The BYD Dolphin: A Unique Proposition in the Australian EV Landscape
The BYD Dolphin has emerged as a distinctive player in the electric vehicle market, characterized by its bold aesthetics both inside and out. It’s understandable why more traditional car buyers might hesitate to embrace this model. Nonetheless, a noteworthy cohort of 1,885 Australians made the decision to dive in this year.
The Dolphin stands out for its affordability, being one of only six electric vehicles available for less than AUD 50,000. With the options further narrowed by excluding SUVs, buyers seeking a compact and budget-friendly electric hatchback have a limited selection, primarily consisting of the Dolphin, the MG 4, and the GWM Ora. As the sales leader among this trio, MG has captured attention, but does the Dolphin deserve a closer look?
Inside the Dolphin
Our review centers on the top-tier Dolphin Premium, priced at AUD 42,890—an AUD 6,000 increase over the base Dynamic variant. This premium model features an upgraded electric motor and battery.
Stepping inside the Dolphin elicits mixed reactions—it’s quirky and unconventional. The vibrant color palette and texture choices may not appeal to everyone, but for younger, style-savvy consumers, it offers a refreshing change. While BYD’s unorthodox design may deter some buyers, the brand deserves commendation for maintaining a consistent design language across its lineup. Fans of the Atto 3 SUV are likely to appreciate the Dolphin as well; those seeking more conventional options might want to look elsewhere.
The Dolphin’s interior, although playful, feels more upscale than its price tag suggests. The front seats feature a comfortable leatherette finish in contrasting blue and black, complemented by standard heating and power-adjustability options for both driver and passenger.
However, while many touchpoints are pleasingly soft, some areas—such as the center console, door panels, and dashboard top—are constructed from harder plastics, which initially detracts from the overall impression. This, however, is common in the EV segment at this price point. The striking design elements, such as a flipper-style door handle and unique dash finishes, add a layer of visual interest.
The centerpiece of the dashboard is BYD’s innovative 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen infotainment system, accompanied by a 5.0-inch digital instrument cluster. The infotainment display is user-friendly, providing easy navigation and a range of functions, including internet browsing and satellite navigation. Wireless smartphone connectivity and a selection of charging ports enhance convenience for tech-savvy users.
Storage options are abundant, with clever design choices maximizing space, both in the center console and within the front and rear compartments. Impressively, the rear seating area offers ample room for average-sized passengers, complemented by additional charging options and a practical center armrest.
Despite some compromises in cargo space—345 liters that expand to 1,310 liters with the rear seats folded—the Dolphin maximizes interior usability, although accessing the boot can be cumbersome due to its height and smaller opening.
Performance and Driving Experience
Under the bonnet, the Dolphin Premium boasts a more robust electric motor, delivering 150 kW of power, complemented by a 60.5 kWh battery. This configuration enables a claimed 0-100 km/h sprint in 7.0 seconds and a range of 427 km on the WLTP cycle.
In urban settings, the Dolphin excels, offering a responsive and enjoyable driving experience, enhanced by precise steering and quick acceleration. However, as speeds increase, wind noise intrudes— a trade-off for its city-oriented design. While its handling and dynamics are commendable, overly sensitive advanced driver-assistance systems hamper the driving experience.
The Dolphin features automated systems such as lane-keeping assist and intelligent cruise control, but their execution leaves much to be desired. Autofunctions that should simplify driving often become sources of frustration due to erratic behavior and user-unfriendly resets. Conversely, low-speed maneuvers are handled commendably, with an intuitive parking assistance system.
Safety and Cost of Ownership
The Dolphin is backed by a five-star safety rating from ANCAP, incorporating a range of standard features including autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera. With a six-year, 150,000 km warranty and a cap on service costs, the Dolphin presents a compelling argument in terms of long-term ownership economics.
Final Thoughts
In summary, the BYD Dolphin is a polarizing yet intriguing option in the growing segment of affordable electric vehicles. It combines bold design with commendable functionality, though it may falter on longer journeys due to its less refined driver assistance features and highway performance.
As competition intensifies among budget EVs, including the increasingly appealing MG 4—currently available at competitive promotional pricing—the Dolphin must continue to prove its value. For those considering an entry-level electric vehicle, careful assessments of their needs and potential dealership negotiations may prove beneficial.
Source:www.carexpert.com.au
