Chinese automaker BYD is expanding its presence in the UK supermini segment with the introduction of the Dolphin G DM-i, a plug-in hybrid model designed to fill a distinct niche in a market traditionally dominated by petrol, hybrid, and pure-electric vehicles. This marks the first plug-in hybrid supermini available in the UK, complementing BYD’s existing all-electric Dolphin range.

The Dolphin G DM-i pairs a 94bhp 1.5-liter petrol engine with a 161bhp electric motor powering the front wheels. The petrol engine primarily functions as a generator for the electric motor. Buyers can choose between two battery options: a 7.4kWh pack in the entry-level Active trim and an 18.3kWh pack in higher-spec models. According to BYD, the smaller battery allows for an electric-only driving range of about 25 miles, while the larger pack extends this to approximately 65 miles. Combined petrol and electric range reaches up to 646 miles on the bigger battery, slightly less with the smaller pack.

Charging capabilities vary between the battery sizes. The smaller battery supports an AC charging rate up to 3.3kW, while the larger battery can handle up to 6.6kW AC and features a maximum DC fast-charge rate of 39kW. Additionally, Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology enables the car to supply power to external electrical devices.

On the road, the Dolphin G DM-i impresses with its quiet operation and brisk acceleration, thanks to its electric motor output. Engine noise remains subdued during typical driving but becomes more noticeable under heavy acceleration. The car’s light steering and overall handling are tailored for urban environments, offering ease of maneuverability. Fuel efficiency tests show it achieving close to 50 miles per gallon, aligning with economy expectations. However, driver engagement suffers somewhat due to light steering feedback and the presence of intrusive driver assistance systems, making rivals such as the Renault Clio and Toyota Yaris potentially more appealing for those prioritizing driving dynamics.

Visually, the Dolphin G DM-i presents a conventional and understated design, marked by simple styling elements and available in bold colors like the standard Orange Sunset pearlescent. Its appearance diverges noticeably from other models in the Dolphin lineup.

Inside, the interior adheres to BYD’s current design language, featuring a mix of solidly constructed materials with some lower-quality plastics, particularly on upper door panels and dashboard sections. The cabin centers around touchscreen controls—ranging from 10.1 inches in the base model to 12.8 inches in higher trims—alongside physical buttons on the steering wheel and center console. Rear seating is cramped with limited headroom, though cargo capacity is generous at 425 liters, expanding to 1,225 liters with rear seats folded.

The Dolphin G DM-i is offered in four trim levels, starting with the Active at £23,990, which includes 16-inch alloy wheels, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a digital key system. The Boost trim (£26,990) adds the larger battery, a bigger touchscreen, vegan leather upholstery, heated front seats, split-folding rear seats, wireless phone charging, and V2L functionality. Comfort (£28,490) upgrades to an 18-inch wheelset, head-up display, Google integration, and a panoramic roof. The flagship Sport model (£29,940) adds black alloy wheels, artificial suede upholstery, and interior highlights in blue or orange.

BYD’s Dolphin G DM-i seeks to differentiate itself with plug-in hybrid technology in a competitive small car market. While it offers efficient running costs and innovative features, its market success will depend on consumer appetite for plug-in hybrid superminis amid a growing preference for pure electric vehicles.