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VW ID.4 vs BYD Dolphin Surf comparison

Compare performance (299 HP vs 156 HP), boot space and price (34,800 £ vs 19,700 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – VW ID.4 or BYD Dolphin Surf?

VW ID.4 vs BYD Dolphin Surf: Key differences

VW ID.4

4.4 (10 Reviews)
rate
  • clearly more power
  • very slightly more efficient
  • significantly more electric range
  • significantly quicker 0–100 km/h
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BYD Dolphin Surf

4.4 (1 Reviews)
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  • significantly cheaper
  • 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

ID.4

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 significantly cheaper – starting at 19,700 £ , while the VW ID.4 costs 34,800 £ . That’s a price difference of around 15,077 £.

In terms of energy consumption, the VW ID.4 is very slightly more efficient: consuming 15.4 kWh/100km compared to 15.5 kWh/100km for the BYD Dolphin Surf. That’s a difference of about 0.1 kWh/100km.

As for electric range, the VW ID.4 offers significantly more range – reaching up to 570 km, about 248 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.4 offers clearly more power – delivering 299 HP compared to 156 HP. That’s roughly 143 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW ID.4 is significantly quicker – completing the sprint in 6.1 s, while the BYD Dolphin Surf takes 9.1 s. That’s about 3 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the VW ID.4 delivers clearly more torque with 545 Nm compared to 220 Nm. That’s about 325 Nm more.

ID.4

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: VW ID.4 offers more seats – 5 vs 4.

In terms of curb weight, BYD Dolphin Surf is substantially lighter – 1,294 kg compared to 2,065 kg. The difference is around 771 kg.

When it comes to payload, the VW ID.4 carries markedly more – 554 kg compared to 344 kg. That’s a difference of about 210 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The VW ID.4 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 £34,800
ID.4

VW ID.4

  • Engine Type Electric
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Drive Type Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 190 - 299 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km 15.4 - 16.6 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range 425 - 570 km
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Frequently compared as well

VW ID.4
Skoda Elroq
VS
In the battle of electric SUVs, the VW ID.4 and Skoda Enyaq offer distinctive features that cater to different preferences. The ID.4 boasts a more refined interior and advanced tech options, while the Enyaq shines with its spaciousness and practicality. Ultimately, the choice between these two …
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.
VW ID.4
BYD Dolphin Surf

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

VW ID.4

The VW ID.4 is a practical, family-friendly electric SUV that balances everyday usability with a calm, composed driving character. It pairs a roomy, well-finished cabin and easy-to-use tech with predictable handling and convenient charging options, making it a sensible choice for buyers switching to electric.

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Reviews VW ID.4

4.4 (10 Reviews)
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Figge
28 May 2026, 11:16:12

The electric drivetrain pays off, especially in turbulent times like these. EVs have left their teething problems behind and now also offer good 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
Jan Hansen
10 Apr 2026, 21:40:06

It's a technologically advanced car, but somewhere along the way VW forgot the pleasant cabin and the comfortable ride. It IS a VW — and that redeems 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
Achim
7 Apr 2026, 15:55:42

The ID.4 is a bit pricey, but very pleasant to drive. Its winter range could be better — then again, that's a problem all EVs are facing right now.

Tore
1 Mar 2026, 23:15:24

An ID.4 with 340 hp is not comparable to the Aiways U5! The U5 only has 204 hp! The ID.4’s boot is too small, rear legroom is too tight, no frunk, and it’s a bit confusing…

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Company car / Business
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Kenneth Kjeldsen
13 Dec 2025, 11:57:52

I have an ID.4 GTX and it drives like a dream — loads of extra power, sits well on the road, high seating position, quiet. I can see other cars have bigger screens, but mine works fine.

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

Frequently compared as well

BYD Dolphin Surf
Renault Twingo
VS
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 …
VW ID.3
VW ID.4
VS
Choosing between the VW ID.3 and the VW ID.4 means deciding between a compact hatchback-style electric built for city driving and a roomier compact SUV that prioritizes cargo space and versatility. I’ll compare range, practicality, driving feel and running costs so you can see which one suits your …
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 …
Hyundai Inster
BYD Dolphin Surf
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The Hyundai Inster and the BYD Dolphin Surf are two fresh contenders in the compact car segment, each taking a different approach to styling, technology and everyday practicality. This comparison will highlight the key differences in comfort, efficiency, driving feel and value so you can pick the …
VW ID.4
VW ID.5
VS
The Volkswagen ID.4 and ID.5 share the same electric underpinnings but target different tastes: the ID.4 is a practical compact SUV, while the ID.5 wears a sleeker, coupé-like profile for a more stylish look. This comparison will help you choose between everyday practicality and interior space …
BYD Dolphin Surf
Leapmotor T03
VS
The BYD Dolphin Surf and Leapmotor T03 are compact electric city cars that compete on price, practicality and range but take different approaches: the Dolphin Surf leans toward longer range, more interior space and richer features, while the T03 focuses on ultra-affordability, low running costs and …
BMW iX1
VW ID.4
VS
The BMW iX1 and VW ID.4 represent two distinct approaches to the compact electric SUV: the iX1 focuses on premium feel and engaging driving dynamics, while the VW ID.4 prioritizes space, simplicity, and everyday practicality. This comparison will help you decide whether you value sportier handling …
Ford Explorer EV
VW ID.4
VS
The Ford Explorer EV brings American swagger to the MEB party with punchy performance and a clever sliding 14.6-inch screen, while the VW ID.4 counters with calm refinement, strong efficiency, and a well-proven ownership experience. Want character and kit for the money? Go Explorer; crave serenity …
VW ID.4
BYD Dolphin Surf

Costs and Consumption
Price
34,800 - 47,600 £
Price
19,700 - 26,600 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
15.4 - 16.6 kWh/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
15.5 - 16 kWh/100km
Electric Range
425 - 570 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
2,065 - 2,219 kg
Curb weight
1,294 - 1,390 kg
Trunk capacity
-
Trunk capacity
308 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,852 mm
Width
1,720 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
525 - 554 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, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
190 - 299 HP
Power HP
88 - 156 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.1 - 8.5 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.1 - 12.1 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
310 - 545 Nm
Torque
175 - 220 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
140 - 220 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 drive types are available for the VW ID.4?

Available configurations include Rear-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.