Byd expands the Atto2 range with new plug-in hybrid versions

This compact suv is 4.3 metres long (20 centimetres longer than the electric version), 1.8 metres wide, 1.7 metres high and has a wheelbase of 2.6 metres, which allows for a fair amount of space inside, both at the front and at the rear, also thanks to the absence of a central tunnel: in fact, traction is entirely front wheel drive.

Le nuove versioni del sul compatto elettrico BYD Atto2, il top di gamma Comfort (a sinistra) e l’ibrida plug-in DM-i (a destra)

The front end adopts full LED headlights and subtle daytime running lights, while the bumper with sharp lines and vertical air intakes is designed to improve aerodynamic efficiency. The sides are sculpted, with retractable door handles and black pillars giving a 'floating' roof feel, while the rear features a small spoiler at the top and knot-shaped headlamps joined by a horizontal light line. It can be recognised from the 100 per cent electric version only by a few details: the lower grille in the larger front bumper shield, the petrol tank cover on the left rear mudguard in addition to the charging socket on the right front mudguard and the DM-i lettering on the tailgate.

The interior is well cared for, with quality materials and an essential supply of physical buttons, as has become customary in Chinese cars: controls are via the 12.8-inch infotainment display (for the first time it does not rotate 90°). Well defined, it displays a proprietary system that is rather complex in the management of all possible options but fortunately, thanks to an agreement with Google, directly supports apps from the Store and Apple Carplay and Android Auto solutions.

In front of the driver is a second 8.8-inch display, but it is far too packed with information, displaying driving, adas, infotainment and range information so that it is difficult to focus on what really matters.

There is no shortage of goodies such as the double-height bridge, the 15 W wireless charging cradle, the touch control of the panoramic roof cover and the glasses holder fixed above the driver's door. There is also an rfid sensor on the outside rear-view mirror for opening doors via smartphone or key-card. While this is a technologically impressive option, it could perhaps have been placed in a spot less prone to knocks.

The Boost version also supports the Vehicle-to-Load function that allows powering external devices (such as refrigerators and camping equipment) up to 3.3 kW.

The adas equipment is good, with adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, blind spot detection, lane keeping and traffic sign recognition all standard on all versions.

The ride is pleasant and fluid, with an extremely quiet cabin, a brilliant powertrain despite the fact that the power involved is not extremely high, precise steering and well-tuned suspension (something rare on cars made in China), while the brakes could be improved. There are four driving modes available (Eco, Normal, Sport and Snow, where there is little grip) and two levels of energy recovery under braking. There are no paddles behind the steering wheel, so it is necessary to use the central screen to make the choice.

The new Atto2 DM-i Boost is already available online (first deliveries beginning 2026), with a list price of EUR 29,800. The DM-i Active version will be available later.

With a larger battery, an extended range and even more equipment, the Atto 2 Comfort is at the top of the range of 100 per cent electric versions (Active and Boost versions have already been available since the beginning of the year).

Aesthetics and dimensions remain unchanged: 4,310 mm in length, 1,830 mm in width, 1,675 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,620 mm to maximise interior space.

Despite this, boot capacity gains 50 litres to 450 and 1,370 litres respectively with the rear seats in place or folded down (60-40%).

Although engine power is 150 kW, i.e. 20 kW more than the versions already on the market, the 64.8 kWh battery brings the range up to 430 km (WLTP combined). Acceleration 0-100 km/h and top speed are the same for all versions, at 7.9 seconds and 160 km/h respectively, while maximum torque is increased by 20 Nm (from 290 Nm to 310 Nm) to the benefit of brilliance in driving response.

The maximum recharging power supported also increases: the 155 kW enables a 10 to 80 per cent charge in 25 minutes. Safety equipment includes seven airbags, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, fatigue monitoring and automatic emergency braking. There is also Vehicle-to-Load technology that allows external devices to be powered up to 3.3 kW.

The ride is rather brilliant, with good cabin soundproofing and better ergonomics than many Chinese competitors, although the driving position remains surprisingly low. The suspension suffers a little from the weight of the battery, although Byd has opted for a multi-link solution at the rear, but the steering is nevertheless precise.

The Atto2 Comfort is already available online with a list price of 33,200 euro.