Hyundai i20 vs BYD SEALION 5 DM-i
A proper head-to-head in South Africa — compare price, performance, fuel economy or electric range, safety and the details that shape long-term ownership.
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Hyundai i20
1.0T Fluid
Petrol
6-Speed Manual
Current
ZAR 328,900
ex-showroom
⚡ 74 kW
🔧 172 Nm
⛽ 14.5 km/l
VS
BYD SEALION 5 DM-i
Dynamic DM-i
Plug-in Hybrid
e-CVT
Current
ZAR 569,900
ex-showroom
⚡ 72 kW
🔧 122 Nm
⛽ 19.2 km/l
＋
Add a 3rd car
Decision summary
Hyundai i20 vs BYD SEALION 5 DM-i: the short answer
i20 and SEALION 5 DM-i are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
i20 starts ZAR 213,000 cheaper
i20 from ZAR 296,900 · SEALION 5 DM-i from ZAR 509,900
Five key differences
Exact selected derivativesSwipe sideways to compare every column
| Specification | i20 | SEALION 5 DM-i |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power | i2074 kW @ 5500 rpm | SEALION 5 DM-i72 kW @ 6000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | i20172 Nm @ 1500 rpm | SEALION 5 DM-i122 Nm @ 4000-4500 rpm |
| Engine Size | i20998 cc | SEALION 5 DM-i1498 cc |
| Combined Fuel Economy | i2014.5 km/l | SEALION 5 DM-i19.2 km/l |
| Ground Clearance | i20195 mm | SEALION 5 DM-i150 mm |
Strongest published figure in that row; no road-test winner is implied.
Independent editorial assessment
Hagalu editorial ratings
When a variant is selected, its rating out of five applies only to that exact derivative; a model-range review is not inherited. Editorial ratings are separate from the Specification Evidence Index out of 100 and are not customer ratings.
BYD SEALION 5 DM-i
Dynamic DM-i
Hagalu editorial rating
4.4/5
★★★★★★★★★★
Desk research · Exact variant
Hagalu Editorial Team ·
Editorial assessment, not a customer rating. Not road-tested for this review.
Read the review and score breakdown →Not yet rated means a complete review is not published; it does not mean the vehicle scored zero. Read the rating methodology.
What Each Car Gets Right (and Wrong)
i20
Strengths
- Nothing stands out clearly here.
Weak Spots
- Less powerful engine setup
- Lower fuel efficiency
- Fewer listed safety features
Best suited to:
General Use
Specification evidence leader
SEALION 5 DM-i
Strengths
- More powerful engine output
- Better fuel efficiency
- Stronger listed safety equipment
Weak Spots
- No obvious weak spots to flag.
Best suited to:
Published Performance
Published Efficiency
Which One's Right for You?
i20
- Buyers who prefer this derivative's confirmed specification mix
SEALION 5 DM-i
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published powertrain figures
- Buyers prioritising the lower published fuel or energy use
- Buyers prioritising the more complete listed safety equipment
Full Specs, Side by Side
Open a category, then swipe sideways to compare every column
| Spec | i20 | SEALION 5 DM-i |
|---|---|---|
| Model Introduced Year | 2008 | 2026 |
| Generation | Third generation i20 on the K2 platform; sold in SA with 1.0T three-cylinder turbo across all variants | First South African SEALION 5 DM-i generation |
| Facelift History | Third generation launched globally in 2020 and arrived in SA shortly after; significant improvement over the second gen in styling, tech, and driving dynamics | No separately marketed South African facelift announced as at August 2026 |
| Facelift Launched Since | 2020 | Original current-generation version |
| Facelift Version Ending | Current | Current |
| Body Style | Hatchback | SUV |
| Color Note | White, Black, Silver, Blue, Red, Yellow | - |
| Dealer Stock Note | Fluid grade in the South Africa lineup | - |
| Model Year | 2026 | 2026 |
| Production Status | active | Active |
| Segment | Hatchback | Medium SUV |
| Tare Mass Kg | 1135 kg | - |
| Vehicle Type | Hatchback | Passenger vehicle |
| Spec | i20 | SEALION 5 DM-i |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4040 mm | 4738 mm |
| Width | 1775 mm | 1860 mm |
| Height | 1505 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2580 mm | 2712 mm |
| Ground Clearance (Default) | 195 mm | 150 mm |
| Ground Clearance (With Full Seating Load) | Not Officially Disclosed | 150 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 l | 52 l |
| Boot/Cargo Space | 352 l | 463 l |
| Kerb Weight | 1135 kg | 1735 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 1610 kg | 2145 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 475 kg | 410 kg |
| Towing Capacity | Not Officially Disclosed | 0 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Rows | 2 rows | 2 rows |
| Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Minimum Turning Radius | 5.2 m | 6.0 m |
| Front Headroom | Not Officially Disclosed | 970 mm |
| Rear Headroom | Not Officially Disclosed | 910 mm |
| Front Legroom | Not Officially Disclosed | 1100 mm |
| Rear Legroom | Not Officially Disclosed | 935 mm |
| Spec | i20 | SEALION 5 DM-i |
|---|---|---|
| Front Track Width | 1551 mm | - |
| Rear Track Width | 1565 mm | - |
| Front Suspension | MacPherson Strut | MacPherson strut |
| Rear Suspension | Torsion Beam | Multi-link |
| Chassis Type | Monocoque | - |
| Power Steering | Electric | - |
| Steering Column | Tilt | - |
| Front Spring Type | Coil | - |
| Rear Spring Type | Coil | - |
| Chassis Material | Monocoque | - |
| Front Suspension Type | MacPherson Strut | MacPherson strut |
| MagneRide Damping | Not Available | - |
| Rear Axle Type | Torsion Beam | - |
| Rear Suspension Type | Torsion Beam | Multi-link |
| Suspension | MacPherson Strut | - |
| Spec | i20 | SEALION 5 DM-i |
|---|---|---|
| Load Bed Length | Not Applicable | - |
| Load Bed Width | Not Applicable | - |
| Climate Control | Auto Climate Control | Automatic |
| Power Windows | All | Standard |
| Keyless Entry | Yes | Standard |
| Push Button Start | Yes | Standard |
| Wireless Charging | Yes | Standard |
| Sunroof | Sunroof | Panoramic |
| Electric Tailgate | Not Available | Standard |
| Automatic Headlamps | Yes | - |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | No | Standard |
| Auto Dimming Mirror | No | - |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | 1165 l | - |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | 1165 l | - |
| Rear Window Defroster | Yes | - |
| Electric Mirror Folding | Power Adjustable | - |
| Follow Me Home Headlamps | Yes | - |
| 12V Accessory Socket | 12V | - |
| AC Type | Auto Climate Control | Automatic |
| Adaptive Dampers | Not Available | - |
| Auto Dimming Irvm | No | - |
| Boot Opener | Inside | - |
| Climate Zones | 1 | - |
| Door Ajar Warning | Yes | - |
| Electric Folding Mirrors | Yes | - |
| Engine Check Warning | Yes | - |
| Engine Start Button Illumination | Yes | - |
| Engine Start Stop | Yes | Standard |
| Engine Start Stop Button | Yes | Standard |
| Engine Warranty | 4 | - |
| Front Armrest | Yes | - |
| Front Power Outlet | Yes | - |
| Fuel Consumption Combined | 6.9 | - |
| Fuel Lid Opener | Inside | - |
| Glovebox Cooling | Yes | - |
| Headlamp Height Adjust | Manual | - |
| Headlamp Washer | No | - |
| Hill Start Assist | Yes | - |
| Panoramic Roof | Sunroof | Panoramic |
| Performance Data Logger | Not Available | - |
| Power Mirrors | Yes | - |
| Push Button Start | Yes | Standard |
| Rear Defogger | Yes | - |
| Rear Reading Lamps | Yes | - |
| Rear Seat Split | 60/40 Split | - |
| Rear Wing | Yes | - |
| Rev Matching | Not Available | - |
| Seat Type | Leather-Look | - |
| Seatbelt Pre Tensioner | Yes | - |
| Service Reminder | Yes | - |
| Skid Plates | Not Available | - |
| Spare Wheel | Spare Wheel | Tyre repair kit |
| Steering Mounted Controls | Yes | - |
| Tachometer | Yes | - |
| Tail Lamps | Yes | - |
| Telescopic Steering | No | - |
| Tilt Steering | Yes | - |
| Trip Computer | Yes | - |
| Vanity Mirror | Yes | - |
| Voice Command | Yes | - |
| Voice Command Support | Yes | - |
| Accelerator 0 100 | 11.0 sec | - |
| Air Conditioning | Auto Climate Control | Automatic |
| Battery Preconditioning | Not Available | - |
| Bed Extender | Not Available | - |
| Bottle Holders | 4 | - |
| Canopy Fitment | Not Available | - |
| Centre Console | Yes | - |
| Common Rail Injection | Direct Injection | - |
| Diff Lock | No | - |
| Difflock | No | - |
| Digital Speedometer | Analogue + MID | - |
| Front Diff Lock | Not Available | - |
| Front Wiper | Yes | - |
| Front Wipers Type | Yes | - |
| Glove Box | Yes | - |
| Intelligent Battery System | Not Available | - |
| Intelligent Keyless Entry | Yes | - |
| Load Bed Cover | Not Available | - |
| Load Bed Light | Not Available | - |
| Load Bed Steps | Not Available | - |
| Loadbox Depth Mm | Not Available | - |
| Loadbox Length Mm | Not Applicable | - |
| Loadbox Rope Hooks | Not Available | - |
| Loadbox Tiedown Brackets | Not Available | - |
| Loadbox Width Mm | Not Applicable | - |
| Manual Aircon | Auto Climate Control | - |
| Mirror | Power Adjustable | - |
| One Pedal Driving | Not Available | - |
| Passive Entry Start | Yes | - |
| Power Socket 12v | 12V | - |
| Reading Lights Rear | Yes | - |
| Rear Air Conditioning | No | - |
| Rear Diff Lock | Not Available | - |
| Rear Electric Motor | Not Available | - |
| Rear LED Combination Taillights | Yes | - |
| Rearview Mirror Inside | No | - |
| Regenerative Braking Levels | Not Available | - |
| Remote Central Locking | Yes | - |
| Remote Side Mirror | Power Adjustable | - |
| Rim Size | 16 | 18 |
| Roof Rack Compatibility | No | - |
| Sonar | Front & Rear | - |
| Sound System | 8 Bose Premium | 6 |
| Source Model Column | i20 | - |
| Sport Plus Mode | Not Available | - |
| Sports Bar | Not Available | - |
| Steering Column Adjustment | Tilt & Telescopic | - |
| Sub Frame | Monocoque | - |
| Tailgate Damper | Not Available | - |
| Tailgate Lock | Not Available | - |
| Tow Bar Type | Not Available | - |
| TPMS | Yes | Standard |
| Trim Level | fluid | - |
| Unlocking | Yes | Standard |
| Vanity Mirror Illuminated | Yes | - |
| Variant Role | Mid-to-high value derivative | - |
| Vdc | Yes | - |
| Vehicle To Grid | Not Available | - |
| Vehicle To Load | Not Available | - |
| Walk Away Auto Door Lock | Yes | - |
| Walk Away Lock | Yes | - |
| Wireless Charger | Yes | Standard |
| Spec | i20 | SEALION 5 DM-i |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1-litre Turbocharged Petrol | 1.5-litre Naturally Aspirated Petrol Plug-in Hybrid |
| Engine Code | G3LE | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Plug-in Hybrid |
| Hybrid System | Not Applicable | Series-Parallel Hybrid |
| Engine Displacement | 998 cc | 1498 cc |
| Cylinders | 3 | 4 |
| Cylinder Layout | Inline | Inline |
| Valves | 12 | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | Naturally Aspirated |
| Fuel System | Direct Injection | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Bore | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Stroke | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Maximum Power | 74 kW @ 5500 rpm | 72 kW @ 6000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 172 Nm @ 1500 rpm | 122 Nm @ 4000-4500 rpm |
| Combined Power | Not Applicable | 156 kW |
| Combined Torque | Not Applicable | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Motor Type | Not Applicable | Permanent Magnet Synchronous |
| Number of Motors | Not Applicable | 1 |
| Motor Location | Not Applicable | Front |
| Drive Type | FWD | FWD |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual | e-CVT |
| Top Speed | 185 km/h | 170 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | 11.0 sec | 8.3 sec |
| Quarter Mile | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Drive Modes | Eco, Normal | Eco, Normal, Sport, Snow |
| Launch Control | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Rev Limiter | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 65.2 kW/tonne | 89.9 kW/tonne |
| Torque-to-Weight Ratio | 151.5 Nm/tonne | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | 12.96 kWh |
| Usable Battery Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Battery Type | Not Applicable | LFP |
| Battery Voltage | Not Applicable | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Electric Range | Not Applicable | 52 km (WLTP) |
| AC Charging Power | Not Applicable | 3.3 kW |
| DC Charging Power | Not Applicable | Not Officially Disclosed |
| AC Charging Time | Not Applicable | 4 h 30 min |
| DC Charging Time | Not Applicable | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Regenerative Braking | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Spec | i20 | SEALION 5 DM-i |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Position | Front | - |
| Gearbox | iMT 6-speed Intelligent Manual | e-CVT |
| Drivetrain Layout | FWD | Front-engine, front-wheel drive |
| LSD Available | No | Not Available |
| Transfer Case | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Differential Lock | No | Not Available |
| Paddle Shifters | No | Not Applicable |
| Final Drive Ratio | Not Applicable | 3.3 |
| Number of Gears | 7 | Not Applicable |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Clutch Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Gear Shift Indicator | Yes | Standard |
| Gear Shift Type | iMT 6-speed Intelligent Manual | Gearshift lever |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive | FWD |
| 4WD Engagement | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Hi Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Lo Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Selector | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Automatic Shift Paddles | No | Not Applicable |
| Differential Type Front | Not Available | - |
| Differential Type Rear | Not Available | - |
| Front Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Gearbox Type | iMT 6-speed Intelligent Manual | Electronically controlled continuously variable transmission |
| Low Range Ratio | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Low Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Axle Layout | Front-Wheel Drive | 4x2 |
| Rear Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Transfer Case Guard | Not Available | - |
| Transmission Speeds | 7 | Not Applicable |
| Spec | i20 | SEALION 5 DM-i |
|---|---|---|
| Claimed Mileage | 14.5 km/l | 19.2 km/l |
| City Mileage | 11.7 km/l | 14.9 km/l |
| Highway Mileage | 17.1 km/l | 19.6 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 l | 52 l |
| Emission Standard | Euro 6 | Euro 5 |
| AdBlue Tank Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Auto Start Stop | No | Integrated hybrid engine stop/start |
| Distance To Empty | Yes | - |
| Low Fuel Warning | Yes | - |
| Real-world Mileage | 14.5 km/l | 19.2 km/l |
| Charging Port Type | Not Applicable | Type 2 AC |
| Charging Type | Not Applicable | AC |
| Fuel Tank Litres | 40 | 52 |
| Combined Driving Range | Not Applicable | 1001 km |
| Electric Consumption | Not Applicable | 11.0 kWh/100 km (owner-reported cumulative) |
| Range Real World Highway | Not Applicable | 1071 km |
| Range Real World Mixed | Not Applicable | 912 km |
| Spec | i20 | SEALION 5 DM-i |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 6 | 6 |
| ABS | Yes | Standard |
| Electronic Stability Control | Yes | Standard |
| Traction Control | Yes | Standard |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Available | Standard |
| Hill Start Assist | Yes | Standard |
| Child Safety Lock | Yes | Standard |
| ISOFIX Mounts | Yes | Standard |
| Brake Assist | Yes | Standard |
| Tyre Pressure Monitor | Yes | Standard |
| Engine Immobiliser | Yes | Standard |
| Alarm System | Yes | - |
| Central Locking | Yes | - |
| Seatbelt Warning All Seats | Yes | Standard |
| Speed Alert System | Yes | - |
| Front Parking Sensors | Front & Rear | Standard |
| Safety Rating | Not Rated (SA) | - |
| AEB | No | Standard |
| BA | Yes | Standard |
| Brake Override System | Not Available | Standard |
| Curtain Airbags | Yes | Standard |
| Driver Airbag | Yes | Standard |
| EBD | Yes | Standard |
| Engine Immobiliser | Yes | Standard |
| Hill Hold | Yes | Standard |
| Passenger Airbag | Yes | Standard |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Yes | Standard |
| Seatbelt Pretensioners | Yes | Standard |
| Seatbelt Reminder | Yes | Standard |
| Side Airbags | Yes | Standard |
| Stability Control | Yes | Standard |
| TCS | Yes | Standard |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Yes | - |
| Knee Airbag | Not Available | Not Available |
| ABS EBD | Yes | Standard |
| Anti Theft Alarm | Yes | - |
| Driver Front Passenger Airbags | 6 | - |
| Driver Passenger Airbags | 6 | - |
| ESC With Traction Control | Yes | - |
| Spec | i20 | SEALION 5 DM-i |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Control | Yes | Standard |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Yes | Standard |
| Lane Keep Assist | Yes | Standard |
| Lane Departure Warning | Yes | Standard |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Yes | Standard |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Yes | Standard |
| Parking Sensors | Front & Rear | Standard |
| Rear View Camera | Yes | Standard |
| 360 Degree Camera | Not Available | Standard |
| Autonomous Emergency Braking | No | Standard |
| Driver Fatigue Alert | Not Available | Not Available |
| Traffic Sign Recognition | No | Standard |
| Auto Highbeam | Not Available | Standard |
| Auto Lights | Yes | - |
| Auto Wipers | No | Standard |
| Eco Mode | Yes | - |
| EV Mode | No | - |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Front & Rear | Standard |
| Reverse Camera | Yes | Standard |
| Sport Mode | No | - |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Yes | Standard |
| Park Assist | Not Available | Standard |
| Around View Monitor | Not Available | Standard |
| Blind Spot Warning | Yes | Standard |
| Emergency Braking | No | - |
| Forward Collision Warning | Not Available | Standard |
| Parking Distance Sensors | Front & Rear | - |
| Parking Sensor | Front & Rear | - |
| Pre-Collision System | Yes | - |
| Rain Sensor Wipers | No | - |
| Rear View Camera | Yes | - |
| Reverse Camera Type | Yes | - |
| Reversing Camera | Yes | - |
| Spec | i20 | SEALION 5 DM-i |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Material | Leather-Look | Synthetic leather |
| Seat Adjustment | Manual | - |
| Heated Seats | Front | Standard |
| Ventilated Seats | No | Standard |
| Steering Type | Electric | - |
| Steering Adjustment | Tilt & Telescopic | - |
| Ambient Lighting | Yes | Standard |
| Folding Rear Seats | 60/40 Split | - |
| Front Armrest | Yes | - |
| Rear Armrest | No | - |
| Front Shoulder Room | Not Applicable | - |
| Rear Shoulder Room | Not Applicable | - |
| Cup Holders | 4 | - |
| Rear AC Vents | No | - |
| Rear USB Ports | 2 USB-A + 1 USB-C | - |
| Steering Wheel Material | Leather | Synthetic leather |
| Instrument Cluster Type | Analogue + MID | - |
| Interior Colour Options | Black | - |
| Door Map Pockets | Yes | - |
| 60 40 Split Seat | Yes | Standard |
| Adjustable Driver Seat | Manual | - |
| Adjustable Front Seat | Manual | - |
| Cooled Seats | No | - |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | Manual | Electric adjustment |
| Fabric Seats | Yes | - |
| Front Headrest | Yes | - |
| Leather Seats | No | - |
| Memory Seats | No | - |
| Passenger Seat Adjustment | Manual | Electric adjustment |
| Rear Headrest | Yes | - |
| Armrest Front | Yes | - |
| Armrest Rear | No | - |
| Boot Space Seats Down | 1165 | - |
| Driver Seat | Manual | - |
| Interior Courtesy Lamps | 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on Fluid, digital instrument cluster, sporty flat-bottom steering wheel, quality-feeling interior | - |
| Interior Trim Colour | Black | - |
| Leather Accented Seat Trim | Leather-Look | - |
| Interior Colours | Black | - |
| Rear Seat Centre Armrest | No | - |
| Seat Belt Warning | Yes | - |
| Seat Fold Type | 60/40 Split | - |
| Seat Trim | Leather-Look | Synthetic leather |
| Spec | i20 | SEALION 5 DM-i |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | 10.25-inch Touchscreen | 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen |
| Apple CarPlay | Yes | Standard |
| Android Auto | Yes | Standard |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Yes | Standard |
| Number of Speakers | 8 Bose Premium | 6 |
| Navigation System | Yes | - |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | 10.25-inch Digital Cluster | Full LCD instrument display |
| USB Ports | 2 USB-A + 1 USB-C | Front and rear USB-A/USB-C ports |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | Yes | Standard |
| Wireless Android Auto | Yes | Standard |
| FM Radio | Yes | - |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | Yes | - |
| Voice Recognition | Yes | - |
| AUX Input | Yes | - |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 10.25-inch Touchscreen | 12.8 |
| Audio Controls On Steering | Yes | - |
| Infotainment Display | Touchscreen | - |
| Rear Usb | Yes | - |
| Audio | Yes | - |
| Audio Speakers | 8 Bose Premium | 6 |
| Audio System | Yes | - |
| Display Audio | 10.25-inch Touchscreen | - |
| Front Rear USB Charge Ports | 2 USB-A + 1 USB-C | - |
| Infotainment Screen | 10.25-inch Touchscreen | 12.8 |
| Multi Information Display | Analogue + MID | - |
| Connected Services | Yes | - |
| Voice Control | Yes | - |
| Smartphone Connectivity | Yes | - |
| Radio | Yes | - |
| Touchscreen | 10.25-inch Touchscreen | 12.8 |
| Spec | i20 | SEALION 5 DM-i |
|---|---|---|
| LED Headlamps | Yes | Standard |
| Daytime Running Lamps | LED | LED |
| Fog Lamps | Yes | Rear fog lamp |
| Roof Rails | No | Standard |
| Alloy Wheel Design | 17-inch Alloy | - |
| Rear Spoiler | Yes | - |
| Exterior Colour Options | Polar White, Aurora Grey, Phantom Black, Fiery Red | Atlantis Grey, Obsidian Black, Snow White, Time Grey |
| Roof Type | Sunroof | - |
| Wing Mirror Type | Power Adjustable | - |
| Rear Wiper | Yes | - |
| Door Handle Finish | Body Coloured | - |
| Body Type | Hatchback | - |
| DRL | LED | LED |
| Fog Lights | Yes | - |
| Front Fog Lights | Yes | - |
| Led Headlights | Yes | Standard |
| Led Taillights | Yes | - |
| Auto Headlights | Yes | - |
| Automatic Headlamps | Yes | - |
| Daytime Running Lights | LED | LED |
| Electric Blind Sunroof | Sunroof | - |
| Exterior Colour Options | 6 | - |
| Exterior Door Handle Colour | Body Coloured | - |
| Exterior Mirror Electric | Yes | - |
| Exterior Mirror Folding | Power Adjustable | - |
| Front Fog Lamps | Yes | Rear fog lamp |
| Headlamp Levelling | Yes | - |
| Headlamps | Yes | Standard |
| Headlight Type | Yes | Standard |
| Headlights | Yes | Standard |
| Load Bed Liner | Not Available | - |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Sunroof | Standard |
| Active Exhaust | Not Available | - |
| Rear Spoiler | Yes | - |
| Spec | i20 | SEALION 5 DM-i |
|---|---|---|
| Approach Angle | - | 18 deg |
| Departure Angle | - | 22 deg |
| Wading Depth | - | 363.6 mm |
| Terrain Modes | Not Available | Snow |
| Locking Differential | No | Not Available |
| Underbody Protection | Not Available | - |
| Ramp Breakover Angle | 20 deg | - |
| 4WD System Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Available | Standard |
| Ramp-over Angle | 20 deg | - |
| Approach Angle Deg | - | - |
| Breakover Angle | 20 deg | Not Available |
| Departure Angle Deg | - | - |
| Energy Recovery Display | Not Available | - |
| Front Skid Plate Guard | Not Available | - |
| Ground Clearance Max | 195 mm | - |
| Ground Clearance Min | 195 mm | - |
| Off Road Descent Control | Not Available | - |
| Off Road Traction Assist | Not Available | - |
| Crawl Control | Not Available | - |
| Rear Skid Plate Guard | Not Available | - |
| Skid Plates Fuel Tank | Not Available | - |
| Skid Plates Transfer Case | Not Available | - |
| Terrain Mode Mud | Not Available | - |
| Terrain Mode Normal | Not Available | - |
| Terrain Mode Rock | Not Available | - |
| Terrain Mode Sand | Not Available | - |
| Terrain Mode Snow | Not Available | - |
| Terrain Response System | Not Available | - |
| Underbody Camera | Not Available | - |
| Wading Depth Mm | - | - |
| Spec | i20 | SEALION 5 DM-i |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Size | 205/45 R17 | 225/60 R18 |
| Wheel Type | 17-inch Alloy | - |
| Front Brake Type | Disc | Ventilated disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Disc | Disc |
| Spare Wheel Type | Spare Wheel | Tyre repair kit |
| Front Brake Disc Diameter | 256 mm | - |
| Rear Brake Drum Diameter | 262 mm | - |
| Parking Brake Type | Manual | - |
| Tyre Load Index | 91 | - |
| Tyre Speed Rating | H | - |
| Wheel Rim Size | 16 | 18 |
| Brake Type Front | Disc (Ventilated) | - |
| Brake Type Rear | Disc | - |
| Spare Tyre | Spare Wheel | Tyre repair kit |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless Radial | - |
| Wheel Diameter | 16 | 18 |
| Auto Brake Hold | Manual | - |
| Autonomous Emergency Brake | No | - |
| Brakes | Disc | - |
| Cornering Brake Control | Yes | - |
| Electric Park Brake | Manual | - |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | Yes | - |
| Fifth Wheel Prep | Not Available | - |
| Handbrake Type | Manual | Electronic parking brake |
| Hydraulic Brake Assist | Yes | - |
| Leather Steering Wheel | Leather | - |
| Spare Wheel Size Type | Spare Wheel | - |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | Yes | - |
| Steering Wheel Cruise Controls | Yes | - |
| Steering Wheel Phone Controls | Yes | - |
| Steering Wheel Trim | Leather | - |
| Tyre Pressure Display | Yes | - |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | Yes | Standard |
| Wheel Material | 17-inch Alloy | - |
| Wheel Size Type | 16 | - |
| Wheels | 17-inch Alloy | - |
| Spec | i20 | SEALION 5 DM-i |
|---|---|---|
| Service Interval | 15000 km / 12 months | - |
| Battery Warranty | 4 | - |
| Maintenance Plan | 3 Years / 45000 km | - |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 3.6 l | - |
| Engine Oil Change Interval | 15000 | - |
| First Service At | 15000 | - |
| Service Plan Duration | 3 Years / 45000 km | 4 years/60000 km service plan (4 scheduled services) |
| Service Plan Distance | 3 Years / 45000 km | 4 years/60000 km service plan (4 scheduled services) |
| Alternator | 120A | - |
| Service Plan | 3 Years / 45000 km | 4 years/60000 km service plan (4 scheduled services) |
| Service Intervals | 15000 km / 12 months | - |
| Accessory Battery Type | Lead-acid | - |
| Spec | i20 | SEALION 5 DM-i |
|---|---|---|
| Warranty Years | 5 | 5 years/100000 km complete vehicle; 8 years/200000 km power battery; 5 years/100000 km drive unit |
| Warranty Kilometers | 5 | 5 years/100000 km complete vehicle; 8 years/200000 km power battery; 5 years/100000 km drive unit |
| Roadside Assistance | 5 Years | - |
| Anti-Corrosion Warranty | 5 Years | - |
| Basic Warranty | 5 | 5 years/100000 km complete vehicle; 8 years/200000 km power battery; 5 years/100000 km drive unit |
| Roadside Assistance | 5 Years | - |
| Warranty | 5 | 5 years/100000 km complete vehicle; 8 years/200000 km power battery; 5 years/100000 km drive unit |
| Warranty Roadside Assistance | 5 Years | - |
| Spec | i20 | SEALION 5 DM-i |
|---|---|---|
| CO2 Emissions | 110 g/km | 27 g/km |
| Start Stop System | No | - |
| Hybrid System Type | Not Available | - |
| Variable Valve Timing | Yes | - |
| Fuel Octane Requirement | Unleaded 95 | - |
| Particulate Filter | Not Available | - |
| Euro Emission Standard | Euro 6 | - |
| Idle CO2 Output | 110 | - |
| Fuel Evaporation Control | Yes | - |
| CO2 Emissions G Km | 110 | - |
| Spec | i20 | SEALION 5 DM-i |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Role | Fluid | higher-equipment derivative |
| Price Zar | 328900 ZAR | 569900 ZAR |
| Pricing Role | Current listed price | higher-equipment derivative |
| Starting Price | 328900 | 569900 |
| Starting Price Zar | 328900 | 569900 |
In depth: how these cars differ
This i20 and SEALION 5 DM-i comparison uses the exact derivatives selected above for South Africa. The catalogue index covers performance, efficiency, safety equipment, practicality and ownership cover only where comparable source-backed fields are present.
Performance index: i20 37 vs SEALION 5 DM-i 39.
Efficiency index: i20 59 vs SEALION 5 DM-i 81.
Safety-equipment index: i20 84 vs SEALION 5 DM-i 92.
Practicality index: i20 61 vs SEALION 5 DM-i 61.
Ownership-cover index: i20 65 vs SEALION 5 DM-i not separately scored.
These figures are Hagalu catalogue-comparison indicators, not customer ratings, crash-test scores, resale guarantees or a substitute for a road test. Each page shows its weighted source coverage beside the result.
Model imagery
i20 and SEALION 5 DM-i image comparison
Open an image for its full canonical file or visit the model page for the complete vehicle record.
Hyundai i20
View 8 more i20 images
BYD SEALION 5 DM-i
View 8 more SEALION 5 DM-i images
Specification Evidence Index
A transparent comparison of published catalogue fields. This is not a road-test score, owner rating or editorial review rating, and it appears only when every vehicle clears the same comparable-data threshold.
Evidence-index readout
SEALION 5 DM-i leads by 6 points
i20 and SEALION 5 DM-i are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
Evidence leader
67
/100
Lead
6
points
Data
79%
source coverage
67
#1
Evidence leader
SEALION 5 DM-i
79% source coverage
2 strong categories
Best at
Safety 92
Check
Performance 39
Performance
39
Efficiency
81
Safety
92
Practicality
61
Leads by 6 points
61
#2
i20
93% source coverage
1 strong categories
Best at
Safety 84
Check
Performance 37
Performance
37
Efficiency
59
Safety
84
Practicality
61
Ownership
65
Performance 24%
Safety 22%
Practicality 22%
Efficiency 17%
Ownership 15%
Category leaders
What moves the verdict
Performance
SEALION 5 DM-i +2
Efficiency
SEALION 5 DM-i +22
Safety
SEALION 5 DM-i +8
Practicality
Level
Close catalogue match. Buyer priorities should decide the outcome.
Why this score View full breakdown
Evidence-index leader
SEALION 5 DM-i
Performance
39/100
Efficiency
81/100
Safety
92/100
Practicality
61/100
i20
Performance
37/100
Efficiency
59/100
Safety
84/100
Practicality
61/100
Ownership
65/100
What the evidence means
Evidence index
BYD SEALION 5 DM-i
leads the specification evidence index with 67 pts
vs 61 pts for i20
In Hagalu's specification evidence index, SEALION 5 DM-i leads. However, i20 may suit buyers prioritising different confirmed fields. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your driving priorities in South Africa.
Related comparisons
Continue with closely related South Africa models and comparable body styles.
i20 vs SEALION 5 DM-i questions
There is no universal winner. Use the comparison table to match the models and available derivatives in South Africa on price, safety equipment, space, powertrain and ownership cover. The category indicators summarise published catalogue data; they are not a road test or customer rating.
Compare the published consumption or mileage rows for the exact derivatives using the same unit and test basis. A catalogue figure is useful for like-for-like comparison, but traffic, speed, load, weather and driving style can change actual fuel use.
Compare only equipment explicitly listed for each derivative, including airbags, stability control and driver-assistance systems. Confirm the exact trim with the manufacturer, and treat any independent crash-test result separately because equipment and ratings can differ by market.
A reliable five-year total cannot be calculated from catalogue data alone. Add the exact purchase and finance cost, fuel or electricity, insurance quotes, scheduled servicing, tyres and expected resale value. Check whether the selected derivative includes a service or maintenance plan.
Use the seating, boot or load-space, ISOFIX and safety rows as a first check. Then test the exact cars with your child seats, passengers and typical luggage, because published dimensions do not show every access or comfort difference.
Compare the published power, torque and 0–100 km/h rows when they are available for both exact derivatives. Vehicle weight, gearing and power delivery also matter, so catalogue outputs alone do not establish real-world overtaking or response.