Vehicle Overview
| Vehicle Segment | Subcompact Electric Hatchback |
| Body Style | 5-Door Hatchback |
| Release Year | 2021 (China); Global launch in 2023–2024 |
| Trim/Variant Reviewed | BYD Dolphin Extended Range (Also available: Active, Boost, Comfort, Design – varies by market) |
Key Specifications (Extended Range – EU/UK)
| Motor | Front-Mounted Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Automatic |
| Power Output | 204 hp (150 kW) |
| Torque | 310 Nm |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Battery | 60.4 kWh BYD Blade Battery (LFP) |
| Dimensions | 4,290 mm (L) × 1,770 mm (W) × 1,570 mm (H); Wheelbase: 2,700 mm |
| Weight | ~1,650 kg (Kerb) |
| Range | Up to 427 km WLTP / ~360–390 km real-world |
| Boot Space | 345 L / 1,310 L (seats folded) |
Exterior Design
Compact, youthful, and slightly futuristic styling
LED headlights, smooth sculpted body panels, and playful dual-tone paint options
Aero wheels, short overhangs, and upright tailgate emphasize urban practicality
Some trims offer chrome highlights, roof spoilers, and contrasting accents
Ocean-inspired design language with subtle wave and dolphin motifs
Interior, Comfort & Materials
Clever, ergonomic cabin with floating console and layered dash
Synthetic leather upholstery (on higher trims), soft-touch panels, ambient lighting
Rear bench offers class-leading legroom thanks to long wheelbase
Adjustable front seats, 60:40 rear folding, panoramic sunroof (Design trim)
Minimal noise and refined feel for the price segment
Features & Infotainment
12.8” Rotating Touchscreen with DiLink OS (on most trims)
5" Digital Instrument Cluster
Android-based OS with OTA updates and 3rd-party app support
Apple CarPlay & Android Auto (wired/wireless – market dependent)
Voice assistant, navigation, 360° camera, wireless phone charging (Design trim)
USB-C and USB-A ports front and rear
Safety & Ratings
Standard Safety Suite
AEB, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control
Blind spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, driver attention monitor
Assisted Driving
Stop & go cruise, smart lane centering on higher trims
Crash Ratings
| Euro NCAP | Five stars (October 2023). Tested as a left-hand-drive Dolphin Design; the rating covers the Active, Boost, Comfort and Design. Category scores: adult occupant 89%, child occupant 87%, vulnerable road users 85%, safety assist 79% (Euro NCAP, checked 2 October 2026). |
Driving Performance & Handling
0–100 km/h: ~7.0 seconds (204 hp variant)
Light and agile steering with excellent maneuverability
Tight turning radius ideal for city driving
MacPherson front / torsion beam rear suspension tuned for comfort
Smooth ride quality with composed handling at city and motorway speeds
Fuel Efficiency / EV Range
Battery Options
44.9 kWh (Active/Boost)
60.4 kWh (Comfort/Design/Extended Range)
WLTP Range
44.9 kWh: ~340 km
60.4 kWh: ~427 km
| Real-World Range | ~360–390 km (larger battery) |
Charging
| DC Fast Charging | 88 kW max (30–80% in ~29 minutes) |
| AC Charging | 11 kW (full in ~6.5 hours) |
| V2L | Supported on most trims |
Practicality & Everyday Usability
345 L boot is generous for size; expands to 1,310 L with seats down
Low loading lip and wide tailgate opening
Excellent headroom and rear legroom for a subcompact EV
Wireless phone charging pad, door storage, and center cubbies
Lightweight steering and compact size make it ideal for urban parking
Warranty & Maintenance
| Vehicle Warranty (UK/EU) | 6 years / 93,000 miles |
| Battery Warranty | 8 years / 120,000 miles |
| Maintenance requirements | very low (brakes, filters, tires) |
Blade Battery noted for high durability, thermal safety, and long cycle life
On-Road Price & Value for Money
UK Price (2024)
| Active | from ~£25,500 |
| Boost | ~£27,000 |
| Comfort | ~£30,000 |
| Design | ~£31,500 |
Great value vs rivals like MG4, Renault Zoe, and even entry-level ID.3
High warranty coverage and premium features rare at this price point
Comparison with Rivals
| Model | Power | Range (WLTP) | 0–100 km/h | Price (UK) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BYD Dolphin ER | 204 hp | 427 km | 7.0s | £31,500 |
| MG4 SE Long Range | 203 hp | 435 km | 7.7s | £29,495 |
| Renault Zoe | 135 hp | 386 km | 9.5s | £29,995 |
| VW ID.3 Pure | 150 hp | 347 km | 8.9s | £35,000 |
| Dolphin stands out in | Value, features, safety, and performance |
MG4 competes closely, while ID.3 is more premium but pricier
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent value with high standard spec
- Spacious, comfortable interior for class
- Long range and fast charging
- Five-star Euro NCAP rating (2023)
- Unique styling with fun design touches
Cons
- No rear wiper (Design choice)
- Less dynamic than MG4 or ID.3 in corners
- No frunk
- Limited brand recognition (BYD still growing globally)
Overall Rating
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4.5 / 5) |
True Motion Auto has not independently road-tested this vehicle. Specifications, pricing and performance figures are compiled from manufacturer technical data and published independent tests, and are attributed where quoted. Our score reflects a structured research assessment of specifications, pricing, safety data and owner feedback for the segment — not an independent road test. Read how we review cars.
The BYD Dolphin is a top-tier budget-friendly EV — offering practicality, tech, and range with style and confidence.
Final Verdict
The 2021 BYD Dolphin proves that affordable EVs can still feel well-built, premium, and fun to drive. With strong safety, futuristic features, and BYD’s Blade Battery underpinnings, the Dolphin is perfect for urban drivers, young families, and first-time EV owners seeking maximum value without compromise.
More BYD reviews: BYD Atto 3 Review, BYD Han EV Review and BYD Seal Review.
Buyer checkpoints
| Buyer checkpoint | True Motion Auto view |
|---|---|
| Best for | Drivers wanting quiet electric running and low local emissions. |
| Body style | Car |
| Powertrain focus | Electric |
| UK ownership note | Check insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying. |
| Verdict | Worth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use. |
Frequently asked questions
Is the BYD Dolphin good for UK roads?
Should I buy new or used?
What should I check before ordering?
Is it suitable for families?
Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.