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BYD Dolphin vs VW ID.3 comparison

Compare performance (204 HP vs 326 HP), boot space and price (29,700 £ vs 28,600 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – BYD Dolphin or VW ID.3?

BYD Dolphin vs VW ID.3: Key differences

BYD Dolphin

4 (4 Reviews)
rate
  • only slightly lighter
details

VW ID.3

4.9 (3 Reviews)
rate
  • marginally cheaper
  • noticeably more power
  • only slightly more efficient
  • visibly more electric range
  • markedly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • a bit 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

Dolphin

The Electric Showdown: BYD Dolphin vs. VW ID.3

In the rapidly evolving world of electric vehicles (EVs), two models are making waves and drawing comparisons from enthusiasts and critics alike: the BYD Dolphin and the VW ID.3. Both vehicles have made significant strides in innovation, design, and technology, but how do they stack up against each other? Let's delve deeper into the tech specs, performance, and the unique selling propositions of these two impressive hatchbacks.

ID.3

Design and Dimensions

The BYD Dolphin and the VW ID.3 both embody modern hatchback aesthetics but with variations catering to different tastes. The Dolphin, with its length of 4290 mm, width of 1770 mm, and height of 1570 mm, strikes a balance between a compact exterior and a spacious interior. It boasts a trunk capacity of 345 liters. Meanwhile, the VW ID.3, slightly more compact in length at 4264 mm, compensates with a broader width of 1809 mm, providing a more generous trunk space of 385 liters. The ID.3's sleek and aerodynamic design offers a bold statement on the roads.

Dolphin

Engine and Performance

Under the hood, both hatchbacks are powered by electric motors, but their drive and performance characteristics differ. The BYD Dolphin is equipped with a front-wheel drive system boasting 204 horsepower and 150 kW of power. It delivers an impressive 310 Nm of torque, getting from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7 seconds, with a top speed of 160 km/h.

The VW ID.3, on the other hand, offers a variety of power options ranging from 125 kW to a powerful 240 kW, distributed through a rear-wheel drive system. Its acceleration varies across models, with the quickest version zooming from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 5.7 seconds and achieving a top speed of 200 km/h. These variations provide potential buyers flexibility in performance and cost.

ID.3

Range and Efficiency

When it comes to electric range, both vehicles display competitive numbers. The BYD Dolphin offers a robust range of 427 km with a consumption of 15.9 kWh/100km. Meanwhile, the VW ID.3 stands strong with options starting from a 388 km range, extending up to an impressive 604 km for its higher-end variants, with a minimum consumption of 14.5 kWh/100km. These figures make the ID.3 an attractive option for those prioritizing long-distance capabilities.

Dolphin

Innovations in Technology

Both the BYD Dolphin and VW ID.3 come equipped with cutting-edge technology that enhances the driving experience. They feature automatic transmission systems with reduction gearboxes, ensuring smooth and efficient power delivery. Both vehicles embrace the ethos of sustainability with a CO2 efficiency class rating of A, thanks to their zero-emission electric powertrains.

ID.3

Conclusion

The BYD Dolphin and VW ID.3 represent the future of hatchbacks in the electric vehicle market. While the Dolphin impresses with its acceleration and straightforward performance metrics, the ID.3 stands out with its range variability and rear-wheel drive dynamics. Personal preferences regarding design, performance, range, and brand loyalty will ultimately guide potential buyers in their decision-making process. Whichever model one chooses, both cars mark a significant step forward in the transition to sustainable mobility.

Frequently compared as well

BYD Dolphin
BYD Atto 2
VS
The BYD Dolphin is a zippy, compact EV built for urban life — efficient, easy to park and kind on the wallet, making it a brilliant daily driver for city dwellers. The BYD Atto 2 swaps hatchback frugality for crossover comfort and tech, offering more space, range and kit for buyers who value …
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 …

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.

VW ID.3 is marginally cheaper – starting at 28,600 £ , while the BYD Dolphin costs 29,700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 1,123 £.

In terms of energy consumption, the VW ID.3 is only slightly more efficient: consuming 14.5 kWh/100km compared to 15.9 kWh/100km for the BYD Dolphin. That’s a difference of about 1.4 kWh/100km.

As for electric range, the VW ID.3 offers visibly more range – reaching up to 605 km, about 178 km more than the BYD Dolphin.

ID.3

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.3 offers noticeably more power – delivering 326 HP compared to 204 HP. That’s roughly 122 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW ID.3 is markedly quicker – completing the sprint in 5.7 s, while the BYD Dolphin takes 7 s. That’s about 1.3 s quicker.

Looking at top speed, the VW ID.3 is somewhat faster – reaching 200 km/h, while the BYD Dolphin tops out at 160 km/h. The difference is around 40 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: the VW ID.3 delivers substantially more torque with 545 Nm compared to 310 Nm. That’s about 235 Nm more.

Dolphin

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, BYD Dolphin is only slightly lighter – 1,658 kg compared to 1,787 kg. The difference is around 129 kg.

Looking at boot space, the VW ID.3 offers a bit more boot space – 385 L compared to 345 L. That’s a difference of about 40 L.

For maximum load capacity, the BYD Dolphin offers marginally more capacity – up to 1,310 L, about 43 L more than the VW ID.3.

When it comes to payload, the VW ID.3 carries slightly more – 473 kg compared to 410 kg. That’s a difference of about 63 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The VW ID.3 holds a decisive overall lead 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 £28,600
ID.3

VW ID.3

  • Engine Type : Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Rear-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 170 - 326 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 14.5 - 15.8 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range : 383 - 605 km
details
BYD Dolphin
VW ID.3

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
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

VW ID.3

The VW ID.3 is a crisply styled electric hatch that masks serious practicality behind a friendly, modern face, making city runs and longer trips pleasantly fuss free. For buyers seeking a sensible, well-equipped EV that doesn't take itself too seriously, the ID.3 strikes a neat balance of comfort, tech and everyday usability with a cheeky smile.

details
DB2020AU01067_medium
DB2019AU01515_medium
DB2019AU01516_medium
DB2020AU01118_medium
DB2020AU01119_medium
DB2020AU01097_medium
DB2020AU01100_medium

Reviews VW ID.3

4.9 (3 Reviews)
rate
Mr C Blagdon
14 Jan 2026, 12:07:54

Great all rounder, surprisingly spacious cabin. Rapid and refined. Not quiet enough space in the boot for a bike, could use more ground clearance.

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

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VW ID.3
VS
The Renault 5 arrives as a cheeky retro reboot — compact, full of personality and perfect for nimble city living — while the VW ID.3 plays the sensible electric family car, offering more range, room and that reassuringly German calm. If you want fun and style for town runs choose the Renault 5; if …
VW ID.3
VW ID.4
VS
Choosing between the VW ID.3 and VW ID.4 is really a question of priorities: the ID.3 trims the fat and fizzes through city streets with hatchback agility, while the ID.4 stretches out for SUV practicality and relaxed long-distance cruising. Pick the ID.3 if you crave compact punch and parking …
Kia EV3
VW ID.3
VS
Pitted against each other, the Kia EV3 feels like the roomy, no-nonsense upstart — taller, more practical and geared toward families who want SUV style without the fuel bill — while the VW ID.3 is the sharper, more polished hatch that rewards drivers who prefer nimble handling and mature software. …
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 …
VW ID.3
Skoda Elroq
VS
Line them up and the electric VW ID.3 comes off as the clever, zippy high-tech hatch you want for city runs and engaging driving, while the Skoda Elroq plays the straight man—roomy, practical and relentlessly sensible. Pick the ID.3 for zero‑emission fun and gadgetry; go for the Elroq if everyday …
Ford Puma
VW ID.3
VS
If you want a cheeky, petrol-powered crossover with nimble handling and clever storage, the Ford Puma punches above its class; if you prefer silent, techy electric motoring with a roomy, refined cabin, the VW ID.3 is the smarter, greener choice. Choose the Puma for personality and everyday …
Hyundai Kona
VW ID.3
VS
In the electrified showdown between the Hyundai Kona Electric and the Volkswagen ID.3, both cars bring distinct advantages to the table. The Kona Electric shines with its impressive range and affordability, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking long-distance …
VW ID.3
Toyota C-HR+
VS
The VW ID.3 and Toyota C-HR+ compete for the top spot in your garage. See how both models differ in key areas like performance, running costs, interior space and technology. A fast, clear comparison helps you pick the one that fits your needs best.
BYD Dolphin
VW ID.3

Costs and Consumption
Price
29,700 - 31,400 £
Price
28,600 - 49,300 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
15.9 kWh/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
14.5 - 15.8 kWh/100km
Electric Range
427 km
Electric Range
383 - 605 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
52 - 79 kWh
co2
0 g/km
co2
0 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1,658 kg
Curb weight
1,787 - 1,993 kg
Trunk capacity
345 L
Trunk capacity
385 L
Length
4,290 mm
Length
4,264 mm
Width
1,770 mm
Width
1,809 mm
Height
1,570 mm
Height
1,564 mm
Max trunk capacity
1,310 L
Max trunk capacity
1,267 L
Payload
410 kg
Payload
437 - 473 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 - 326 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.7 - 8.2 s
Max Speed
160 km/h
Max Speed
160 - 200 km/h
Torque
310 Nm
Torque
310 - 545 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
150 kW
Power kW
125 - 240 kW
Engine capacity
-
Engine capacity
-

General
Model Year
2023
Model Year
2,024 - 2,025
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
BYD
Brand
VW
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.