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BYD Dolphin vs Hyundai IONIQ 5 comparison

Compare performance (204 HP vs 229 HP), boot space and price (29,700 £ vs 43,300 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – BYD Dolphin or Hyundai IONIQ 5?

BYD Dolphin vs Hyundai IONIQ 5: Key differences

BYD Dolphin

4 (4 Reviews)
rate
  • considerably cheaper
  • only slightly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • a bit lighter
details

Hyundai IONIQ 5

4.9 (3 Reviews)
rate
  • a bit more power
  • very slightly more efficient
  • noticeably more electric range
  • visibly more trunk space
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

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

BYD Dolphin is considerably cheaper – starting at 29,700 £ , while the Hyundai IONIQ 5 costs 43,300 £ . That’s a price difference of around 13,637 £.

In terms of energy consumption, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 is very slightly more efficient: consuming 15.6 kWh/100km compared to 15.9 kWh/100km for the BYD Dolphin. That’s a difference of about 0.3 kWh/100km.

As for electric range, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 offers noticeably more range – reaching up to 570 km, about 143 km more than the BYD Dolphin.

IONIQ 5

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 offers a bit more power – delivering 229 HP compared to 204 HP. That’s roughly 25 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the BYD Dolphin is only slightly quicker – completing the sprint in 7 s, while the Hyundai IONIQ 5 takes 7.5 s. That’s about 0.5 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Hyundai IONIQ 5 delivers somewhat more torque with 350 Nm compared to 310 Nm. That’s about 40 Nm more.

Dolphin

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.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, BYD Dolphin is a bit lighter – 1,658 kg compared to 1,955 kg. The difference is around 297 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 offers visibly more boot space – 520 L compared to 345 L. That’s a difference of about 175 L.

When it comes to payload, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 carries markedly more – 530 kg compared to 410 kg. That’s a difference of about 120 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 comes out clearly ahead 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 £43,300
IONIQ 5

Hyundai IONIQ 5

  • Engine Type Electric
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Drive Type Rear-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 170 - 229 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km 15.6 - 16 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range 440 - 570 km
details

Frequently compared as well

BYD Dolphin
BYD Dolphin Surf
VS
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 …
Hyundai IONIQ 5
Toyota C-HR+
VS
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 and the Toyota C‑HR represent two very different choices: the IONIQ 5 is a purpose-built electric vehicle offering long range, rapid charging and a spacious, tech-forward cabin, while the Toyota C‑HR is a compact, style-focused crossover prioritizing efficiency and urban …
BYD Dolphin
Hyundai IONIQ 5

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

BYD Dolphin

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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Reviews BYD Dolphin

4 (4 Reviews)
rate
Mark Kennedy
12 Apr 2026, 17:25:08

Absolute gem of a car, wonderfully smooth and powerful, along with being loaded with tech. By far the best car I've had. Would highly recommend

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Commuter (short/medium distance)
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
John Maskell
3 Jan 2026, 07:26:24

Loving the dolphin

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

Hyundai IONIQ 5

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 looks like a spaceship that moved into suburbia, pairing bold retro‑futuristic styling with a roomy, cleverly laid-out cabin that makes long trips surprisingly comfortable. Its electric character delivers instant, silky acceleration and low running costs, making it a smart, slightly cheeky pick for buyers who want tech, practicality and personality without the drama.

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Reviews Hyundai IONIQ 5

4.9 (3 Reviews)
rate
Matze
30 Jun 2026, 17:58:46

An excellent electric CUV (subjective impression): plenty of power as an AWD, great equipment (N Line X), range is okay and consumption is reasonable, and the looks are simply different from the others.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): City / Short distance
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Javi Rodman
4 Jan 2026, 17:25:22

The best of the best. Comfortable, practical, economical, fun, spacious, with all the ADAS and safety systems. What more could you ask for?

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

Frequently compared as well

Hyundai IONIQ 5
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BYD Dolphin
BYD Atto 2
VS
The BYD Dolphin and BYD Atto 2 represent two distinct EV choices from BYD: the Dolphin is a compact, city-oriented hatchback focused on efficiency and nimble urban driving, while the Atto 2 is a compact crossover offering more space, a higher driving position and richer tech. Choose the Dolphin for …
Hyundai IONIQ 5
ZEEKR 7X
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Hyundai IONIQ 5 nails the easy-going EV brief with a lounge-like cabin, punchy performance, and super-fast charging, while the Zeekr 7X fires back with a slick, tech-laden interior and a sportier vibe that begs to be driven. If you want calm and clever, pick the Hyundai; if you fancy a futuristic …
BYD Dolphin
VW ID.3
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Comparing the BYD Dolphin and the Volkswagen ID.3 gives a clear picture of two distinct approaches to compact electric hatchbacks: the Dolphin emphasizes value, efficiency and clever packaging, while the ID.3 leans on refinement, driving dynamics and European build quality. If you prioritise range, …
BYD Dolphin
MG MG4 Urban
VS
As electric hatchbacks aimed at city buyers, the BYD Dolphin and the MG4 Urban offer practical range and strong value but differ in driving character and tech focus. This comparison highlights the key differences in range, interior space, charging, and driving experience so you can pick the better …
Hyundai IONIQ 5
Skoda Elroq
VS
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 and Skoda Elroq offer two distinct takes on the compact electric crossover: the IONIQ 5 shines with bold styling, rapid charging and advanced tech, while the Elroq prioritises practical space, sensible packaging and everyday usability. Your choice will hinge on whether you value …
BYD Dolphin
Tesla Model 3
VS
BYD Dolphin and Tesla Model 3 go head-to-head: compare performance, space, features and price in one quick overview to see which model suits your daily driving, budget and lifestyle better. A clear, side-by-side look helps you make the smarter choice. || Unsure whether the BYD Dolphin or the Tesla …
BYD Dolphin
Renault R5
VS
If you want no-nonsense electric practicality and impressive value for daily miles, the BYD Dolphin delivers usable range, clever packaging and tech that actually matters without breaking the bank. The Renault 5, meanwhile, sacrifices a little practicality for irresistible retro charm and …
BYD Dolphin
Hyundai IONIQ 5

Costs and Consumption
Price
29,700 - 31,400 £
Price
43,300 - 46,100 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
15.9 kWh/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
15.6 - 16 kWh/100km
Electric Range
427 km
Electric Range
440 - 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
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,658 kg
Curb weight
1,955 - 2,060 kg
Trunk capacity
345 L
Trunk capacity
520 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,770 mm
Width
1,890 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
410 kg
Payload
515 - 530 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
Power HP
204 HP
Power HP
170 - 229 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.5 - 8.5 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
310 Nm
Torque
350 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
150 kW
Power kW
125 - 168 kW
Engine capacity
-
Engine capacity
-

General
Model Year
2023
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
BYD
Brand
Hyundai
What drive types are available for the BYD Dolphin?

The BYD Dolphin is available as 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.