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Kia EV3 vs BYD Dolphin Surf comparison

Compare performance (265 HP vs 156 HP), boot space and price (40,200 £ vs 19,700 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Kia EV3 or BYD Dolphin Surf?

Kia EV3 vs BYD Dolphin Surf: Key differences

Kia EV3

4.6 (5 Reviews)
rate
  • significantly more power
  • considerably more electric range
  • visibly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • clearly more trunk space
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BYD Dolphin Surf

  • significantly cheaper
  • barely more efficient
  • substantially lighter
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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

EV3

Costs and Efficiency:

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

BYD Dolphin Surf is significantly cheaper – starting at 19,700 £ , while the Kia EV3 costs 40,200 £ . That’s a price difference of around 20,477 £.

In terms of energy consumption, the BYD Dolphin Surf is barely more efficient: consuming 15.5 kWh/100km compared to 15.8 kWh/100km for the Kia EV3. That’s a difference of about 0.3 kWh/100km.

As for electric range, the Kia EV3 offers considerably more range – reaching up to 572 km, about 250 km more than the BYD Dolphin Surf.

Dolphin Surf

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 Kia EV3 offers significantly more power – delivering 265 HP compared to 156 HP. That’s roughly 109 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Kia EV3 is visibly quicker – completing the sprint in 6.6 s, while the BYD Dolphin Surf takes 9.1 s. That’s about 2.5 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Kia EV3 delivers substantially more torque with 385 Nm compared to 220 Nm. That’s about 165 Nm more.

EV3

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.

Seats: Kia EV3 offers more seats – 5 vs 4.

In terms of curb weight, BYD Dolphin Surf is substantially lighter – 1,294 kg compared to 1,995 kg. The difference is around 701 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Kia EV3 offers clearly more boot space – 413 L compared to 308 L. That’s a difference of about 105 L.

When it comes to payload, the Kia EV3 carries visibly more – 485 kg compared to 344 kg. That’s a difference of about 141 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Kia EV3 is clearly superior 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 £40,200
EV3

Kia EV3

  • Engine Type : Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 265 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 15.8 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range : 572 km
details

Frequently compared as well

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Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

Kia EV3

The Kia EV3 is a stylish, user-friendly electric crossover that focuses on practicality and a roomy, well-equipped cabin. It delivers a comfortable ride with intuitive technology and efficient everyday performance, making it a sensible choice for city and family use.

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IMG_0232
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21485_Concept_EV3

Reviews Kia EV3

4.6 (5 Reviews)
rate
pedro
8 May 2026, 11:01:53

Aesthetically it seems nicer to me, and I think it's better soundproofed.

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
José
24 Dec 2025, 17:42:54

A good car for a small family. Easy and practical.

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

BYD Dolphin Surf

The BYD Dolphin Surf is an intriguing model that combines sleek design with modern electric technology, making it an appealing choice for urban commuters seeking sustainability and style. Its dynamic exterior design is complemented by an interior that prioritizes comfort and functionality, reflecting the brand's commitment to innovation. The model also offers impressive handling and a smooth driving experience, embodying the shift towards eco-friendly transportation.

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BYD_Dolphin_Surf__154--2-_UK05BYD
BYD_Dolphin_Surf__251_UK05BYD
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BYD_Dolphin_Surf__195

Reviews BYD Dolphin Surf

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

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Kia EV3
BYD Dolphin Surf

Costs and Consumption
Price
40,200 - 43,900 £
Price
19,700 - 26,600 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
15.8 kWh/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
15.5 - 16 kWh/100km
Electric Range
572 km
Electric Range
220 - 322 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 g/km
co2
0 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
4
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,995 kg
Curb weight
1,294 - 1,390 kg
Trunk capacity
413 L
Trunk capacity
308 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,850 mm
Width
1,720 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
485 kg
Payload
344 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Electric
Engine Type
Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
265 HP
Power HP
88 - 156 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.6 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.1 - 12.1 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
385 Nm
Torque
175 - 220 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
195 kW
Power kW
65 - 115 kW
Engine capacity
-
Engine capacity
-

General
Model Year
2026
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
Kia
Brand
BYD
What drivetrain options does the Kia EV3 have?

The Kia EV3 is available as All-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.