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MG ZS vs BYD Dolphin Surf comparison

Compare performance (197 HP vs 156 HP), boot space and price (18,000 £ vs 19,700 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – MG ZS or BYD Dolphin Surf?

MG ZS vs BYD Dolphin Surf: Key differences

MG ZS

4.5 (5 Reviews)
rate
  • only slightly cheaper
  • visibly more power
  • very slightly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • markedly more trunk space
details

BYD Dolphin Surf

4.4 (1 Reviews)
rate
  • marginally 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

ZS

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.

MG ZS is only slightly cheaper – starting at 18,000 £ , while the BYD Dolphin Surf costs 19,700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 1,714 £.

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 MG ZS offers visibly more power – delivering 197 HP compared to 156 HP. That’s roughly 41 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the MG ZS is very slightly quicker – completing the sprint in 8.7 s, while the BYD Dolphin Surf takes 9.1 s. That’s about 0.4 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the BYD Dolphin Surf delivers markedly more torque with 220 Nm compared to 148 Nm. That’s about 72 Nm more.

ZS

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: MG ZS offers more seats – 5 vs 4.

In terms of curb weight, BYD Dolphin Surf is marginally lighter – 1,294 kg compared to 1,330 kg. The difference is around 36 kg.

Looking at boot space, the MG ZS offers markedly more boot space – 443 L compared to 308 L. That’s a difference of about 135 L.

When it comes to payload, the MG ZS carries visibly more – 470 kg compared to 344 kg. That’s a difference of about 126 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The BYD Dolphin Surf has only a minor advantage 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
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.
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 …
MG ZS
BYD Dolphin Surf

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

MG ZS

The MG ZS is a compact crossover that delivers strong value with a roomy cabin and straightforward tech, making it a sensible choice for budget-minded buyers. It’s easy to live with, offering comfortable rides and a practical layout that suits daily commutes and family errands.

details
MG-ZS-EV-dynamic
MG-ZS-EV-PRESS-07
MG-ZS-EV-PRESS-21
MG-ZS-EV-PRESS-luxury_interior
MG-ZS-EV-PRESS-16

Reviews MG ZS

4.5 (5 Reviews)
rate
Constantin
9 Jun 2026, 22:34:01

I replaced my Dacia Jogger with an MG ZS Hybrid and I don't regret it.

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
Ahmed
30 Sept 2025, 14:05:11

With all the features it offers at that price, the MG has no competition. A BMW X1 of similar dimensions with a few extra upgrades costs more than twice as much, and considering that 40% of MG’s spare parts come from Germany (Bosch, Continental, etc.), I’d go for the MG ZS Hybrid without a second thought.

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__251_UK05BYD
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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

Frequently compared as well

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Cheap and cheerful, the MG ZS punches above its price with a roomy, gadget-heavy cabin and surprisingly sprightly electric options, while the Nissan Qashqai feels more grown-up — quieter, better driven and tougher to fault on long motorway runs. Pick the ZS if you want maximum kit for your money; …
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MG ZS
BYD Dolphin Surf

Costs and Consumption
Price
18,000 - 24,000 £
Price
19,700 - 26,600 £
Consumption L/100km
5.1 - 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
115 - 145 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
1,330 - 1,420 kg
Curb weight
1,294 - 1,390 kg
Trunk capacity
443 L
Trunk capacity
308 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,818 mm
Width
1,720 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
375 - 470 kg
Payload
344 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol, Full Hybrid
Engine Type
Electric
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
116 - 197 HP
Power HP
88 - 156 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.7 - 12.5 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.1 - 12.1 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
148 Nm
Torque
175 - 220 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
85 - 145 kW
Power kW
65 - 115 kW
Engine capacity
1,495 - 1,498 cm3
Engine capacity
-

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, C
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
MG
Brand
BYD
What drive types are available for the MG ZS?

The MG ZS 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.