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BYD Dolphin vs Toyota Yaris comparison

Compare performance (204 HP vs 280 HP), boot space and price (29,700 £ vs 21,900 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – BYD Dolphin or Toyota Yaris?

BYD Dolphin vs Toyota Yaris: Key differences

BYD Dolphin

4 (4 Reviews)
rate
  • moderately more trunk space
details

Toyota Yaris

4 (6 Reviews)
rate
  • visibly cheaper
  • clearly more power
  • visibly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • considerably lighter
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

Dolphin

BYD Dolphin vs. Toyota Yaris: A Comprehensive Comparison

The automotive market is rapidly evolving, particularly with the push towards electrification. Two models that are gaining attention in the hatchback segment are the BYD Dolphin and the Toyota Yaris. Both cars come with unique offerings, catering to various consumer needs. This article delves into the technical aspects and innovations of both vehicles to help you make an informed choice.

Yaris

Design and Dimensions

The BYD Dolphin presents itself as a modern hatchback with a sleek, aerodynamic design. Measuring 4290 mm in length, 1770 mm in width, and 1570 mm in height, it offers a spacious interior. The 5-door configuration accommodates five passengers comfortably, with a trunk capacity of 345 liters, making it a practical option for daily use.

In contrast, the Toyota Yaris has a slightly smaller footprint, with dimensions of 3940 mm in length, 1745 mm in width, and 1500 mm in height. Available in both 3-door and 5-door versions, the Yaris provides flexibility for consumers. However, with a trunk capacity that ranges from 141 liters to 286 liters, it falls short in cargo space compared to the Dolphin.

Dolphin

Powertrains and Performance

The BYD Dolphin is powered entirely by electricity, boasting an impressive 204 HP (150 kW) output from its electric motor and delivering 310 Nm of torque. With a range of 427 km on a single charge and an energy consumption of 15.9 kWh/100km, the Dolphin is efficient and well-suited for urban driving. Its front-wheel-drive system allows for swift acceleration, reaching 0-100 km/h in just 7 seconds, with a top speed of 160 km/h.

On the other hand, the Toyota Yaris offers more variety in terms of powertrains, featuring both petrol and full hybrid options. The hybrid variant produces 116 HP (85 kW) while the petrol engine can reach up to 130 HP (96 kW), varying based on the model year. With a choice of automatic or manual transmissions, including a CVT, Yaris drivers benefit from a range of driving experiences. The Yaris’s fuel consumption ranges between 3.8 to 9.5 L/100km, and it accelerates from 0-100 km/h in approximately 5.5 to 9.7 seconds, depending on the specific variant.

Yaris

Environmental Impact

In the age of climate awareness, the environmental credentials of the vehicles are paramount. The BYD Dolphin shines in this area, offering a CO2 emissions rating of 0 g/km, which emphasizes its commitment to sustainability. It is classified under CO2 Efficiency Class A, marking it as an eco-friendly choice for environmentally conscious consumers.

Conversely, the Toyota Yaris, while not fully electric, also positions itself as a fuel-efficient option with CO2 emissions ranging from 87 to 215 g/km, depending on the specific engine configuration. Its efficiency class varies from B to G, indicating that while it has a greener profile than many traditional petrol vehicles, it does not compete with the Dolphin’s zero-emission status.

Dolphin

Innovation and Technology

The BYD Dolphin not only stands out for its electric powertrain but also for its innovative features. Equipped with advanced driver assistance systems, the Dolphin incorporates technologies such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and a large infotainment screen that seamlessly integrates with smartphones for enhanced connectivity.

The Toyota Yaris is also packed with innovative features, including Toyota’s Safety Sense suite, which offers pre-collision systems, lane departure alerts, and adaptive cruise control. Furthermore, with a well-appointed interior and user-friendly infotainment system, the Yaris ensures a balanced blend of comfort and technology for drivers and passengers alike.

Conclusion: Which Hatchback is Right for You?

Choosing between the BYD Dolphin and the Toyota Yaris ultimately comes down to individual preferences and priorities. If you are leaning towards an eco-friendly, electric solution with modern tech innovations, the BYD Dolphin stands tall. However, for those seeking a versatile hatchback that combines different powertrain options with robust features, the Toyota Yaris remains a formidable contender.

Both options have their strengths and cater to different segments of the market, making this comparison essential for potential buyers looking to navigate the dynamic world of hatchbacks.

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
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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 …

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

Dolphin

Costs and Efficiency:

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

Toyota Yaris is visibly cheaper – starting at 21,900 £ , while the BYD Dolphin costs 29,700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 7,834 £.

Yaris

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 Toyota Yaris offers clearly more power – delivering 280 HP compared to 204 HP. That’s roughly 76 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Toyota Yaris is visibly quicker – completing the sprint in 5.5 s, while the BYD Dolphin takes 7 s. That’s about 1.5 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Toyota Yaris delivers markedly more torque with 390 Nm compared to 310 Nm. That’s about 80 Nm more.

Dolphin

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Toyota Yaris is considerably lighter – 1,090 kg compared to 1,658 kg. The difference is around 568 kg.

Looking at boot space, the BYD Dolphin offers moderately more boot space – 345 L compared to 286 L. That’s a difference of about 59 L.

When it comes to payload, the Toyota Yaris carries visibly more – 525 kg compared to 410 kg. That’s a difference of about 115 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Toyota Yaris is decisively 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 £21,900
Yaris

Toyota Yaris

  • Engine Type Full Hybrid, Petrol
  • Transmission Automatic, Manuel
  • Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 116 - 280 HP
  • Consumption L/100km 3.8 - 8.7 L/100km
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BYD Dolphin
Toyota Yaris

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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000AECC3-AF0F-42E4-A606-040E7FB88B81
0344F0B7-DD22-4EE0-9220-311A496628F6

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

Toyota Yaris

The Yaris is a compact hatchback that blends everyday practicality with Toyota’s long-standing reputation for reliability, making it easy to live with in city traffic. Its nimble handling and sensible interior make the Yaris a smart choice for drivers who want straightforward, fuss-free transport.

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70842-20210301yariscotykeyvisual3x2newplate-web-lr
64051-newyaris-presskit-video-turntable-web-lr

Reviews Toyota Yaris

4 (6 Reviews)
rate
Michael
22 May 2026, 20:42:12

I'll always choose toyota over honda

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Long-distance driver
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
jj
19 May 2026, 17:06:55

Good all round car with exceptional reliability.

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
Mathieu
31 Dec 2025, 13:08:43

My Toyota Yaris Hybrid is perfect: small footprint yet a reasonable boot, fuel consumption between 3.2 and 3.9 l/100 km, very comfortable even for long distances. You can fault it for its mediocre uphill acceleration on the motorway. But with speed limits of 70 to 130 km/h, it still remains too powerful.

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

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Toyota Yaris
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Meet the Toyota C‑HR and the Toyota Yaris: one dresses like a crossover pop star with dramatic styling and a taller stance, while the other is the compact, sensible hatchback built for city life. Choose the C‑HR for presence, space and a firmer ride; pick the Yaris for nimble handling, lower …
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Toyota Yaris
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Choosing between the Nissan Juke and the Toyota Yaris means deciding if you want a bold, compact crossover with distinctive styling or a practical, efficient small hatchback renowned for reliability. I’ll compare driving feel, interior space, running costs and features to help you pick the one that …
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
Toyota Yaris

Costs and Consumption
Price
29,700 - 31,400 £
Price
21,900 - 40,800 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
3.8 - 8.7 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
87 - 197 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
4 - 5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,658 kg
Curb weight
1,090 - 1,356 kg
Trunk capacity
345 L
Trunk capacity
141 - 286 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,770 mm
Width
1,745 - 1,805 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
410 kg
Payload
289 - 525 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Electric
Engine Type
Full Hybrid, Petrol
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
CVT, Manual Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
204 HP
Power HP
116 - 280 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.5 - 9.7 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
310 Nm
Torque
390 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
3
Power kW
150 kW
Power kW
85 - 206 kW
Engine capacity
-
Engine capacity
1,490 - 1,618 cm3

General
Model Year
2023
Model Year
2026
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
B, G
Brand
BYD
Brand
Toyota
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.