By James Stinson
BYD is no stranger to shaking up the car market, and its latest UK launch could be one of its boldest moves yet. The new Dolphin G DM-i arrives as the only supermini on sale with plug-in hybrid technology, bringing a combination of electric driving and long-distance flexibility that remains almost unheard of in this class.
While most manufacturers have focused on either conventional petrol power or fully electric drivetrains for their smallest cars, BYD is trying something different. In many ways, the Dolphin G is another example of a Chinese car maker blazing a trail into territory that more established rivals have largely ignored.
A hybrid with genuine electric range
The Dolphin G uses BYD’s Super Hybrid DM technology, pairing a petrol engine with an electric motor and battery pack. Buyers can choose from two versions.
Entry-level Active models feature a 7.4kWh Blade Battery and produce 174bhp. They offer up to 24.8 miles of electric-only driving, a combined range of 633 miles and a claimed weighted fuel economy figure of 108.6mpg.
The step up Boost trim is where things become particularly interesting. It gains a much larger 18.3kWh battery, increasing electric-only range to a claimed 65 miles. Total output rises to 209bhp, while fuel economy improves dramatically to a claimed 201.7mpg. Combined driving range also climbs to 646 miles.
For many commuters, 65 miles of electric range could be enough to complete daily journeys without using a drop of petrol, while the engine provides reassurance for longer motorway trips.
Strong equipment levels from the outset
One area where Chinese brands continue to impress is standard equipment, and the Dolphin G appears no exception.
Even the entry-level Active comes well equipped with LED headlights, heated and electrically adjustable mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, automatic air conditioning, satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Safety kit includes adaptive cruise control, blind-spot detection, traffic sign recognition and front and rear parking sensors.
The Active also features a 10.1-inch touchscreen, rear-view camera, fabric upholstery and four-speaker audio system. That’s a generous specification considering its starting price.
Moving up the range, the Boost adds heated front seats, privacy glass, wireless phone charging, a larger 12.8-inch touchscreen, ambient lighting and an upgraded eight-speaker sound system.
The Comfort model introduces a 360-degree camera, electric driver’s seat adjustment, larger 18-inch alloy wheels and Google built-in services, including Google Maps and Google Assistant.
Topping the line-up is the Sport, which brings black alloy wheels, artificial suede upholstery and unique interior and exterior styling details.
Practicality matters
Despite its compact dimensions, the Dolphin G offers a class-leading 425-litre boot. That figure compares favourably with many larger hatchbacks and should make the car attractive to small families as well as private buyers looking for maximum practicality.
Can it challenge established rivals?
The Dolphin G faces competition from popular superminis such as the Volkswagen Polo, Renault Clio and Toyota Yaris, while buyers considering electrification may also look at EVs such as the Renault 5, Nissan Micra EV and Hyundai Inster.
Its biggest advantage is uniqueness. There simply isn’t another plug-in hybrid supermini available in the UK offering up to 65 miles of electric range. However, some buyers may still prefer the simplicity of a full EV or a cheaper conventional hybrid.
Prices and availability
The BYD Dolphin G DM-i is available to order now, with first UK deliveries expected in September.
Prices start at £23,990 for the Active, rising to £26,990 for the Boost, £28,490 for the Comfort and £29,490 for the range-topping Sport.