Used Byd Dolphin Surf for sale near Hornchurch

CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 0.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 26.4%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 3.7 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 50
Average Price: Around £18,000

BYD Dolphin Surf (2025) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Roomy interior for such a small car	Small, fiddly touchscreen
Long range for the price	Only four seats
Very generously equipped	Underwhelming charging speeds

Quick Summary

The BYD Dolphin Surf (2025) is a cheerful, small electric five-door hatchback designed to offer an affordable entry into the EV market. It goes head-to-head with rivals like the Renault 5 and Citroen e-C3, yet its entry-level price is comparable to smaller city car EVs such as the Dacia Spring. Aimed at trendy urbanites, its practicality and up to 200 miles of range also make it suitable for families or those needing an easy-to-drive small EV for occasional longer trips.

Available in three motor and battery combinations, the Dolphin Surf offers ranges from 137 to 200 miles, with charging times of around 30 minutes (10-80%). It provides a soft, comfortable ride over city bumps, though its handling is not as engaging as some rivals due to remote steering. Running costs are low, with excellent real-world efficiency and generous standard equipment including vegan leather, adaptive cruise control, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. While its rotating touchscreen can be fiddly, it represents tremendous value for money, especially the entry-level model, with competitive PCP deals and a lengthy warranty.

Best for: Drivers on a budget, those seeking a sensible, honest, and practical car for families or commuters, or anyone looking for a small EV that’s easy to drive and can take them further afield on the odd occasion. Buyers who prioritise generous equipment levels and a lengthy warranty.

Not ideal for: Buyers prioritising a premium user interface or seamless touchscreen experience, those who need a five-seater, or drivers seeking thrilling performance and sharp handling dynamics.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Corsa if: You're on a budget, seeking a sensible, honest, and practical car for families or commuters, or looking for an affordable hot hatch (VXR).

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise premium badge appeal, the finest handling, or require air conditioning as standard on all trims.

Competitive Position: The BYD Dolphin Surf is a strong contender in the affordable small EV market, offering significant value, generous equipment, and a roomy interior for its class. While it may not deliver the most engaging driving dynamics or a flawless user interface, its competitive pricing, low running costs, and decent range make it a highly sensible choice for budget-conscious buyers and urban families looking for an easy-to-live-with electric car.

Read our full BYD Dolphin Surf Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from January 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.