The BYD Atto 2 is a bold new entry into the UK’s compact electric SUV market. Designed with urban living in mind, this B-segment crossover blends futuristic tech, thoughtful design, and sustainability all at a price point that’s hard to ignore.
At just 4.31 m long, the Atto 2 is perfectly sized for city driving, yet its generous 2.62 m wheelbase means there’s plenty of space inside for passengers and luggage.
Design & Visual Identity
The Atto 2 features BYD’s distinctive "Dragon Face" design language, offering a sleek silhouette with sculpted lines, compact overhangs, and a strong, planted stance. Signature LED lighting and rear tail-lights shaped like an infinity symbol bring both form and meaning to its exterior.
Colour options include Climbing Grey as standard, with eye-catching alternatives such as Cosmic Black, Hiking Green, and Skiing White.
Inside the Cabin: Comfort Meets Clever
Inside, the Atto 2 offers more than just aesthetics it’s a highly functional and refined space:
-
A 12.8‑inch rotatable touchscreen allows drivers to switch between portrait and landscape views.
-
Eco-conscious materials like vegan leather and soft-touch surfaces give the interior a premium feel.
-
Heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof all come standard.
-
Thanks to BYD’s dedicated EV platform, the flat floor allows for better rear legroom and comfort, with up to 1,340 L of boot space when rear seats are folded.
Powertrain & Range: Urban Focused
The UK variant launches with a 50 kWh Blade Battery (LFP), capable of up to 260 miles on the WLTP cycle. A more compact 45.1 kWh version with a range of around 194 miles is also available.
It’s powered by a single front motor producing 174 hp, achieving 0–62 mph in just 7.9 seconds more than adequate for everyday use.
Charging is practical too, with 65 kW DC fast charging (10–80% in around 37 minutes) and a standard 11 kW AC onboard charger. It also supports V2L (vehicle-to-load), allowing users to power small appliances or devices directly from the car great for camping or remote work.
Innovation Under the Hood
BYD packs some serious engineering into this compact SUV:
-
The Blade Battery is integrated into the chassis using Cell-to-Body (CTB) technology, increasing structural rigidity and safety.
-
An 8-in-1 electric powertrain package makes the Atto 2 more compact and energy-efficient.
-
A heat pump is included as standard, helping maintain efficiency even in colder weather.
Safety & Technology
The Atto 2 doesn’t skimp on safety or connectivity:
-
An extensive ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, emergency braking, driver fatigue monitoring, blind-spot detection, and more.
-
BYD’s intelligent infotainment system features 4G connectivity, OTA software updates, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, NFC keyless entry, and a voice assistant activated with “Hi BYD.”
How the Atto 2 Stacks Up
The Atto 2 is aimed squarely at value-conscious EV buyers who still want style, comfort, and innovation. With its expected starting price around £30,000, it undercuts many rivals like the Peugeot e-2008, Kia EV3, Jeep Avenger, Volvo EX30, and Vauxhall Frontera.
It’s also highly eco-conscious, with no cobalt or nickel in the battery, low energy consumption, and strong Green NCAP scores for environmental performance.
Verdict: A Compelling Choice for Urban EV Drivers
What We Love
✅ Modern design and high-tech interior
✅ Integrated battery-chassis for improved efficiency and safety
✅ Ideal for daily commutes and city life
What Could Be Better
⚠️ Base model range is modest compared to rivals
⚠️ Charging speed isn’t class-leading
⚠️ More tuned driving dynamics would help
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a city-friendly EV that’s future-ready, practical, and loaded with premium features without stretching your budget—the BYD Atto 2 deserves a top spot on your list. With arrival in UK showrooms expected summer 2025, this might just be the year BYD becomes a household name on British roads.