BYD ATTO 2 DM-i

A small footprint, a petrol engine for long trips and a battery for the daily run: that is the idea behind the ATTO 2 DM-i. It is a compact SUV, about 4.3 metres long, that pairs a petrol engine with a plug-in battery under BYD's Super DM system. BYD says its easy manoeuvrability and small turning radius suit narrow streets, while a 75 kg roof rack and the hybrid system help on longer journeys.

Super DM and the battery

BYD describes DM as dual mode: the car runs as an electric vehicle when it can and as a hybrid when needed, and the letter i stands for intelligence. The bespoke Blade Battery for the hybrid platform offers capacities up to 18 kWh and, in the Boost version, up to 55 miles (about 88 km) of pure-electric driving. BYD quotes fuel consumption as low as 470.8 mpg on the WLTP weighted combined figure, a number that depends on charging regularly. Vehicle-to-load output on the Boost version lets owners power consoles, appliances or gadgets while camping.

Space and comfort

The boot is 425 litres, rising to 1,335 litres with the rear seats folded. The Boost version rides on 17 inch alloy wheels and gains vegan leather seats, six-way electric front seat adjustment, heating, wireless phone charging and a panoramic roof. A 12.8 inch touchscreen sits in the dashboard, and an upgraded gear selector frees space for storage.

Family safety and connectivity

The front passenger seat and the outer rear seats have ISOFIX and i-Size fittings for child seats. An advanced driver-assistance system is standard, with 360-degree cameras on Boost versions. NFC keyless entry works from a card or phone, and the BYD app can start the climate system remotely before a journey.

Key facts

• Powertrain: plug-in hybrid, BYD Super DM
• Electric-only range: up to 55 miles (about 88 km, Boost version)
• Battery: up to 18 kWh
• Boot: 425 litres, 1,335 litres with the seats folded
• Roof rack: 75 kg