BYD Dolphin Price: What It Costs and What You Get
The Dolphin is BYD's small electric hatchback and often the cheapest way into a BYD in markets like Australia. Don't confuse it with the Dolphin Surf, a smaller and cheaper car sold in the UK and Europe. Here is what the Dolphin costs and what to check.
| Market | Starting price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia | from A$29,990 | Essential, before on-road costs (A$28,888 drive-away on orders to 15 Dec 2026); Premium A$36,990 |
| United Kingdom | from about £26,000 | On the road; trims vary |
| China | from about $11,000–16,000 | Domestic price range |
Indicative starting prices, September 2026. Prices change often — confirm with an official BYD dealer.
Dolphin vs Dolphin Surf
The Dolphin is a compact hatchback with a Blade battery and a comfortable, well-equipped cabin. The Dolphin Surf is a different, smaller car — the European version of the Seagull — and costs less. If you want the cheapest BYD in the UK, look at the Dolphin Surf; if you want more space and range, the Dolphin.
What drives the price
Battery size and trim make the biggest difference, followed by local taxes and incentives. In Australia the Dolphin is BYD's entry model, which makes it one of the cheaper new EVs on sale there.
Buying a used Dolphin
Used Dolphins are increasingly common. Check the VIN to confirm the battery size and build year, look for open recalls, and ask for the service record and a battery health report before you agree a price.
BYD Dolphin warranty (UK and Australia)
A new Dolphin comes with BYD's standard cover in both markets: 6 years on the car and 8 years on the Blade battery and drive unit, with the battery guaranteed to keep at least 70% state of health. Only the distance limits differ. A used Dolphin keeps whatever is left of that cover, counted from its original delivery date — confirm the start date with a BYD dealer using the VIN. In the UK the smaller Dolphin Surf carries the same terms. A privately imported Dolphin is usually not covered by the local distributor.
| Cover | United Kingdom | Australia |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle | 6 years / 93,750 miles | 6 years / 150,000 km |
| Battery (min. 70% SOH) | 8 years / 155,000 miles (250,000 km) | 8 years / 160,000 km |
| Drive unit | 8 years / 93,750 miles | 8 years / 160,000 km |
New cars bought through the official BYD network, October 2026. A used car keeps the balance from its original delivery date.
FAQ
How much is a BYD Dolphin?
From A$29,990 (Essential) before on-road costs in Australia — or A$28,888 drive-away on orders placed by 15 December 2026 — and about £26,000 in the UK. In China it is roughly $11,000–16,000.
Is the BYD Dolphin worth buying?
For city driving and value-focused buyers, yes — it offers good range and equipment for the price with BYD's long warranty.
What are some common problems with the BYD Dolphin?
Owners mostly report software and infotainment niggles and sensitive driver-assist alerts, which updates often improve. Check recall status and service history on a used car.
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