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BYD Dolphin Surf vs VW ID.4 comparison

Compare performance (156 HP vs 299 HP), boot space and price (19,700 £ vs 34,800 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – BYD Dolphin Surf or VW ID.4?

BYD Dolphin Surf vs VW ID.4: Key differences

BYD Dolphin Surf

4.4 (1 Reviews)
rate
  • substantially cheaper
  • considerably lighter
details

VW ID.4

4.4 (10 Reviews)
rate
  • clearly more power
  • barely more efficient
  • substantially more electric range
  • considerably quicker 0–100 km/h
details

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:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

BYD Dolphin Surf is substantially cheaper – starting at 19,700 £ , while the VW ID.4 costs 34,800 £ . That’s a price difference of around 15,077 £.

In terms of energy consumption, the VW ID.4 is barely more efficient: consuming 15.4 kWh/100km compared to 15.5 kWh/100km for the BYD Dolphin Surf. That’s a difference of about 0.1 kWh/100km.

As for electric range, the VW ID.4 offers substantially more range – reaching up to 570 km, about 248 km more than the BYD Dolphin Surf.

ID.4

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the VW ID.4 offers clearly more power – delivering 299 HP compared to 156 HP. That’s roughly 143 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW ID.4 is considerably quicker – completing the sprint in 6.1 s, while the BYD Dolphin Surf takes 9.1 s. That’s about 3 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the VW ID.4 delivers significantly more torque with 545 Nm compared to 220 Nm. That’s about 325 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: VW ID.4 offers more seats – 5 vs 4.

In terms of curb weight, BYD Dolphin Surf is considerably lighter – 1,294 kg compared to 2,065 kg. The difference is around 771 kg.

When it comes to payload, the VW ID.4 carries clearly more – 554 kg compared to 344 kg. That’s a difference of about 210 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The VW ID.4 stands well ahead of its rival 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 £34,800
ID.4

VW ID.4

  • Engine Type Electric
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Drive Type Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 190 - 299 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km 15.4 - 16.6 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range 425 - 570 km
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Frequently compared as well

VW ID.4
Skoda Elroq
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In the battle of electric SUVs, the VW ID.4 and Skoda Enyaq offer distinctive features that cater to different preferences. The ID.4 boasts a more refined interior and advanced tech options, while the Enyaq shines with its spaciousness and practicality. Ultimately, the choice between these two …
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
VW ID.4

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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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

VW ID.4

The VW ID.4 is a practical, family-friendly electric SUV that balances everyday usability with a calm, composed driving character. It pairs a roomy, well-finished cabin and easy-to-use tech with predictable handling and convenient charging options, making it a sensible choice for buyers switching to electric.

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Reviews VW ID.4

4.4 (10 Reviews)
rate
Figge
28 May 2026, 11:16:12

The electric drivetrain pays off, especially in turbulent times like these. EVs have left their teething problems behind and now also offer good range.

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
Jan Hansen
10 Apr 2026, 21:40:06

It's a technologically advanced car, but somewhere along the way VW forgot the pleasant cabin and the comfortable ride. It IS a VW — and that redeems it.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Leisure / Weekend driver
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Achim
7 Apr 2026, 15:55:42

The ID.4 is a bit pricey, but very pleasant to drive. Its winter range could be better — then again, that's a problem all EVs are facing right now.

Tore
1 Mar 2026, 23:15:24

An ID.4 with 340 hp is not comparable to the Aiways U5! The U5 only has 204 hp! The ID.4’s boot is too small, rear legroom is too tight, no frunk, and it’s a bit confusing…

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Company car / Business
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Kenneth Kjeldsen
13 Dec 2025, 11:57:52

I have an ID.4 GTX and it drives like a dream — loads of extra power, sits well on the road, high seating position, quiet. I can see other cars have bigger screens, but mine works fine.

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

Frequently compared as well

BYD Dolphin Surf
MG MG4 Urban
VS
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.
VW ID.4
VW ID.5
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The Volkswagen ID.4 and ID.5 share the same electric underpinnings but target different tastes: the ID.4 is a practical compact SUV, while the ID.5 wears a sleeker, coupé-like profile for a more stylish look. This comparison will help you choose between everyday practicality and interior space …
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VW ID.4
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Choosing between the VW ID.3 and the VW ID.4 means deciding between a compact hatchback-style electric built for city driving and a roomier compact SUV that prioritizes cargo space and versatility. I’ll compare range, practicality, driving feel and running costs so you can see which one suits your …
BYD Dolphin
BYD Dolphin Surf
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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 …
VW ID.4
VW ID.7
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The VW ID.4 and VW ID.7 showcase Volkswagen’s electric lineup in two distinct packages: the ID.4 is a practical compact SUV while the ID.7 is a sleeker, more spacious sedan aimed at long-distance comfort. This comparison highlights how the ID.4’s everyday versatility stacks up against the ID.7’s …
Hyundai Inster
BYD Dolphin Surf
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The Hyundai Inster and the BYD Dolphin Surf are two fresh contenders in the compact car segment, each taking a different approach to styling, technology and everyday practicality. This comparison will highlight the key differences in comfort, efficiency, driving feel and value so you can pick the …
Ford Explorer EV
VW ID.4
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The Ford Explorer EV brings American swagger to the MEB party with punchy performance and a clever sliding 14.6-inch screen, while the VW ID.4 counters with calm refinement, strong efficiency, and a well-proven ownership experience. Want character and kit for the money? Go Explorer; crave serenity …
Toyota Yaris
BYD Dolphin Surf
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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 …
BYD Dolphin Surf
VW ID.4

Costs and Consumption
Price
19,700 - 26,600 £
Price
34,800 - 47,600 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
15.5 - 16 kWh/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
15.4 - 16.6 kWh/100km
Electric Range
220 - 322 km
Electric Range
425 - 570 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 g/km
co2
0 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
SUV
Seats
4
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,294 - 1,390 kg
Curb weight
2,065 - 2,219 kg
Trunk capacity
308 L
Trunk capacity
-
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,720 mm
Width
1,852 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
344 kg
Payload
525 - 554 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Electric
Engine Type
Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
88 - 156 HP
Power HP
190 - 299 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.1 - 12.1 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.1 - 8.5 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
175 - 220 Nm
Torque
310 - 545 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
65 - 115 kW
Power kW
140 - 220 kW
Engine capacity
-
Engine capacity
-

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2026
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
BYD
Brand
VW
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.