BYD Dolphin G (2026 onwards) | Expert Rating

4 minutes reading
Monday, 28 Sep 2026 12:30 0 6 autotech

Summary

The BYD Dolphin G is a compact hatchback with the unique selling point of being the only plug-in hybrid supermini currently available in the UK.

“It’s spacious with a big boot”, says Parkers’ Amrit Kaur, “and, if running 65 miles on electric power alone while still having the flexibility of a petrol engine sounds good to you, it’s worth considering.”

Reviewers generally agree that the Dolphin G is a sensible compact motoring choice, which The Independent’s Steve Fowler calls BYD’s “most convincing” car yet, and Electrifying.com’s James Batchelor says “looks and feels like an Atto 2 SUV but in a more traditional small car package.”

Matt Robinson of Auto Express calls the supermini a “perfectly proficient little runaround” that “promises terrific value” to help you “overlook its flaws”, such as a “gritty low-speed ride” and a lethargic throttle response.

The Car Expert’s own Andrew Charman suggests that buyers avoid the entry-level model and its lower electric-only range, and concludes that, “while there are some niggles, none of them are a deal breaker”, praising the BYD for its fuel efficiency, big boot and competitive price tag.

As of the time of writing, we are waiting for more reviews to be published and to collect running cost estimations for the model before giving the car an Expert Rating score. Check back soon!

Dolphin G highlights

  • Plug-in hybrid powertrain unique in class
  • Class-leading efficiency and electric-only range
  • Big boot by supermini standards
  • Competitive pricing

Dolphin G lowlights

  • Slightly cramped rear seating
  • Entry-level model offers less battery range
  • Unrefined low speed ride quality
  • Sluggish when you put your foot down

Key specifications

Body style: Small hatchback
Engines:
petrol plug-in hybrid
Price:
From £23,990

Launched: Autumn 2026
Last updated: N/A
Replacement due: TBA

Highlighted reviews and road tests from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

Safety rating

Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

No safety rating

As of September 2026, the BYD Dolphin G has not been assessed by Euro NCAP.

Eco rating

Independent economy and emissions ratings from Green NCAP

No eco rating

As of September 2026, the BYD Dolphin G has not been assessed by Green NCAP.

Running cost rating

Clear Vehicle Data logo close crop

Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data

No data yet

As of September 2026, we don’t have independently verified data available for the BYD Dolphin G. Check back again soon.

Warranty rating

New car warranty information for the BYD Dolphin G

BYD’s new car warranty is better than average, and better than rival brands in a similar price bracket as the Dolphin G.

The duration is six years, with a limit of 93,750 miles. In addition to the standard new car warranty, the plug-in hybrid has an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty for the battery components.

Recalls

Official DVSA safety recalls that have been issued for the BYD Dolphin G

As of September 2026, we are not aware of any DVSA vehicle safety recalls affecting the BYD Dolphin G. However, recall information is updated regularly, so this may have changed.

You can check to see if your car has any outstanding recalls by visiting the DVLA website or contacting your local BYD dealer.

Similar cars

If you’re looking at a new or used BYD Dolphin G, you might also be interested in these alternatives

Dacia Sandero | Fiat Grande Panda Hybrid | Honda Jazz | Mazda 2 Hybrid | MG 3 | MG 4 Urban | Mini Cooper | Peugeot 208 | Renault Clio | SEAT Ibiza | Skoda Fabia | Toyota Yaris | Vauxhall Corsa | Volkswagen Polo

More information

More news, reviews and information about the BYD Dolphin G at The Car Expert

Plug-in hybrid BYD Dolphin G supermini unveiled

Plug-in hybrid BYD Dolphin G supermini unveiled

Buy a BYD Dolphin G

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