The promise of a sub-€20,000 electric car is no longer a dream, and the BYD Dolphin Surf makes that promise feel remarkably tangible and genuinely useful. For urban drivers who want real-world range and modern tech without budget shock, this pint-sized contender offers a blend of value and daily liveability that’s hard to ignore. It undercuts many rivals on price, yet still delivers credible performance, thoughtful packaging, and a surprising list of standard features.
Price that moves the needle
At €19,990, the Dolphin Surf drops below a key psychological threshold, inviting first-time EV buyers into the fold. This isn’t a bare-bones shell with a battery; it’s a properly equipped city car with connected navigation, active safety systems, and a usable set of comforts. Even with Europe’s added tariffs, the pricing looks aggressive, and that makes competitors either look expensive or oddly under-spec’d at similar money.
Design made for tight streets
The footprint is compact at 3.99 m, which makes parking simple and threading traffic stress-free. The upright stance delivers good visibility and easy cabin access, while crisp body lines keep the look modern and clean. Color choices are fairly limited, but the overall design favors practical aerodynamics and urban maneuverability over flash-for-flash’s-sake.
Space that’s smart, if selective
Inside, the dashboard feels contemporary and neatly laid-out, with materials that avoid a bargain-bin vibe even at this price. BYD saves costs with some hard plastics, yet the cabin still seems thoughtfully finished. It’s officially a four-seater, which will be a deal-breaker for some families, but the two rear spots are genuinely roomy for adults, with ample leg and head space. The 306-liter trunk is decent, though the missing parcel shelf is a clear miss.
Infotainment that mostly delivers
A 10.1-inch central screen, with BYD’s signature rotating trick, anchors the tech suite. Wireless smartphone mirroring works in landscape, and the native navigation now plans charging stops more intelligently, even if estimates can be optimistic. Some menu paths are too deep, but overall responsiveness is snappy and feature coverage feels complete for the segment. Climate controls are digital-first and a bit quirky, yet day-to-day operation quickly becomes intuitive.
Performance where it counts
Around town, the Dolphin Surf is brisk, light on its feet, and easy to place. The higher-powered version pairs a 43.2 kWh LFP pack with a 156 hp front motor, good for a 0–100 km/h run in about 9.1 seconds. Steering is city-friendly, the turning circle is pleasantly tight, and the ride, while firm, stays acceptably composed over rough streets. Regen is mild but predictable, and brake feel is refreshingly natural.
“Affordable EVs only matter if they’re easy to live with day after day; this one keeps that promise with honest range, calm manners, and real equipment.”
Range, charging, and versions
The entry model uses a smaller 30 kWh pack for up to 220 km WLTP, perfectly aligned with urban use and short regional hops. Higher trims add the 43.2 kWh battery, stretching WLTP range to about 310 km, and enable up to 85 kW DC charging from 10–80% in roughly 30 minutes. Efficiency claims are competitive, and real-world consumption looks favorable in city-heavy driving.
Value versus rivals
At this price, the Dolphin Surf undercuts many small EVs, yet matches or exceeds them on equipment. Some European rivals may boast stronger branding or local incentives, but BYD counters with generous tech, reassuring active safety, and credible range. Even mid-level versions bring bigger batteries, larger wheels, and convenience upgrades that make everyday life feel distinctly more premium than the ticket suggests.
Why it deserves your attention
- Sub-€20k starting price with real-world usability and modern tech
- Comfortable four-seat cabin with honest space and calm road manners
- Strong value on safety and driver-assist features at every trim
- Efficient city performance with confident low-speed punch
- Simple to park, simple to charge, and simple to own
Trade-offs to note
The four-seat layout limits occasional carpooling, and some menu logic could be streamlined. An absent rear wiper is a surprising omission, and color choices are rather sparse. Still, these compromises are easy to weigh against the car’s pricing, its equipment depth, and its well-judged urban character.
The verdict
The Dolphin Surf lands where it matters most: attainable pricing, convincing features, and city-ready manners that make EV ownership feel refreshingly normal. If you want a compact electric runabout that’s well-equipped, easy to drive, and genuinely budget-friendly, this one more than earns a spot on your short-list.
