In the ever-growing world of electric vehicles, BYD has been making waves as one of the fastest-growing car brands, gaining immense popularity, particularly in Europe. With a strong reputation in China and an expanding global presence, BYD has introduced yet another exciting model to its lineup—the BYD Atto 2. Positioned as a smaller sibling to the Atto 3, this compact electric SUV aims to provide an affordable, practical, and stylish alternative to competitors like the Kia EV3, Hyundai Kona Electric, and Smart #1.

The BYD Atto 2 is designed for urban commuters and budget-conscious buyers who want the benefits of an electric SUV without breaking the bank. With a fresh design, high-tech features, and BYD’s industry-leading Blade Battery technology, does the Atto 2 have what it takes to dominate its segment? Let’s dive into the details.

Exterior Design: A Compact Yet Stylish Approach

First impressions matter, and the BYD Atto 2 certainly makes a statement. While its design isn’t as flamboyant as some of BYD’s other models, it still carries a modern and sophisticated aesthetic. Up front, it features full LED headlights with sleek daytime running lights (DRLs), giving it a sharp, aggressive look. A roof spoiler adds a sporty touch, while the clean lines along the sides give it a premium feel.

The color palette is limited to four shades, which keeps things simple but stylish. The 17-inch alloy wheels complement its overall stance, making it appear well-proportioned for an urban-friendly SUV.

Compared to its bigger sibling, the Atto 3, the Atto 2 is noticeably more compact, making it ideal for city driving. Yet, it still offers a raised SUV-like stance, ensuring better road presence than a traditional hatchback.

Interior & Technology: Premium Feel Without the Premium Price

Cabin Design & Comfort

Step inside the BYD Atto 2, and you’re greeted with a well-crafted interior that blends modern design with functionality. Unlike some of BYD’s other vehicles that feature quirky, unconventional dashboards, the Atto 2 keeps things simple and intuitive. The materials feel high-quality for its price, and while there’s a fair share of hard plastics, they don’t feel cheap.

The driving position is high, providing excellent visibility of the road ahead. The front seats offer electric adjustments (for both the driver and passenger), but lumbar support is currently missing, though it may be added in future trims.

Infotainment System & Features

One of the biggest highlights of the Atto 2’s interior is its rotating infotainment screen—a signature feature of BYD’s modern lineup. The 12.8-inch touchscreen can rotate between landscape and portrait mode, making it unique in this segment. While the user interface is snappier than before, the small icons and text may take some getting used to.

Apple CarPlay is supported but only works in landscape mode, which could be a slight inconvenience for those who prefer portrait orientation for navigation. The digital driver’s display is 8.8 inches, offering essential driving information in a clean and easy-to-read format.

One standout feature is the three-finger swipe gesture for climate control. Instead of fumbling with buttons or navigating menus, users can simply swipe with three fingers to adjust temperature and fan settings, reducing distractions while driving.

Space & Practicality: More Room Than Expected

Front & Rear Seating

Despite being a compact SUV, the BYD Atto 2 makes excellent use of its space. The front seats offer ample headroom and legroom, and the rear seats are surprisingly spacious for a car in this category.

Thanks to a completely flat floor, rear passengers enjoy more foot space, making it comfortable even for three people in the back. The presence of a panoramic sunroof further enhances the feeling of openness inside the cabin.

Boot Space & Storage

The boot space is 400 liters, which is larger than the BYD Dolphin’s 345 liters but smaller than the Kia EV3’s 460 liters. The inclusion of a height-adjustable boot floor increases practicality, allowing for flexible cargo management. However, one downside is the lack of a front trunk (frunk), a feature that some competitors offer.

Battery & Performance: A Reliable Electric Powertrain

BYD Blade Battery Technology

Under the hood, or rather under the floor, the BYD Atto 2 houses BYD’s Blade Battery, a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery known for its durability and temperature resistance. Unlike traditional nickel-based batteries, LFP batteries have a longer lifespan and improved safety, making them a reliable choice for an everyday EV.

Battery Capacity & Range

Internationally, the Atto 2 comes with a 45.1 kWh battery that provides a 194-mile range. However, the UK version will feature a larger 50 kWh battery, which should slightly increase the real-world range.

While the range is lower than some competitors (such as the Kia EV3’s 270 miles), it should still be sufficient for most urban and suburban drivers.

Driving Experience: Smooth, Quiet, and Urban-Friendly

Performance & Handling

The BYD Atto 2 prioritizes comfort and efficiency over raw performance. It delivers a smooth and refined driving experience, making it ideal for city commutes and light highway driving. The steering is light and responsive, allowing for effortless maneuvering in tight spaces.

Ride Quality

Despite its compact size, the suspension setup does a good job of absorbing bumps, ensuring a comfortable ride. Road noise is minimal, and the electric powertrain delivers instant torque, making acceleration feel lively in urban settings.

Pricing & Value for Money

While official UK pricing is yet to be confirmed, the Atto 2 is expected to be among the most affordable electric SUVs in its segment. Given BYD’s aggressive pricing strategy, it is likely to undercut rivals like the Kia EV3, Hyundai Kona Electric, and Smart #1, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers looking to enter the EV space.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the BYD Atto 2?

The BYD Atto 2 presents itself as an excellent option for urban dwellers and those looking for an affordable, practical, and efficient electric SUV. While it may not have the longest range or the most luxurious interior, it excels in practicality, technology, and affordability.

Pros:

• Compact yet spacious design
• Affordable pricing (expected)
• Innovative rotating infotainment screen
• BYD Blade Battery for durability and safety
• Comfortable ride and good interior space

Cons:

• Limited range compared to some rivals
• No front trunk (frunk)
• Small infotainment icons can be tricky to use

For buyers looking for a budget-friendly electric SUV that doesn’t compromise on features, the BYD Atto 2 is a worthy contender. With its high-tech features, spacious interior, and practical driving range, it has the potential to be a game-changer in the EV market.