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BYD Dolphin vs Kia Seltos comparison

Compare performance (204 HP vs 180 HP), boot space and price (29,700 £ vs 29,300 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – BYD Dolphin or Kia Seltos?

BYD Dolphin vs Kia Seltos: Key differences

BYD Dolphin

4 (4 Reviews)
rate
  • somewhat more power
  • visibly quicker 0–100 km/h
details

Kia Seltos

  • very slightly cheaper
  • only slightly lighter
  • clearly 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:

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.

Kia Seltos is very slightly cheaper – starting at 29,300 £ , while the BYD Dolphin costs 29,700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 386 £.

Dolphin

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 offers somewhat more power – delivering 204 HP compared to 180 HP. That’s roughly 24 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the BYD Dolphin is visibly quicker – completing the sprint in 7 s, while the Kia Seltos takes 8.8 s. That’s about 1.8 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the BYD Dolphin delivers a bit more torque with 310 Nm compared to 265 Nm. That’s about 45 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, Kia Seltos is only slightly lighter – 1,515 kg compared to 1,658 kg. The difference is around 143 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Kia Seltos offers clearly more boot space – 536 L compared to 345 L. That’s a difference of about 191 L.

When it comes to payload, the Kia Seltos carries a bit more – 495 kg compared to 410 kg. That’s a difference of about 85 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

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.

from £29,700
Dolphin

BYD Dolphin

  • Engine Type Electric
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 204 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km 15.9 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range 427 km
details

Frequently compared as well

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 …
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 …
BYD Dolphin
Kia Seltos

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.

details
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000AECC3-AF0F-42E4-A606-040E7FB88B81
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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

Kia Seltos

The Kia Seltos is a stylish and practical compact SUV that balances urban-friendly dimensions with a confident road presence. Inside it feels thoughtfully laid out with comfortable seating and a composed ride that suits daily driving and light adventure.

details

Reviews Kia Seltos

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

Frequently compared as well

BYD Dolphin
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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 …
BYD Dolphin
VW ID.3
VS
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
Renault R5
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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
Nissan Micra
VS
Comparing the BYD Dolphin and the Nissan Micra helps buyers choose between a modern electric hatchback and a long-standing compact city car. The Dolphin brings EV range, advanced tech and a fresh design, while the Micra offers proven fuel efficiency, low running costs and familiar practicality.
BYD Dolphin
Honda Jazz
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BYD Dolphin and Honda Jazz 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 Honda …
BYD Dolphin
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BYD Dolphin
Kia EV3
VS
In the increasingly competitive electric vehicle market, the BYD Dolphin and Kia EV3 stand out with their unique features and modern designs. The Dolphin boasts impressive range and efficiency, catering to eco-conscious drivers, while the EV3 impresses with its sporty handling and advanced …
Honda ZR-V
Kia Seltos
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Honda ZR-V and Kia Seltos 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 Honda ZR-V or the Kia Seltos …
BYD Dolphin
Kia Seltos

Costs and Consumption
Price
29,700 - 31,400 £
Price
29,300 - 38,900 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
6.9 - 7.5 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
15.9 kWh/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
427 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 g/km
co2
156 - 169 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
1,515 - 1,620 kg
Trunk capacity
345 L
Trunk capacity
536 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,770 mm
Width
1,830 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
410 kg
Payload
485 - 495 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Electric
Engine Type
Petrol
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
204 HP
Power HP
180 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.8 - 9.2 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
310 Nm
Torque
265 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
150 kW
Power kW
132 kW
Engine capacity
-
Engine capacity
1,598 cm3

General
Model Year
2023
Model Year
2026
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
F
Brand
BYD
Brand
Kia
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.