BYD is giving UK buyers another reason to consider plug-in hybrids with the arrival of its new Atto 2 DM-i, a small SUV featuring a petrol engine, a battery, and a starting price of £26,995.
That price positions the Atto 2 DM-i below BYD's other plug-in hybrid SUVs, including the Seal U DM-i, Sealion 5 DM-i, and Seal 6 DM-i models. It brings the brand's so-called Super Hybrid technology into a smaller, more affordable, and highly competitive segment of the market.
With this launch, the Atto 2 range now includes both fully electric and plug-in hybrid versions, giving buyers the choice between full EV capability or the flexibility of a petrol engine for longer journeys.
Two Versions: Active and Boost
The Atto 2 DM-i is offered in two versions, named Active and Boost. Both are powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine, but the engine primarily acts as a generator for the electric motor rather than directly driving the wheels. BYD states that the petrol engine only sends power to the wheels under heavier loads.
The Active model comes with a 7.8kWh battery and a total system output of 163bhp, with 300Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0-62mph in 9.1 seconds and has a top speed of 111mph. Its electric-only maximum range is 24 miles, rising to 31 miles in urban driving. Combined petrol and electric range is claimed at 577 miles.
The Boost model features a larger 18kWh battery and increased power, with total output rising to 209bhp. Torque remains at 300Nm, but the 0-62mph time drops to 7.5 seconds. The official electric-only range increases to 55 miles, or up to 93 miles in town. Total range is quoted at 621 miles.
As with all plug-in hybrids, fuel economy figures depend heavily on regular charging and short electric trips. BYD quotes 201.7mpg for the Active and 470.8mpg for the Boost on the official test cycle, but these are only achievable with frequent charging and prioritising battery use.
Dimensions and Interior
The Atto 2 DM-i measures 4,330mm long, 1,830mm wide, and 1,675mm tall, placing it at the larger end of the small SUV class. Boot space is 425 litres with the rear seats up, expanding to 1,335 litres with them folded, offering more room than many family hatchbacks.
All versions include a 12.8-inch touchscreen with Google Automotive Services, featuring Google Maps for navigation, Google Assistant voice control, and access to apps via the Google Play store. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard.
Standard Equipment
The Active model comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, taillights and daytime running lights, rain-sensing wipers, heated and electrically adjustable mirrors, an 8.8-inch driver display, four USB ports, rear parking sensors, and a rear-view camera.
The Boost, priced from £29,995, adds 17-inch wheels, aluminium roof rails, rear privacy glass, a panoramic sunroof, front parking sensors, folding mirrors, vegan leather upholstery, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, rear reading lights, a 360-degree camera, 50W wireless phone charging, and vehicle-to-load technology for powering external devices.
Charging and Availability
Charging speeds differ: the Active has a 3.3kW AC charger, while the Boost gets a faster 6.6kW system. BYD says the Active can charge from 15 to 100 per cent in 2.7 hours, and the Boost takes three hours with its 6.6kW charger.
The Atto 2 DM-i joins a growing list of plug-in hybrid BYDs in the UK, as Chinese brands expand beyond pure electric cars. Order books open on 2 June, with first deliveries expected in August.
