NEW BYD DOLPHIN SURF REVIEW – THE BEST SMALL EV?

EV Channels Review

The BYD Dolphin Surf, also known as the Seagull in China, positions itself as a compelling budget-friendly electric vehicle, significantly undercutting rivals like the Renault 5 and Citroen EC3. The review highlights its surprisingly spacious interior for its sub-4-meter length, offering competitive rear-seat accommodation and a practical boot with a useful underfloor storage area for cables. While the entry-level Active model's range (136 miles) and charging speed (65 kW) are considered modest, the mid-spec Boost and range-topping Comfort models offer a more respectable 200 miles of range and faster 85 kW charging. The Comfort trim, featuring a 150 bhp motor, delivers brisk acceleration (0-60 mph in 8.28 seconds, faster than official claims) and is praised for its performance relative to its class. However, the driving experience is noted as a mixed bag, with noticeable pitch during acceleration and braking, and less grip than some rivals. The brake pedal feel is also described as grabby, and the ride can be choppy. Despite these drawbacks, the interior quality is deemed good for the class, with a pleasant "wetsuit" material accent and ample storage. The infotainment system is functional, though the rotating screen has limited utility with Apple CarPlay. Overall, the Dolphin Surf is commended for filling a gap in the market by offering a more refined experience than cheaper alternatives like the Dacia Spring, while being considerably more affordable than more sophisticated competitors like the Renault 5.