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BYD Dolphin vs VW ID.3 comparison

Compare performance (204 HP vs 326 HP), boot space and price (29700 £ vs 28600 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – BYD Dolphin or VW ID.3?

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.

BYD Dolphin vs VW ID.3: Key differences

BYD Dolphin

3.7 (3 Reviews)
rate
  • slight lighter

VW ID.3

4.9 (3 Reviews)
rate
  • minimal cheaper
  • evident more power
  • barely noticeable more efficient
  • evident more electric range
  • noticeable quicker from 0–100 km/h
  • to a small extent more trunk space

All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

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

Costs and Efficiency:

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

VW ID.3 has a minimal advantage in terms of price – it starts at 28600 £ , while the BYD Dolphin costs 29700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 1123 £.

In terms of energy consumption, the advantage goes to the VW ID.3: with 14.50 kWh per 100 km, it’s barely noticeable more efficient than the BYD Dolphin with 15.90 kWh. That’s a difference of about 1.40 kWh.

As for electric range, the VW ID.3 performs evident better – achieving up to 605 km, about 178 km more than the BYD Dolphin.

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 has a evident edge – offering 326 HP compared to 204 HP. That’s roughly 122 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW ID.3 is noticeable quicker – completing the sprint in 5.70 s, while the BYD Dolphin takes 7 s. That’s about 1.30 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the VW ID.3 performs somewhat better – 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: VW ID.3 pulls clearly stronger with 545 Nm compared to 310 Nm. That’s about 235 Nm difference.

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 curb weight, BYD Dolphin is slight lighter – 1658 kg compared to 1787 kg. The difference is around 129 kg.

In terms of boot space, the VW ID.3 offers to a small extent more room – 385 L compared to 345 L. That’s a difference of about 40 L.

In maximum load capacity, the BYD Dolphin performs hardly perceptible better – up to 1310 L, which is about 43 L more than the VW ID.3.

When it comes to payload, VW ID.3 slightly takes the win – 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.

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 …
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
VW ID.3

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis
from about £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
  • Electric Range : 383 - 605 km
details

BYD Dolphin

3.7 (3 Reviews)
rate

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

VW ID.3

4.9 (3 Reviews)
rate

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 BYD Dolphin

3.7 (3 Reviews)
rate
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

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
BYD Dolphin
VW ID.3

Costs and Consumption
Price
29700 - 31400 £
Price
28600 - 49300 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
15.90 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
14.5 - 15.8 kWh
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
1658 kg
Curb weight
1787 - 1993 kg
Trunk capacity
345 L
Trunk capacity
385 L
Length
4290 mm
Length
4264 mm
Width
1770 mm
Width
1809 mm
Height
1570 mm
Height
1564 mm
Max trunk capacity
1310 L
Max trunk capacity
1267 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
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
BYD
Brand
VW

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What drivetrain options does the BYD Dolphin have?

The BYD Dolphin is offered with Front-Wheel Drive.

The prices shown are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted for local VAT. Local registration taxes (e.g. NoVA, BPM or CO2 malus) are not included. This information is not legally binding.