The BYD Dolphin G DM-i is the brand’s first model developed specifically for the European B-segment, bringing plug-in hybrid technology to the supermini class, targeting buyers who have unanswered questions on an EV’s range and charging infrastructure.
We experienced the new hatchback at the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2026, where BYD presented it as an alternative to conventional petrol, hybrid and battery-electric hatchbacks, and here’s how it went:
Design
The Dolphin G DM-i measures 4,160 mm long, 1,825 mm wide and 1,575 mm tall, making it 170 mm shorter than the Atto 2 DM-i. It adopts BYD’s latest Ocean Series styling with LED headlights, a full-width rear light bar and alloy wheels ranging from 16 to 18 inches, depending on trim.
From the side, the Dolphin G DM-i has short overhangs, a gently rising window line and pronounced rear haunches that give it a more planted stance than many traditional superminis.
The flush door handles and contrasting black roof on higher trims contribute to a cleaner appearance, while wheel designs vary between the trim levels, ranging from 16-inch alloys on the Active to 18-inch alloys on the Comfort and Sport.
Interior
The cabin features an 8.8-inch digital instrument display and either a 10.1-inch or 12.8-inch rotating infotainment touchscreen, depending on specification.
Higher trims add Google built-in, a head-up display, wireless smartphone charging, a panoramic roof and a 360-degree camera. The Dolphin G DM-i also offers a 425-litre boot, expanding to 1,225 litres with the rear seats folded.
Experience in the Dolphin G DM-i
I spent time in the BYD Dolphin G plug-in hybrid, and the wide-opening doors made initial access straightforward. The flush exterior handles are manually operated, so there are no unnecessary electric gimmicks. For my 6-foot frame, however, I had to raise the steering wheel to its highest position before getting in.
The pedal box was spacious and well designed, but the steering-wheel position remained an issue due to my height. My thighs brushed its lower edge, and I had to pull the wheel towards me to create more space. Likewise, getting out requires a little effort, which maybe inconvenient for taller drivers.
Once seated, the cabin felt surprisingly spacious for a hatchback. The electrically adjustable front seat offered good back support, acceptable under-thigh support, comfortable side bolstering and a decent headrest. I had about 10 cm of headroom to the headliner.
Outward visibility was good, despite the thick pillars. The front and rear quarter glass panels reduce the blind spots, while the rounded mirrors provide a useful view. I also liked the comfortable centre armrest, adjustable cupholders, wireless charging slot and additional storage areas, which make it a practical cabin.
The large centre AC vents use small joystick-style adjusters, which feel distinctive. There are also physical buttons for EV and hybrid modes, the demisters, start/stop and traction control. However, fan-speed adjustment is buried in the touchscreen menu, which makes a simple task unnecessarily complicated.
The rear seat is mainly for children and shorter adults. With the front seat set for my height, I had only just over 2 cm of knee room, and my shoes could not slide under the front seat.
I also sat with my knees raised. The flat floor, large glass roof, rear AC vents and two USB ports are positives, while back support and the adjustable headrests were good.
Specifications
The UK-spec Dolphin G DM-i is available in Active, Boost, Comfort and Sport trims. It uses BYD’s Super Hybrid DM technology, pairing a 95 PS 1.5-litre petrol engine with a front-mounted electric motor.
The Active uses a 7.4 kWh Blade Battery, producing a combined system output of 176 PS. It offers up to 24.8 miles of WLTP electric-only range, a combined WLTP range of 633 miles and weighted fuel consumption of up to 108.6 mpg.
Boost, Comfort and Sport models receive a larger 18.3 kWh Blade Battery, increasing system output to 212 PS. Electric-only range rises to 65 miles (WLTP), combined range increases to 646 miles, and weighted fuel consumption improves to as much as 201.7 mpg.
The Active supports 3.3 kW AC charging, while Boost and higher trims increase AC charging to 6.6 kW and add DC charging at up to 39 kW.
Standard safety equipment across the UK range includes adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, blind-spot detection and front and rear parking sensors. At the same time, Comfort and Sport also receive a 360-degree camera.
Price & Availability
The BYD Dolphin G DM-i is available to order in the UK now, with prices starting from £23,990 for the Active. The Boost costs £26,990, the Comfort starts from £28,490, while the range-topping Sport is priced from £29,490. First UK customer deliveries are scheduled to begin in September.
Trained as an automobile engineer, I’ve been following the global car market since 2005. Over the past 17 years, I’ve been involved in online automotive analysis and publishing, traveling the world to drive, evaluate, and experience new cars and technologies.
