BYD Dolphin Surf

BYD Dolphin Surf: Which Version Should You Buy?

The BYD Dolphin Surf has two AT versions, both belonging to the model’s only generation and both produced from April 2025. Because the catalogue data provides no trim names or prices, the clearest way to choose is by output and acceleration: the 88 hp (64 kW) AT reaches 100 km/h in 12.1 seconds, while the 156 hp (114 kW) AT needs 9.1 seconds.

The BYD Dolphin Surf has two AT versions, both belonging to the model’s only generation and both produced from April 2025. Because the catalogue data provides no trim names or prices, the clearest way to choose is by output and acceleration: the 88 hp (64 kW) AT reaches 100 km/h in 12.1 seconds, while the 156 hp (114 kW) AT needs 9.1 seconds. Both are Electro, FWD models with an Automatic, 1-speed gearbox and a top speed of 150 km/h. The 156 hp version therefore offers 68 hp and 50 kW more, cutting 3 seconds from the 0–100 km/h time, whereas the 88 hp version provides the same listed body, drivetrain, transmission, suspension, brakes, and top speed with lower output.

BYD Dolphin Surf generations and version choice

The BYD Dolphin Surf has one generation, so there is no older generation to compare with the current car. The 1 generation entered production in April 2025 and has no recorded end date. It uses the Mini 5-doors body and contains two versions, both named AT in the catalogue. They must be distinguished by power: AT with 88 hp (64 kW), and AT with 156 hp (114 kW).

No restyling is listed, and the data records no changes between generations because only one generation exists. The buying decision is consequently between two power outputs within the same generation, rather than between different body styles or production eras.

BYD Dolphin Surf specs and engine comparison

Both versions use an Electro powertrain, so conventional engine-size comparisons such as displacement, litres, or cc cannot be made from the available specifications. Displacement, cylinder count, cylinder layout, boost, torque, and power-to-displacement figures are not measured for either version.

The 156 hp AT has 68 hp more than the 88 hp AT, an increase of about 77%. Its 114 kW output is 50 kW higher than the 64 kW figure of the less powerful version, an increase of about 78%. Those differences are the principal measured distinction between the two powertrains.

Despite the output gap, both versions have the same listed Automatic transmission with 1 gear and the same FWD layout. The catalogue does not provide battery capacity, battery weight, charging figures, or range, so those factors cannot be used to recommend one version over the other.

Performance, top speed, and economy

The 156 hp AT is the performance choice. It reaches 100 km/h 3 seconds sooner than the 88 hp AT, reducing the recorded acceleration time by about 25%. The extra power does not raise the listed maximum speed: both versions top out at 150 km/h.

The 88 hp AT is slower, but its 150 km/h maximum is identical to that of the 156 hp AT. A buyer who does not prioritize acceleration therefore gains no measured top-speed benefit by selecting the more powerful version.

City, highway, and combined consumption are not measured for either AT version. Range is also not measured. It is therefore impossible to establish from these data whether the 88 hp version uses less energy or travels farther than the 156 hp version. CO₂ is listed as 0 for both.

BYD Dolphin Surf dimensions, weight, and capacity

The catalogue identifies both versions as Mini 5-doors models, but exterior length and other dimensions are not measured. No size comparison can be made between the two versions, and there is no recorded dimensional difference within the generation.

Kerb weight and gross weight are not measured for either version. As a result, weight per horsepower cannot be calculated, and the data do not show whether the more powerful AT carries additional mass. Battery weight is also not measured.

Ground clearance, tank capacity, and wheel sizes are not measured for either version. Buyers should not infer that these values are identical merely because both cars belong to the same generation.

Suspension and brakes

Both AT versions have Independent, spring front suspension and Semi-independent, springorts hélicoïdaux, sem rear suspension, using the English catalogue labels exactly as supplied. Both also have Ventilated disc front brakes and Disc rear brakes.

No measured difference in suspension or braking equipment separates the 88 hp and 156 hp versions. On the listed chassis specifications, neither has an advantage.

BYD Dolphin Surf price, range, problems, and reliability

Price and price in USD are not measured, so the catalogue cannot calculate how much more the 156 hp version costs or whether its additional performance represents better value. The measurable benefit of choosing it is 68 hp, 50 kW, and a 3-second reduction in the 0–100 km/h time. What the “extra money” buys cannot be assessed without a measured price difference.

Range and energy consumption are not measured for either version. Problems and reliability results are also not measured. There is consequently no factual basis here for ranking the versions by operating cost, range, reliability, or likely repair requirements.

Which BYD Dolphin Surf version should you buy?

Choose the AT with 156 hp (114 kW) if acceleration is the deciding factor. It reaches 100 km/h in 9.1 seconds, compared with 12.1 seconds for the 88 hp version. That is a 3-second advantage backed by 68 additional horsepower and 50 additional kilowatts.

Choose the AT with 88 hp (64 kW) if you do not need the quicker measured acceleration. It retains the same 150 km/h top speed, Electro fuel type, Automatic 1-speed gearbox, FWD layout, listed suspension, and listed brakes as the 156 hp version. However, the available figures do not prove that it is cheaper, lighter, more efficient, or capable of a longer range.

On the evidence provided, the 156 hp AT is the stronger performance purchase, while the 88 hp AT is the lower-output alternative with the same recorded maximum speed and core mechanical layout. A broader value recommendation is not possible because price, range, consumption, dimensions, and weight are not measured.