VS

MG MG4 Urban vs BYD Dolphin comparison

Compare performance (160 HP vs 204 HP), boot space and price (21,400 £ vs 29,700 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – MG MG4 Urban or BYD Dolphin?

MG MG4 Urban vs BYD Dolphin: Key differences

MG MG4 Urban

4.9 (2 Reviews)
rate
  • noticeably cheaper
  • very slightly more efficient
  • a bit lighter
  • visibly more trunk space
details

BYD Dolphin

4 (4 Reviews)
rate
  • visibly more power
  • barely more electric range
  • noticeably quicker 0–100 km/h
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

MG4 Urban

Quick take: BYD Dolphin VS MG MG4 Urban

BYD Dolphin VS MG MG4 Urban puts a well‑equipped, comfort‑biased hatch against a value‑packed, space‑first rival. The BYD Dolphin leans into tech and a soft, easy city ride while the MG MG4 Urban prioritises cargo room, rear legroom and the lowest entry price. Both are pragmatic electric hatchbacks aimed at everyday buyers, but they approach that brief from different angles: BYD sells convenience and kit, MG sells usable volume and economy. If you want lots of standard features and a relaxed urban cruiser, BYD stands out; if you need the biggest boot and a firmer price‑for‑space deal, the MG is more convincing.

Dolphin

Driving character and highway manners

The BYD Dolphin feels livelier off the line and delivers a more relaxed, cushioned ride around town, but that softness translates into more body roll and an unsettled feel at higher speeds. The MG MG4 Urban is the steadier companion on straighter roads—more planted and predictable, with a firmer suspension that sacrifices a little urban plushness for composure. BYD’s gentler setup makes it a nicer city shuttle but invites more steering corrections on fast lanes, whereas MG’s tauter calibration is less coddling yet more confidence‑inspiring at motorway paces. If you favour pep and comfort in daily traffic pick BYD Dolphin; if you prefer a stable, unflappable carriage on longer stretches opt for the MG MG4 Urban.

Comfort, noise and long‑distance usability

For short hops and school runs the BYD Dolphin’s softer springs hide bumps and make progress relaxed, while its cabin tuning keeps low‑speed noise in check. The MG MG4 Urban tends to be firmer and a bit more vocal over coarse tarmac and at higher speeds, so long motorway runs feel more work in the MG unless you prioritise its stability. Neither car is a long‑haul specialist: both will do acceptable daily ranges but both need realistic expectations for fast‑charging pauses on long trips, which can lengthen travel time. Choose BYD Dolphin for cosseted city-to-commute comfort and MG MG4 Urban if you want steadiness and a luggage advantage on family getaways.

Practicality and everyday usability

The MG MG4 Urban clearly wins on luggage and modular storage: a very large boot and underfloor space make it easier to pack for holidays and bulky shopping runs. The BYD Dolphin, in contrast, surprises with exceptional rear passenger accommodation and an unusually generous second row that can tip the scales for families who prioritise back‑seat comfort. MG’s lower starting price, generous warranty and big boot are persuasive for cost‑conscious buyers who need cargo-first practicality, while BYD’s 360° camera, V2L and extra ISOFIX flexibility make daily life simpler for parents and tech‑pragmatists. The trade‑off is simple: choose the MG for haulage and value, choose the BYD for passenger comfort and convenience features.

Cabin feel, controls and perceived quality

The BYD Dolphin’s interior is more playful and gadget‑heavy, with lots of tech turned on by default but fewer physical controls, so you trade tactile immediacy for a richer spec sheet. The MG MG4 Urban feels more utilitarian: sober styling, more physical knobs and a simpler menu flow that some will find easier to live with, even if many surfaces are hard plastic. BYD’s layout can feel fussy in day‑to‑day operation, whereas MG’s approach is functional and fast to use, which matters in cold mornings or quick errands. If you value a techy cabin and bundled features, BYD Dolphin wins on perceived bang‑for‑buck; if you want straightforward ergonomics and orthodox controls, MG MG4 Urban is the calmer choice.

Buyer fit — who should consider each car?

If your priority is rear‑seat comfort, lots of standard kit and a soft, city‑friendly ride, the BYD Dolphin suits families and tech‑minded commuters who prefer convenience over sporty driver feel. If you need the maximum boot, the lowest outlay for interior space and a straightforward, economical daily tool with a long warranty, the MG MG4 Urban is the better match. Both have compromises for long motorway runs and fast‑charging expectations, so buyers who regularly tackle very long distances should weigh charging behaviour carefully. Read on to the technical comparison to see how those practical differences map to power, weight, range and charging behaviour for a final decision tailored to your priorities.

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 Atto 2
MG MG4 Urban
VS
The BYD Atto 2 and the MG4 Urban are two popular compact EVs offering distinctive approaches to styling, range and value. This comparison will help you decide whether the Atto 2’s roomy, comfort-focused cabin and clever tech or the MG4 Urban’s sharper driving dynamics and hatchback practicality …

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

MG4 Urban

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

MG MG4 Urban is noticeably cheaper – starting at 21,400 £ , while the BYD Dolphin costs 29,700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 8,271 £.

In terms of energy consumption, the MG MG4 Urban is very slightly more efficient: consuming 15.3 kWh/100km compared to 15.9 kWh/100km for the BYD Dolphin. That’s a difference of about 0.6 kWh/100km.

As for electric range, the BYD Dolphin offers barely more range – reaching up to 427 km, about 11 km more than the MG MG4 Urban.

Dolphin

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the BYD Dolphin offers visibly more power – delivering 204 HP compared to 160 HP. That’s roughly 44 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the BYD Dolphin is noticeably quicker – completing the sprint in 7 s, while the MG MG4 Urban takes 9.5 s. That’s about 2.5 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the BYD Dolphin delivers somewhat more torque with 310 Nm compared to 250 Nm. That’s about 60 Nm more.

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, MG MG4 Urban is a bit lighter – 1,460 kg compared to 1,658 kg. The difference is around 198 kg.

Looking at boot space, the MG MG4 Urban offers visibly more boot space – 479 L compared to 345 L. That’s a difference of about 134 L.

When it comes to payload, the MG MG4 Urban carries barely more – 450 kg compared to 410 kg. That’s a difference of about 40 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The BYD Dolphin sits just ahead 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 £29,700
Dolphin

BYD Dolphin

  • Engine Type Electric
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 204 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km 15.9 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range 427 km
details
MG MG4 Urban
BYD Dolphin

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

MG MG4 Urban

The MG4 Urban is an affordable, well‑packaged electric hatchback that balances everyday practicality with a surprisingly roomy cabin and confident handling. It’s a smart choice if you want an easy-to-live-with EV that focuses on value and usable range rather than luxury frills.

details
serpimg_CBSFoT

Reviews MG MG4 Urban

4.9 (2 Reviews)
rate
BobbyDazzler
4 Jun 2026, 14:01:59

A fine car which is great value for money. Getting over 5 m/Kwh and the acceleration is brisk. Ride is smooth and inner space exceptional. In good weather you will probably get the claimed 251 miles range

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

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
E3343F48-6402-43F6-BA2F-1FB1F8EFCE7F
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

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 …
MG MG4 Urban
Leapmotor B05
VS
Here’s a clear, practical comparison between the MG4 Urban and the Leapmotor B05 to help you decide which compact electric hatchback suits your needs. I’ll focus on real-world factors—range, driving dynamics, interior space, tech and value—so you can pick the better fit for your daily life.
BYD Dolphin Surf
MG MG4 Urban
VS
The BYD Dolphin Surf and the MG4 Urban are compact electric hatchbacks that target buyers who want a practical, tech-rich EV without blowing the budget. This comparison focuses on range, performance, interior space, and value to help you pick the better fit for daily driving and city life.
MG MGS5 EV
MG MG4 Urban
VS
Comparing the MG5 EV and the MG4 Urban highlights two different approaches to affordable electrification: the MG5 EV is a practical, estate-style electric focused on cargo space and value, while the MG4 Urban is a compact, more dynamic hatchback with sharper handling and a modern interior. Choose …
MG MG4
MG MG4 Urban
VS
Choosing between the MG4 and the MG4 Urban comes down to whether you want the standard hatch’s broader range and performance or the Urban’s city-focused features and styling. I’ll highlight the key differences in range, equipment, ride and price so you can pick the MG4 that best matches your daily …
MG MG4 Urban
Leapmotor B10
VS
Here’s a focused comparison of the MG4 Urban and the Leapmotor B10 to help you decide which electric model suits your needs better. I’ll cover range, practicality, driving feel, technology and ownership costs so you can pick between MG’s Europe-styled hatchback and Leapmotor’s tech-forward compact …
BYD Dolphin
VW ID.3
VS
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, …
Kia EV2
MG MG4 Urban
VS
The Kia EV2 and the MG4 Urban are compact electric hatchbacks that appeal to buyers seeking affordable EV range, practical interiors and everyday usability. Kia focuses on refinement, comfort and a broad dealer network, while the MG4 Urban offers sharper handling, bolder styling and excellent value …
MG MG4 Urban
BYD Dolphin

Costs and Consumption
Price
21,400 - 27,000 £
Price
29,700 - 31,400 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
15.3 - 15.5 kWh/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
15.9 kWh/100km
Electric Range
325 - 416 km
Electric Range
427 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
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
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,460 - 1,520 kg
Curb weight
1,658 kg
Trunk capacity
470 - 479 L
Trunk capacity
345 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,842 mm
Width
1,770 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
450 kg
Payload
410 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
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
150 - 160 HP
Power HP
204 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.5 - 9.6 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
250 Nm
Torque
310 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
110 - 118 kW
Power kW
150 kW
Engine capacity
-
Engine capacity
-

General
Model Year
2026
Model Year
2023
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
MG
Brand
BYD
Is the MG MG4 Urban offered with different drivetrains?

The MG MG4 Urban is offered with 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.