $1,824 annual difference in favour of the BYD Sealion 8.
Estimated annual total: $2,138 (Denza B8) vs $314 (BYD Sealion 8). The BYD Sealion 8 saves you roughly $1,824 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 6 years / 150,000km (Denza B8) vs 6 years / 150,000km (BYD Sealion 8). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Denza B8 if: You prioritise performance, need stronger towing, or prefer Denza's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BYD Sealion 8 if: You want the lower entry price, want lower running costs, or prefer BYD's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
This is genuinely close. The Denza B8 and BYD Sealion 8 trade blows across the spec sheet, and neither runs away with an outright win. The BYD Sealion 8 will save you roughly $1,824 a year in fuel. 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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