The 2025 BYD Sealion 7 enters the competitive mid-size electric SUV market with a strong value proposition, aiming to challenge established players like the Tesla Model Y. While it impresses with its spacious interior, advanced features, and competitive pricing, some aspects of its driving dynamics may need refinement.
7.9/10
CarExplore Overall Comparative Score
This score reflects the aggregated ratings from CarExpert (8.0/10), CarsGuide (8.1/10), WhichCar (8.0/10), and Drive (7.5/10). Chasing Cars did not provide a numerical rating.
Quick Facts
- Price: $76,990 drive-away
- Engine: 3.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel
- Power/Torque: 140kW/450Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic
- Fuel Economy (Claimed): 8.0L/100km
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L 4-cylinder turbo-diesel |
| Power | 140kW @ 3600rpm |
| Torque | 450Nm @ 1600-2600rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Drive Type | Part-time 4WD |
| Ground Clearance | 244mm (front), 215mm (rear) |
| Approach/Departure/Breakover Angles | 29.2°/19.2°/25.2° |
| Wading Depth | 800mm |
| Kerb Weight | 2204kg |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Improved ride quality and handling
- Enhanced off-road capabilities
- Distinctive styling upgrades
- Spacious and practical interior
- Strong safety features
Cons:
- High price point
- Unchanged powertrain
- Some cheap interior materials
- Limited rear headroom
- Overzealous driver monitoring system
Expert Review Summaries
CarExpert
Rating: 8.0/10
- Pros: Improved ride and handling, enhanced off-road ability, distinctive styling
- Cons: High price, unchanged powertrain, some cheap interior materials
Summary: "The Blade is the best D-Max ever sold in Australia, offering improved dynamics and off-road capability, though at a premium price." Read the full review
CarsGuide
Rating: 8.1/10
- Pros: Improved suspension, distinctive looks, strong off-road performance
- Cons: Expensive, unchanged engine, overzealous safety systems
Summary: "The D-Max Blade offers a compelling package for those looking to make the switch to a premium ute, with improved dynamics and styling." Read the full review
WhichCar
Rating: 8.0/10
- Pros: Enhanced off-road ability, improved ride quality, distinctive styling
- Cons: High price, unchanged powertrain, some interior quirks
Summary: "The D-Max Blade brings welcome improvements to the D-Max formula, offering a more refined and capable package for premium ute buyers." Read the full review
Drive
Rating: 7.5/10
- Pros: Improved ride and handling, enhanced off-road capability, distinctive looks
- Cons: Expensive, unchanged engine, some cheap interior materials
Summary: "The D-Max Blade offers tangible improvements over the standard D-Max, but its high price and unchanged powertrain may limit its appeal." Read the full review
CarExplore's Take on the 2025 Isuzu D-Max Blade
The Isuzu D-Max Blade represents a significant step up for the D-Max range, offering enhanced off-road capabilities and distinctive styling upgrades. Developed in collaboration with Walkinshaw, the Blade brings improvements in suspension, ground clearance, and overall dynamics.
The most notable changes are in ride quality and handling, with reviewers consistently praising the Blade's more refined on-road manners and improved off-road capabilities. The suspension upgrades, including larger dampers and a lift kit, contribute to a more comfortable and controlled ride.
Styling upgrades give the Blade a more aggressive and premium appearance, helping it stand out in the crowded ute market. The interior, while largely unchanged from the LS-U model it's based on, offers good space and practicality.
However, the Blade's high price point and unchanged powertrain are points of contention. At $76,990 drive-away, it's significantly more expensive than the standard D-Max, and some reviewers question whether the upgrades justify the premium.
The 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine, while capable, remains unchanged from the standard D-Max, which may disappoint those expecting more power to match the Blade's enhanced capabilities.Safety features are comprehensive, though some reviewers noted that the driver monitoring system can be overzealous.
Ideal For: Buyers seeking a premium ute with enhanced off-road capabilities and distinctive styling, who are willing to pay a premium for Australian-developed upgrades.
Consider Alternatives If: You're looking for more power, need a lower price point, or want the absolute latest in-cabin technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the D-Max Blade compare to rivals like the Ford Ranger Wildtrak?
A: The Blade offers similar off-road enhancements and styling upgrades, but with a lower price point. However, it lacks some of the Ranger's advanced tech features.
Are there any changes to the D-Max Blade's towing capacity?
A: No, the Blade maintains the standard D-Max's 3500kg braked towing capacity.
What warranty does Isuzu offer on the D-Max Blade?
A: The Blade comes with Isuzu's standard 6-year/150,000km warranty.
How much additional ground clearance does the Blade have over the standard D-Max?
A: The Blade offers an additional 22.5mm of front lift and 25mm of rear lift compared to the standard D-Max.
Are there any plans for a more powerful engine option in the D-Max Blade?
A: As of now, Isuzu has not announced plans for a more powerful engine option in the Blade.
