BYD probably has a much larger model range than you expect.
From smallest to biggest, there’s the BYD Dolphin Surf, Dolphin, Atto 3, Seal, Sealion 7 and Seal U, and they’re all different models.
This confusingly named lineup is now bolstered again with the BYD Atto 2, which is smaller than the Atto 3. Rivals include the Renault Megane E-Tech, Cupra Born, MG4, Kia EV3 and Skoda Elroq.
Pricing seems competitive. The entry-level Boost model costs £30,850, and that includes a 12.8-inch rotatable touchscreen, a 360-degree reversing camera, heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. There’s also Vehicle-to-Load (meaning you can charge other electricals from the car’s battery) and an ‘intelligent’ voice assistant.
Boost trim comes with a 51.1kWh battery for an official range estimate of 214 miles. Fast-charging is capped at 82kW, meaning a 30-80% top-up in half an hour (most brands measure charge time in 10-80%).
Comfort trim, starting at £34,950, gives you a larger 64.8kWh battery, for a useful 261 miles of range. For regular fast-charger users, the Comfort trim is the one to go for, because its 155kW max charge rate enables a 30-80% charge in 21 minutes.
In terms of equipment, the Comfort adds folding door mirrors, tinted rear windows and driver’s lumbar support.
The free paint colour is grey, or you can pay £750 for green, white or black shades. Beige upholstery is a no-cost option if you don’t want black.
First deliveries start in September for the Boost model, while Comfort cars will start arriving before the end of the year.
The Atto 2 measures 4,310mm long, 1,830mm wide (excluding mirrors) and 1,675mm tall. At 400 litres, the boot is a decent enough size for a car this big, and we expect the Atto 2 to offer plenty of rear legroom – it’s something that buyers in BYD’s native China expect.
Can’t wait for the BYD Atto 2? Shop our enticing range of used electric SUVs and used electric hatchbacks.
