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BYD Dolphin Surf vs Kia Picanto comparison

Compare performance (156 HP vs 68 HP), boot space and price (19,700 £ vs 15,100 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – BYD Dolphin Surf or Kia Picanto?

BYD Dolphin Surf vs Kia Picanto: Key differences

BYD Dolphin Surf

4.4 (1 Reviews)
rate
  • substantially more power
  • substantially quicker 0–100 km/h
  • moderately more trunk space
details

Kia Picanto

4.4 (4 Reviews)
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  • clearly cheaper
  • somewhat lighter
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All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Dolphin Surf

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Kia Picanto is clearly cheaper – starting at 15,100 £ , while the BYD Dolphin Surf costs 19,700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 4,628 £.

Picanto

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the BYD Dolphin Surf offers substantially more power – delivering 156 HP compared to 68 HP. That’s roughly 88 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the BYD Dolphin Surf is substantially quicker – completing the sprint in 9.1 s, while the Kia Picanto takes 14.6 s. That’s about 5.5 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the BYD Dolphin Surf delivers substantially more torque with 220 Nm compared to 96 Nm. That’s about 124 Nm more.

Dolphin Surf

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Seats: Kia Picanto offers more seats – 5 vs 4.

In terms of curb weight, Kia Picanto is somewhat lighter – 1,124 kg compared to 1,294 kg. The difference is around 170 kg.

Looking at boot space, the BYD Dolphin Surf offers moderately more boot space – 308 L compared to 255 L. That’s a difference of about 53 L.

When it comes to payload, the BYD Dolphin Surf carries very slightly more – 344 kg compared to 332 kg. That’s a difference of about 12 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The BYD Dolphin Surf holds a decisive overall lead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £19,700
Dolphin Surf

BYD Dolphin Surf

  • Engine Type Electric
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 88 - 156 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km 15.5 - 16 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range 220 - 322 km
details

Frequently compared as well

BYD Dolphin Surf
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The BYD Dolphin Surf and the MG4 Urban are compact electric hatchbacks that target buyers who want a practical, tech-rich EV without blowing the budget. This comparison focuses on range, performance, interior space, and value to help you pick the better fit for daily driving and city life.
BYD Dolphin Surf
Renault Twingo
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We pit the cheeky BYD Dolphin Surf against the compact Renault Twingo to find out which small car deserves your city-driving crown. The Dolphin Surf brings electric refinement and modern tech to the party, while the Twingo trades on nimble handling and fuss-free simplicity — your choice depends on …
BYD Dolphin Surf
Kia Picanto

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

BYD Dolphin Surf

The BYD Dolphin Surf is an intriguing model that combines sleek design with modern electric technology, making it an appealing choice for urban commuters seeking sustainability and style. Its dynamic exterior design is complemented by an interior that prioritizes comfort and functionality, reflecting the brand's commitment to innovation. The model also offers impressive handling and a smooth driving experience, embodying the shift towards eco-friendly transportation.

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BYD_Dolphin_Surf__251_UK05BYD
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BYD_Dolphin_Surf__195

Reviews BYD Dolphin Surf

4.4 (1 Reviews)
rate
Dieter Schönrock
9 Jun 2026, 07:04:54

The Dolphin Surf is especially appealing because of the entry height and the low step-in. The amount of space is very good. It's a pity it has no towing capacity — around 500–600 kg would be great. The Dolphin Surf is better suited for older people than the R5.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

Kia Picanto

Kia Picanto is a cheeky city hatch that squeezes surprising style, practicality and a smile-inducing drive into a pocket-friendly package. It’s ideal for urban buyers who want fuss-free running, effortless parking and a car that punches above its class without pretending to be anything it’s not.

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Kia_Picanto_GT_Line_MJ21_03
Kia Picanto X-Line_02
Kia_Picanto_MJ22_Innen_01

Reviews Kia Picanto

4.4 (4 Reviews)
rate

No reviews yet. Share your experience and help others decide.

Frequently compared as well

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The BYD Dolphin and the sportier Dolphin Surf share the same efficient electric bones, but the Surf adds visual muscle, slightly firmer suspension and sharper steering for anyone craving a bit more attitude. Inside they’re twins — clever packaging, roomy rear seats and a useful boot — so the Surf’s …
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The Kia Picanto and Kia Stonic are closely related but aimed at different needs: the Picanto is a pint-sized city hatch built for nimble urban driving and low running costs, while the Stonic is a small crossover that adds higher seating, extra boot space and a more rugged presence. This comparison …
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Toyota Yaris
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Comparing the Toyota Yaris and the BYD Dolphin gives a clear look at two small cars taking very different paths—one built on proven compact efficiency, the other pushing electric innovation and fresh styling. If you’re weighing traditional reliability and fuel economy against modern EV tech and …
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BYD Dolphin Surf
Kia Picanto

Costs and Consumption
Price
19,700 - 26,600 £
Price
15,100 - 19,500 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
5.5 - 5.9 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
15.5 - 16 kWh/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
220 - 322 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 g/km
co2
126 - 134 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
4
Seats
4 - 5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,294 - 1,390 kg
Curb weight
1,124 - 1,131 kg
Trunk capacity
308 L
Trunk capacity
255 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,720 mm
Width
1,595 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
344 kg
Payload
253 - 332 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Electric
Engine Type
Petrol
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Automated Manual
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
88 - 156 HP
Power HP
68 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.1 - 12.1 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
14.6 - 17.2 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
175 - 220 Nm
Torque
96 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
3
Power kW
65 - 115 kW
Power kW
50 kW
Engine capacity
-
Engine capacity
998 cm3

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
D
Brand
BYD
Brand
Kia
What drive types are available for the BYD Dolphin Surf?

Available configurations include Front-Wheel Drive.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.