Say Hello to BYD’s new Dolphin G DM-i
Small car. Seriously big technology.
The new BYD Dolphin G DM-i brings plug-in hybrid power, useful electric range and family-car practicality into a compact package built for everyday life.
Though small, this compact new BYD offers a lot of technology, practicality and efficiency.
BYD has quickly become one of the most recognisable names among the newer car brands in the UK. Its cars are now a familiar sight on our roads, helped by a range that puts electrification, battery technology and generous standard equipment front and centre.
Now the line-up is growing again with the BYD Dolphin G DM-i. It sits in the B-segment, making it a compact hatchback, but the technology and practicality on board feel anything but small. Here are the key things you need to know.
A plug-in hybrid designed to feel electric
Electrification is at the heart of BYD, and the Dolphin G DM-i uses the brand’s Super Hybrid with DM technology. There is a 1.5-litre petrol engine on board, but the system is EV-led, with the electric motor driving the car in most situations while the petrol engine can support the battery and powertrain when required.
On the larger-battery versions, BYD quotes up to 65 miles of electric-only range. With a full battery and a full tank of petrol, total range can reach up to 646 miles, giving the Dolphin G DM-i the flexibility to cover shorter everyday journeys electrically while still being ready for longer trips.
Two battery setups
Active models use a 7.42kWh Blade Battery, while Boost, Comfort and Sport step up to an 18.3kWh battery. The larger battery is also compatible with DC charging at up to 39kW.
That means the Dolphin G DM-i can offer the quiet, responsive feel of electric driving without removing the long-distance reassurance of a petrol engine.
BYD’s headline weighted fuel-consumption figure applies to the larger-battery versions with the battery charged.
Built for town, without forgetting the boot
At 4,160mm long, the Dolphin G DM-i is 170mm shorter than the BYD Atto 2 DM-i, helping it fit neatly into the supermini class and making it easier to live with in tighter urban spaces.
Compact dimensions do not mean cramped practicality, though. The boot holds 425 litres and includes a discreet 45-litre storage area beneath the floor, handy for keeping charging cables out of the main luggage space. Fold the rear seats and total capacity increases to 1,225 litres.
Big-car features in a compact hatchback
BYD has packed the Dolphin G DM-i with the kind of digital and driver-assistance technology you might expect from a larger car. Every version gets an 8.8-inch digital instrument display, while the central infotainment screen measures either 10.1 or 12.8 inches depending on trim.
Dual-screen cabin
An 8.8-inch driver display is standard, joined by a 10.1-inch or 12.8-inch central touchscreen depending on specification.
Safety as standard
Adaptive cruise control, blind-spot detection, front and rear parking sensors and a broad suite of lane and cross-traffic assistance systems feature across the range.
Premium upgrades
Higher trims add features such as a head-up display, Google built-in, a panoramic roof and a 360-degree camera.
Plenty of equipment from the start
The UK line-up is made up of Active, Boost, Comfort and Sport. Even the entry point comes with a strong standard specification, while each step up adds either more electric capability, more comfort or extra design detail.
Active
Starts the range with the 7.42kWh Blade Battery, 16-inch alloy wheels, front and rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera, 10.1-inch touchscreen and 8.8-inch digital instrument display.
Boost
Introduces the larger 18.3kWh battery and headline 65-mile electric range, plus the 12.8-inch infotainment screen, heated front seats, extra rear-seat connectivity and wireless smartphone charging.
Comfort
Adds more premium kit including 18-inch alloy wheels, a head-up display, panoramic roof, electrically adjustable driver’s seat, 360-degree camera and Google built-in.
Sport
Sits at the top of the range with a more design-led look, including darker 18-inch alloy wheels and a distinctive two-tone cabin treatment with suede-style seat detailing.
Compact, clean and unmistakably BYD
The Dolphin G DM-i uses the latest evolution of BYD’s ocean-inspired design language. Slim lighting, a rising shoulder line and a floating-roof effect help give the compact hatchback a more distinctive stance.
At the rear, a full-width light bar connects the LED tail-lights, while a subtle roof spoiler houses the third brake light. It is a neat, modern look that gives the Dolphin G DM-i plenty of presence without making it feel oversized.
Could the BYD Dolphin G DM-i be your next lease car?
The Dolphin G DM-i is available to order in the UK, with first customer deliveries due in September. When lease offers become available through UK Carline, we will be keeping an eye out for the strongest deals across the range.
Browse current BYD lease dealsVehicle specifications and availability are based on BYD UK information available at the time of writing and may be subject to change.
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