The BYD Dolphin Surf is an affordable electric hatchback that slots between the city-focused Dacia Spring and more refined options like the Renault 5 or Citroën ë-C3. It’s larger than some budget EV rivals, offers a respectable kit list and comes with a competitive price tag.
That said, you’ll have to accept a few compromises – particularly in ride quality, range (on base models) and dynamic finesse.
Performance and driving experience
The Dolphin Surf comes in three main versions: Active, Boost and Comfort. The entry-level Active uses a 30kWh battery with just 87bhp, which results in a limited real-world range of around 100 miles, despite an official figure of 136 miles. Acceleration is sluggish too, taking over 11 seconds to reach 62mph.
The Boost trim adds a larger 43.2kWh battery, improving range to a more usable 200 miles. Oddly, this version is even slower than the Active due to its extra weight, with a 0–62mph time over 12 seconds.
At the top of the range, the Comfort combines the same 43.2kWh battery with a punchier 154bhp motor. It feels nippy in town and manages 0–62mph in 9.1 seconds, but range dips slightly to 192 miles.
While the Comfort model feels reasonably brisk around town, none of the Dolphin Surfs are dynamically exciting. The ride is unsettled over rougher surfaces, cornering grip is modest, and handling lacks polish when compared with the Renault 5 or ë-C3.
However, the steering is pleasingly light and its tight turning circle is handy in urban settings.
The brakes (when you use them) can feel a little inconsistent.
Space and practicality
The Dolphin Surf is longer than the Renault 5 and shorter than the ë-C3, giving it more room inside than the smallest EVs. Front occupants benefit from decent head and legroom, although the cabin feels narrow due to the intrusive centre console and door pillars. That console does house useful storage, cupholders, and (on Comfort trim) a wireless phone charging pad.
In the rear, there’s good space for legs and knees, beating the Renault 5. Headroom is tighter, especially for taller adults, and the Dolphin Surf is strictly a four-seater with only two rear seat belts. Isofix mounts are provided for both rear seats and the front passenger seat.
Boot space is impressive for this class, with 308 litres available below the parcel shelf – part of which is in a deep lower section ideal for charging cables or shopping. The rear seats fold in a 50/50 split, though there’s no front boot.
Interior and infotainment
Step inside, and the Dolphin Surf punches above its weight. The dashboard is finished in durable hard plastics, and some surfaces are covered in wetsuit-like fabric for a unique touch. The build feels more substantial than in cheaper EVs, such as the Leapmotor T03 or Dacia Spring.
All trims include a 10.1in rotating touchscreen – an unusual and eye-catching feature. It’s smooth, responsive and fairly intuitive, although smartphone mirroring only works in landscape mode. Infotainment in the Dolphin Surf is better than in the ë-C3 or Spring, though it still falls short of the Renault 5’s excellent system.
The driving position is generally comfortable. Unlike some rivals, the steering wheel adjusts for reach as well as height, and Boost models and above include electric seat adjustment. Unfortunately, no version offers adjustable lumbar support. Rear visibility is slightly compromised by thick pillars, but all models include parking sensors and a rear camera.
Buying and ownership
With a presumed starting price under £19,000, the entry-level Active is hard to beat for value. You get air-con, keyless entry, adaptive cruise control, rear sensors and a reversing camera as standard. Charging from 10 to 80% takes around 30 minutes at 65kW – faster than a Dacia Spring, but hardly rapid.
The Boost trim (approx. £22,000) adds a faster 85kW charge rate, better range and appealing extras like alloy wheels and electric seats. The Comfort model (around £21,900) further improves the spec with LED headlights, privacy glass, heated front seats and a 360-degree camera, although charging speeds remain unchanged from Boost trim.
Safety kit includes automatic emergency braking and traffic-sign recognition. However, at the time of writing, the Dolphin Surf has no Euro NCAP rating. The manufacturer is expecting a four-star result once it’s tested.
The Dolphin Surf comes with an impressive six-year/93,750-mile vehicle warranty and an eight-year/125,000-mile battery guarantee covering degradation.
Verdict
The BYD Dolphin Surf is a solid new entry in the affordable EV market. It undercuts most rivals on price, delivers generous equipment, and feels more polished than its cheapest competitors. However, the cheapest versions lack range and performance, while the ride and handling are unrefined. Still, if you’re after an affordable small EV and are happy to spend a bit more for the Boost or Comfort trims, the Dolphin Surf is a compelling and sensible choice.