BYD has announced UK pricing and specifications for the new DOLPHIN G DM-i, introducing what the company describes as the only plug-in hybrid supermini currently available in the segment. Combining compact dimensions with everyday practicality and extended driving capability, the new model aims to bridge the gap between fully electric vehicles and conventional hybrids.
Available to order now, the BYD DOLPHIN G DM-i starts from £23,990, with the first customer deliveries scheduled for September.
Designed for drivers looking to reduce fuel consumption without sacrificing long-distance usability, the DOLPHIN G DM-i pairs BYD’s latest Super Hybrid DM technology with the company’s Blade Battery. The result is an EV-like driving experience for daily journeys while retaining the flexibility of a petrol engine for longer trips.
The flagship version offers up to 65 miles (WLTP) of electric-only driving range, allowing many daily commutes to be completed without using any fuel.
Four Trim Levels Available
The BYD DOLPHIN G DM-i is offered in Active, Boost, Comfort and Sport trims, with a generous level of standard equipment across the range.
Every model comes equipped with LED headlights, heated and electrically adjustable door mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, automatic climate control, an 8.8-inch digital driver display, satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Safety is another strong selling point. Standard driver assistance features include adaptive cruise control, blind-spot detection, traffic sign recognition, and front and rear parking sensors on every version.
Sunset Orange is included as the standard exterior finish, while Skiing White, Time Grey, Obsidian Black and Ocean Blue are available as optional premium paint finishes.
Active: Entry-Level Hybrid From £23,990
The Active model serves as the entry point to the lineup and features a 7.4 kWh Blade Battery paired with 3.3 kW AC charging.
Key specifications include:
– Price: £23,990
– Electric-only range: 24.8 miles
– Combined driving range: 633 miles
– Fuel economy: 108.6 mpg (weighted WLTP)
– 16-inch alloy wheels
– 10.1-inch rotating touchscreen
– Rear-view camera
– Fabric upholstery
– Four-speaker audio system
Boost: Larger Battery and Longer EV Range
Priced from £26,990, the Boost introduces a significantly larger 18.3 kWh Blade Battery, increasing the electric driving range to 65 miles.
Performance also improves, with total system output rising from 176 PS to 212 PS.
Additional upgrades include:
– Combined range of 646 miles
– Weighted fuel economy of 201.7 mpg
– 6.6 kW AC charging
– DC fast charging up to 39 kW
– Heated front seats
– Electrically folding mirrors
– Privacy glass
– 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen
– Eight-speaker audio system
– Wireless cooled smartphone charging
– Multi-colour ambient lighting
Comfort Adds Google Built-in
The Comfort trim starts at £28,490 and focuses on technology and convenience.
Highlights include:
– 18-inch alloy wheels
– Electrically adjustable driver’s seat
– Fabric and vegan leather upholstery
– 360-degree surround-view camera
– Google Built-in with Google Maps, Google Assistant and Google Play Store integration
These additions further enhance the DOLPHIN G DM-i’s appeal as a technology-focused family hatchback.
Sport Tops the Range
The range-topping Sport model is priced from £29,490.
It stands apart with black 18-inch alloy wheels, artificial suede upholstery and unique interior accents available in orange or blue. Exterior colour choices are exclusive to Sunset Orange and Ocean Blue, giving the flagship model a sportier appearance.
Affordable Electrified Motoring
With a starting price below £24,000, the BYD DOLPHIN G DM-i enters the UK market as one of the most affordable plug-in hybrid hatchbacks available. Its combination of compact dimensions, generous equipment, long electric driving range and overall driving range of up to 646 miles makes it an attractive option for buyers who want many of the benefits of an electric vehicle without relying exclusively on public charging infrastructure.
As demand for electrified vehicles continues to grow, the DOLPHIN G DM-i strengthens BYD’s expanding UK lineup by offering an accessible alternative for drivers seeking lower running costs and greater flexibility than a traditional battery-electric vehicle. With customer deliveries beginning in September, the new supermini is set to become one of the brand’s most important models in the compact car segment.
