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Mazda 3 Hatchback vs BYD Dolphin Surf comparison

Compare performance (186 HP vs 156 HP), boot space and price (25,000 £ vs 19,700 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Mazda 3 Hatchback or BYD Dolphin Surf?

Mazda 3 Hatchback vs BYD Dolphin Surf: Key differences

Mazda 3 Hatchback

5 (1 Reviews)
rate
  • slightly more power
  • somewhat quicker 0–100 km/h
  • moderately more trunk space
details

BYD Dolphin Surf

4.4 (1 Reviews)
rate
  • noticeably cheaper
  • very slightly 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

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

3 Hatchback

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.

BYD Dolphin Surf is noticeably cheaper – starting at 19,700 £ , while the Mazda 3 Hatchback costs 25,000 £ . That’s a price difference of around 5,315 £.

Dolphin Surf

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 Mazda 3 Hatchback offers slightly more power – delivering 186 HP compared to 156 HP. That’s roughly 30 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mazda 3 Hatchback is somewhat quicker – completing the sprint in 8 s, while the BYD Dolphin Surf takes 9.1 s. That’s about 1.1 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Mazda 3 Hatchback delivers only slightly more torque with 240 Nm compared to 220 Nm. That’s about 20 Nm more.

3 Hatchback

Space and Everyday Use:

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

Seats: Mazda 3 Hatchback offers more seats – 5 vs 4.

In terms of curb weight, BYD Dolphin Surf is very slightly lighter – 1,294 kg compared to 1,417 kg. The difference is around 123 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Mazda 3 Hatchback offers moderately more boot space – 351 L compared to 308 L. That’s a difference of about 43 L.

When it comes to payload, the Mazda 3 Hatchback carries noticeably more – 502 kg compared to 344 kg. That’s a difference of about 158 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The BYD Dolphin Surf is barely 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 £19,700
Dolphin Surf

BYD Dolphin Surf

  • Engine Type Electric
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 88 - 156 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km 15.5 - 16 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range 220 - 322 km
details

Frequently compared as well

BYD Dolphin Surf
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BYD Dolphin Surf
Renault Twingo
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We pit the cheeky BYD Dolphin Surf against the compact Renault Twingo to find out which small car deserves your city-driving crown. The Dolphin Surf brings electric refinement and modern tech to the party, while the Twingo trades on nimble handling and fuss-free simplicity — your choice depends on …
Mazda 3 Hatchback
BYD Dolphin Surf

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

Mazda 3 Hatchback

The Mazda 3 hatchback blends elegant design with a surprisingly sporty drive, giving a cabin that feels more upscale than you’d expect for the segment. Practical enough for everyday life yet eager to entertain behind the wheel, it’s a smart, good-humored choice that makes even grocery runs feel like a mini escape.

details
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2022_mazda3_spain_act_15_highres
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2022_mazda3_pq_spain_int_05_highres

Reviews Mazda 3 Hatchback

5 (1 Reviews)
rate
j m
29 Jun 2026, 22:06:55

power
efficiency and low consumption
driving pleasure
wonderful e-drive and head-up projection display on the windshield

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.

details
BYD_Dolphin_Surf__154--2-_UK05BYD
BYD_Dolphin_Surf__251_UK05BYD
BYD_Dolphin_Surf__205-1
BYD_Dolphin_Surf__195

Reviews BYD Dolphin Surf

4.4 (1 Reviews)
rate
Dieter Schönrock
9 Jun 2026, 07:04:54

The Dolphin Surf is especially appealing because of the entry height and the low step-in. The amount of space is very good. It's a pity it has no towing capacity — around 500–600 kg would be great. The Dolphin Surf is better suited for older people than the R5.

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

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VS
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Here’s a focused comparison between the BYD Dolphin Surf and the Kia EV2 — two compact electric hatchbacks aimed at urban drivers who want low running costs and practical daily usability. The Dolphin Surf tends to offer a tech‑rich, efficient package and strong value, while the EV2 emphasizes …
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Renault R5
BYD Dolphin Surf
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Mazda 3 Hatchback
BYD Dolphin Surf

Costs and Consumption
Price
25,000 - 36,000 £
Price
19,700 - 26,600 £
Consumption L/100km
5.6 - 6.5 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
15.5 - 16 kWh/100km
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
220 - 322 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
126 - 146 g/km
co2
0 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
4
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,417 - 1,529 kg
Curb weight
1,294 - 1,390 kg
Trunk capacity
351 L
Trunk capacity
308 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,795 mm
Width
1,720 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
487 - 502 kg
Payload
344 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV
Engine Type
Electric
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
140 - 186 HP
Power HP
88 - 156 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8 - 9.8 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.1 - 12.1 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
238 - 240 Nm
Torque
175 - 220 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
103 - 137 kW
Power kW
65 - 115 kW
Engine capacity
1,998 - 2,488 cm3
Engine capacity
-

General
Model Year
2026
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
Mazda
Brand
BYD
What drive types are available for the Mazda 3 Hatchback?

Available configurations include Front-Wheel Drive or 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.