BYD Atto 3 2024 review
Photo: Ethan Llamas (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The BYD Atto 3 is the car that put China's biggest electric carmaker on the UK map. This compact electric SUV arrived in 2023 with a simple pitch: Volkswagen ID.4 and Skoda Enyaq space, a five-star Euro NCAP rating, and a price from just £36,490. It worked — the Atto 3 quickly became one of Britain's best-selling Chinese EVs.
Every Atto 3 uses the same proven powertrain: a 60.48 kWh Blade battery driving a 204 bhp motor on the front axle, for 0–62 mph in 7.3 seconds and 260 miles of official range. DC rapid charging peaks at 88 kW, enough for 10–80% in about 29 minutes, while an 11 kW AC charger, heat pump and vehicle-to-load output are all standard. A 440-litre boot and 1,750 kg kerb weight keep it practical without feeling bulky.
The cabin is the Atto 3's calling card: a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen, playful gym-inspired details and generous standard kit across Active, Comfort and Design trims. Driver assistance, 360-degree cameras and heated seats all feature, and BYD's six-year, 93,750-mile warranty beats most European rivals.
It is not a driver's car — the steering is light and the ride soft — and the newer, faster-charging Atto 3 EVO has since arrived with more power. But the original remains a smart buy: spacious, safe, well equipped and honest value for money.
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UK price from: £36,490
Specifications
| Battery | 60.48 kWh (LFP Blade) |
| Power | 150 kW (204 bhp) |
| 0-62 mph | 7.3 seconds |
| Top speed | 99 mph |
| Range (WLTP) | 260 miles |
| Charging (DC max) | Up to 88 kW (10–80% in ~29 min) |
| Transmission | Single-speed reduction gear |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive |
| Boot space | 440 litres |
| Length | 4,455 mm |
| Kerb weight | 1,750 kg |
Features
- 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen with voice control
- Five-star Euro NCAP safety rating
- Heat pump and vehicle-to-load (V2L) as standard
- 88 kW DC rapid charging: 10–80% in about 29 minutes
- 360-degree camera and full driver-assistance suite
- Heated front seats and vegan leather upholstery
- 440-litre boot with split-folding rear seats
- Six-year, 93,750-mile vehicle warranty
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cabin pollen filter | £22.99 | Replace every 2 years |
| Front wiper blades (pair) | £26.99 | Flat aero blades |
| 12V auxiliary battery | £124.99 | AGM type |
| Front brake pads (set) | £59.99 | Low wear from regenerative braking |
| Rear brake pads (set) | £54.99 | Inspect at each service |
| Brake fluid change | £59 | Workshop service every 2 years |
Pros
- Five-star Euro NCAP crash safety
- Spacious 440-litre boot for the class
- Smooth, quiet and refined drivetrain
- Long list of standard equipment
Cons
- Only 88 kW DC charging — slower than rivals
- 260-mile range is average at best
- Soft handling and vague steering
- Infotainment glitches reported by owners
