The BYD Dolphin delivers strong value in the electric vehicle (EV) market, standing out for its competitive pricing and respectable battery performance. While not the most engaging drive, it compensates with a comfortable ride, generous interior space, and aggressive finance deals that undercut many competitors. If driving excitement isn’t a priority, the Dolphin is a sensible choice for families and urban commuters.
Overview: Value-Focused EV
The BYD Dolphin arrived in the UK as one of the few fully electric superminis available. Over time, the lineup has streamlined to just two trims – Comfort and Design – which has increased prices somewhat, but overall value remains competitive.
The car has proven itself in head-to-head tests, like its victory over the Fiat 600e, thanks to its attractive pricing, comfortable ride, and comprehensive features. Currently, you can find deals reducing the price by an average of £2,190, with lease options starting at £309 per month.
Performance & Driving Experience: Practical Rather Than Thrilling
The BYD Dolphin prioritizes practicality over performance. With a single 201bhp motor and 60.4kWh battery, it achieves 0-62mph in 7 seconds, comparable to the Renault 5 but slower than the MG4 Extended Range.
The ride is smooth enough for daily use, effectively absorbing bumps and potholes. However, the driving experience lacks excitement; the controls feel uninspired, and body lean is noticeable on twisty roads. Overzealous stability control can also intrude during spirited driving.
Road and wind noise are prominent at motorway speeds, requiring louder music to drown them out. Despite this, the ride remains comfortable, making it suitable for long distances.
Range, Charging & Running Costs: Efficient but Not Leading-Edge
The BYD Dolphin offers reasonable real-world efficiency, with approximately four miles per kWh. Its 60.4kWh battery provides a WLTP range of 265 miles, but charging speeds lag behind some rivals. Using a 7kW home charger takes almost 10 hours for a full recharge, while DC fast charging peaks at 88kW, requiring 41 minutes for a 10-80% top-up.
Insurance costs are relatively high, residing in group 30. However, depreciation is average, with the car retaining around 39-42% of its value after three years. Company car drivers benefit from favorable Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) rates, and the Dolphin avoids luxury car tax due to its sub-£32,000 price.
Interior, Design & Technology: Functional and Well-Equipped
The BYD Dolphin’s interior punches above its price point. While materials aren’t premium, clever design and textures create an attractive cabin. The standout feature is the 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and 4G connectivity for ten years.
Some testers have noted discomfort with the front seat headrests, making a test drive essential. The cabin layout is functional, though some controls are integrated into the touchscreen rather than physical buttons.
Practicality & Space: Family-Friendly Dimensions
The BYD Dolphin is a five-door hatchback roughly the size of a Volkswagen Golf. It offers generous passenger space, with ample legroom and headroom in the rear. Three Isofix child seat mounting points are standard. Boot space is 364 liters (1,329 liters with seats folded), which is smaller than some competitors like the VW ID.3, and the load lip is relatively high.
Reliability & Safety: Confidence Backed by Warranty
BYD’s six-year warranty demonstrates confidence in its product. The Dolphin has received a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating.
“The BYD Dolphin is a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable, practical EV. While it lacks the excitement of some rivals, its value proposition, spacious interior, and long warranty make it a strong contender in the growing electric hatchback segment.”
In conclusion, the BYD Dolphin is a practical, well-equipped EV that delivers strong value. Its focus on affordability, comfort, and reliability makes it a sensible choice for those prioritizing efficiency over driving thrills.
