Video: we drive the BYD Atto 2 DM-i

BYD has added a plug-in hybrid to its Atto 2 small SUV line-up, and Richard Edwards has been behind the wheel to see whether the DM-i is the pick of the range. Priced from $34,990, it’s now on sale in New Zealand.

The DM-i comes in two grades. The Essential, at $34,990, has a 7.85kWh Blade battery and a WLTP electric range of 39km. The Premium steps up to an 18.03kWh battery, giving 90km of electric range and a combined range of 1,000km. It also adds a 12.8-inch touchscreen, heated imitation leather front seats, a power driver’s seat, 17-inch alloys and a panoramic glass roof. Its $42,990 list price is cut to $39,990 until 31 December under BYD’s Pick your perk offer.

Both grades pair a 1.5-litre petrol engine with a 145kW/300Nm front electric motor. AC charging is 3.3kW and there’s no DC fast charging. The Essential is lighter and quicker, reaching 100km/h in 7.8 seconds against 8.9 seconds for the Premium.

In the video we compare it with the Atto 2 EV, the BYD Sealion 5 and the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, and look at running costs, including road user charges of $38 per 1,000km.

Our full review of the Atto 2 DM-i is in the November issue of NZ Autocar, on sale now. Subscribe to NZ Autocar in print or digital.