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VW ID.3 vs BYD Dolphin Surf comparison

Compare performance (231 HP vs 156 HP), boot space and price (29,100 £ vs 19,700 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – VW ID.3 or BYD Dolphin Surf?

VW ID.3 vs BYD Dolphin Surf: Key differences

VW ID.3

4.8 (6 Reviews)
rate
  • markedly more power
  • a bit more efficient
  • substantially more electric range
  • clearly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • moderately more trunk space
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BYD Dolphin Surf

4.4 (1 Reviews)
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  • clearly cheaper
  • considerably 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

ID.3

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

BYD Dolphin Surf is clearly cheaper – starting at 19,700 £ , while the VW ID.3 costs 29,100 £ . That’s a price difference of around 9,433 £.

In terms of energy consumption, the VW ID.3 is a bit more efficient: consuming 13.9 kWh/100km compared to 15.5 kWh/100km for the BYD Dolphin Surf. That’s a difference of about 1.6 kWh/100km.

As for electric range, the VW ID.3 offers substantially more range – reaching up to 629 km, about 307 km more than the BYD Dolphin Surf.

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 VW ID.3 offers markedly more power – delivering 231 HP compared to 156 HP. That’s roughly 75 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW ID.3 is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 7.1 s, while the BYD Dolphin Surf takes 9.1 s. That’s about 2 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the VW ID.3 delivers markedly more torque with 350 Nm compared to 220 Nm. That’s about 130 Nm more.

ID.3

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: VW ID.3 offers more seats – 5 vs 4.

In terms of curb weight, BYD Dolphin Surf is considerably lighter – 1,294 kg compared to 1,885 kg. The difference is around 591 kg.

Looking at boot space, the VW ID.3 offers moderately more boot space – 383 L compared to 308 L. That’s a difference of about 75 L.

When it comes to payload, the VW ID.3 carries visibly more – 464 kg compared to 344 kg. That’s a difference of about 120 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The VW ID.3 stands well ahead of its rival 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 £29,100
ID.3

VW ID.3

  • Engine Type Electric
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Drive Type Rear-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 170 - 231 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km 13.9 - 14.4 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range 410 - 629 km
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Frequently compared as well

BYD Dolphin
BYD Dolphin Surf
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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 …
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VW ID.3
BYD Dolphin Surf

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

VW ID.3

The VW ID.3 is Volkswagen’s compact electric hatch that prioritizes practical daily usability with a comfortable, modern interior. It delivers a smooth, quiet driving experience and intuitive tech that makes switching to electric straightforward.

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Reviews VW ID.3

4.8 (6 Reviews)
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Pennings
6 May 2026, 08:03:27

ID.3 catches less wind. It's more pleasant, especially on the highway. Also: more economical, lighter and with the same step‑in height.

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
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 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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Reviews BYD Dolphin Surf

4.4 (1 Reviews)
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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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VW ID.3
BYD Dolphin Surf

Costs and Consumption
Price
29,100 - 40,800 £
Price
19,700 - 26,600 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
13.9 - 14.4 kWh/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
15.5 - 16 kWh/100km
Electric Range
410 - 629 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
Hatchback
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
4
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,885 - 1,966 kg
Curb weight
1,294 - 1,390 kg
Trunk capacity
383 L
Trunk capacity
308 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,809 mm
Width
1,720 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
422 - 464 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
Rear-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
170 - 231 HP
Power HP
88 - 156 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.1 - 8 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.1 - 12.1 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
350 Nm
Torque
175 - 220 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
125 - 170 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
VW
Brand
BYD
What drivetrain options does the VW ID.3 have?

The VW ID.3 is offered with Rear-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.