Compare performance (204 HP vs 115 HP), boot space and price (29,700 £ vs 20,900 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – BYD Dolphin or Hyundai Inster?
All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.
In the competitive landscape of electric vehicles (EVs), the BYD Dolphin and Hyundai Inster stand out as two intriguing options, catering to different segments of the market. As electric mobility continues to gain momentum, consumers are often torn between budget and performance-driven choices. Let's delve deeper into the technical specifications and innovations of these two models to help potential buyers make an informed decision.
The BYD Dolphin presents itself as a sleek and modern hatchback, ideal for urban environments and daily commutes. With a length of 4290 mm, width of 1770 mm, and a height of 1570 mm, its compact design facilitates easy maneuvering and parking. The car comfortably seats five passengers and offers a trunk capacity of 345 liters, making it a practical choice for small families or individuals needing extra cargo space.
On the other hand, the Hyundai Inster takes the form of an SUV, designed for those who prioritize space and versatility. Ranging from 3825 mm to 3845 mm in length, and with a width of 1610 mm, it provides a higher driving position with enhanced visibility. The Inster is more limited in seating capacity, accommodating four passengers, and has a trunk capacity ranging from 238 to 280 liters, depending on the battery variant selected.
The BYD Dolphin is powered by a robust electric motor generating up to 204 HP (150 kW) and torque of 310 Nm. This combination allows it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7 seconds, ensuring a lively and responsive driving experience. Notably, the Dolphin has an impressive electric range of 427 km on a single charge, making it suitable for both city driving and longer journeys with minimal range anxiety. Its efficient energy consumption of 15.9 kWh/100 km further enhances its appeal, supporting eco-friendly driving.
Contrastingly, the Hyundai Inster offers various power options, ranging from 97 HP (71 kW) to 115 HP (85 kW), depending on the chosen battery variant. While these figures fall short compared to the Dolphin, the Inster still provides respectable performance, with acceleration times between 10.6 and 11.7 seconds for 0-100 km/h. The electric range is commendable, ranging from 327 km to 370 km, depending on battery size. Its energy consumption varies slightly but remains efficient, falling between 14.3 and 15.1 kWh/100 km.
Both vehicles incorporate innovative technologies aimed at enhancing the driving experience and safety. The BYD Dolphin's CO2 efficiency class is rated at an impressive "A," representing its commitment to sustainability. It features a reduction gearbox that contributes to its smooth and quiet operation, characteristic of electric vehicles.
The Hyundai Inster, while not as powerful, integrates its own set of technologies focused on comfort and connectivity. Mindful of urban mobility needs, the Inster is equipped with the latest driver-assistance features, balanced with a user-friendly infotainment system. Its compact SUV build allows it to handle various road conditions with ease, making it a versatile choice for diverse driving environments.
Choosing between the BYD Dolphin and the Hyundai Inster ultimately boils down to personal preference and specific driving needs. The Dolphin's higher power output, superior range, and spacious interior may appeal more to families or individuals who prioritize performance and reliability during commutes or longer trips.
Conversely, the Hyundai Inster's SUV design, combined with its accessible price point and variety of battery options, makes it an attractive choice for city dwellers or those seeking a compact vehicle without the need for extreme performance.
As the electric vehicle market evolves, both the BYD Dolphin and Hyundai Inster offer unique advantages, each catering to distinct consumer needs while promoting eco-friendly driving solutions.
Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.
Hyundai Inster is significantly cheaper – starting at 20,900 £ , while the BYD Dolphin costs 29,700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 8,777 £.
In terms of energy consumption, the Hyundai Inster is a bit more efficient: consuming 14.3 kWh/100km compared to 15.9 kWh/100km for the BYD Dolphin. That’s a difference of about 1.6 kWh/100km.
As for electric range, the BYD Dolphin offers somewhat more range – reaching up to 427 km, about 57 km more than the Hyundai Inster.
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 BYD Dolphin offers clearly more power – delivering 204 HP compared to 115 HP. That’s roughly 89 HP more horsepower.
When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the BYD Dolphin is considerably quicker – completing the sprint in 7 s, while the Hyundai Inster takes 10.6 s. That’s about 3.6 s quicker.
There’s also a difference in torque: the BYD Dolphin delivers clearly more torque with 310 Nm compared to 147 Nm. That’s about 163 Nm more.
Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?
Seats: BYD Dolphin offers more seats – 5 vs 4.
In terms of curb weight, Hyundai Inster is noticeably lighter – 1,380 kg compared to 1,658 kg. The difference is around 278 kg.
Looking at boot space, the BYD Dolphin offers moderately more boot space – 345 L compared to 280 L. That’s a difference of about 65 L.
When it comes to payload, the BYD Dolphin carries somewhat more – 410 kg compared to 357 kg. That’s a difference of about 53 kg.
The BYD Dolphin is far ahead overall 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.
The BYD Dolphin is a cheeky electric hatchback that blends playful styling with surprising practicality, making it a brilliant city companion for buyers who want modern tech without the showroom bravado. It’s comfy, efficient and easy to live with, and while it won’t blind you with supercar drama, it will quietly get the job done with plenty of character.
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The Inster has quickly captured the attention of automotive enthusiasts with its striking design and dynamic performance. This model seamlessly blends advanced technology with comfort, making it an ideal choice for both daily commutes and adventurous road trips. With its spacious interior and innovative features, the Inster promises an exhilarating driving experience that doesn’t compromise on practicality.
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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
29,700 - 31,400 £
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Price
20,900 - 26,200 £
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Consumption L/100km
-
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Consumption L/100km
-
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Consumption kWh/100km
15.9 kWh/100km
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Consumption kWh/100km
14.3 - 15.1 kWh/100km
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Electric Range
427 km
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Electric Range
327 - 370 km
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Battery Capacity
-
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Battery Capacity
-
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co2
0 g/km
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co2
0 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
-
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Fuel tank capacity
-
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Dimensions and Body |
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Body Type
Hatchback
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Body Type
SUV
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Seats
5
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Seats
4
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Doors
-
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Doors
-
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Curb weight
1,658 kg
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Curb weight
1,380 - 1,433 kg
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Trunk capacity
345 L
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Trunk capacity
238 - 280 L
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Length
-
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Length
-
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Width
1,770 mm
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Width
1,610 mm
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Height
-
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Height
-
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Max trunk capacity
-
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Max trunk capacity
-
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Payload
410 kg
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Payload
317 - 357 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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Engine Type
Electric
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Engine Type
Electric
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
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Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
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Power HP
204 HP
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Power HP
97 - 115 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
7 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
10.6 - 11.7 s
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Max Speed
-
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Max Speed
-
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Torque
310 Nm
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Torque
147 Nm
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Number of Cylinders
-
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Number of Cylinders
-
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Power kW
150 kW
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Power kW
71 - 85 kW
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Engine capacity
-
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Engine capacity
-
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General |
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Model Year
2023
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Model Year
2025
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CO2 Efficiency Class
A
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CO2 Efficiency Class
A
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Brand
BYD
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Brand
Hyundai
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Deutschland
France
Nederland
Great Britain
Sverige
Danmark
Suomi
Italia
Polska
Česko
España