The BYD Sealion 5 DM-i has officially made its Philippine debut after ACMobility launched it earlier today. With it, those who want a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) crossover can now choose between the Sealion 6 and the newly launched Sealion 5.

Despite being slightly smaller than the Sealion 6, BYD’s latest crossover is only selling for PHP 1.248 million and is available at a special introductory cash price of PHP 1.198 million. At those current prices, it’s more affordable than the likes of the Toyota Corolla Cross HEV and Honda HR-V RS e:HEV, which are smaller in size and start at PHP 1.514 million and PHP 1.799 million, respectively.

Even more impressive is the fact that BYD claims that with both a full tank of gasoline and a fully charged battery, the Sealion 5 DM-i has a combined range of over 1,000 km. But like other DM-i vehicles, BYD believes it can go beyond the factory-rated range.

To prove this, BYD Cars Philippines once again sought help from veteran race car drivers Georges and Louie Ramirez for an efficiency run that was supervised by the Automobile Association Philippines. Both Georges and Louis drove a BYD Sealion 5 DM-i around the famed Luzon Loop with only a full charge of the 12.96 kWh battery and a full tank of fuel.

From Manila, they traveled as far as Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, and past the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) and CAVITEX on their way back to Manila. The Sealion 5 DM-i was able to complete the loop with a total distance of 1,409.7 km over three days of driving. Through urban, highway, mountain, and countryside roads, the Ramirez tandem achieved an efficiency result of 25.273 km/L, allowing them to surpass the vehicle’s estimated range in the process.

“The Sealion 5 DM-i is yet another proof of how easy and convenient it is to switch to electrified mobility with BYD. With the strength of BYD Super DM-i technology and our growing lineup of electric vehicles, we continue to offer Filipinos a worry-free electric mobility experience for their every need,” said Adam Hu, BYD Cars Philippines Country Head.

Interested in getting one? You’re in luck since the automaker is also offering a special PHP 88,000 downpayment for a limited time on top of the special cash price of PHP 1.198 million.