BYD launches hybrid with 105 km range and starting price of €18,700 in Spain. BYD has introduced the Dolphin G DM-i in Spain—the country’s first plug-in city hybrid with a genuine electric range of up to 105 km. The model features a striking design, a digital interior, and a price tag competitive with popular models like the Clio and Yaris.
BYD has officially launched sales of the Dolphin G DM-i in Spain — the country's first plug-in hybrid city car, capable of driving up to 105 km on electric power alone. Until now, there were no PHEVs in the B-segment, and the arrival of this model could shift the balance among urban hatchbacks.
The Dolphin G DM-i looks modern on the outside: 4.16 meters long, 1.82 meters wide, with a clean front end featuring integrated LED headlights and a distinctive rear light bar. Despite its visual appeal, the choice of interior materials betrays its budget focus — the doors close with a characteristic metallic sound, and the cabin is dominated by hard plastics.
Technology and engines
The key feature is the DM-i 5.0 hybrid system, making its European debut on this model. It combines a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter petrol engine (95 hp) with a 163 hp electric motor. Depending on the battery chosen (7.42 or 18.3 kWh), the total output is 176 or 212 hp, and electric range varies from 40 to 105 km. The top version claims a combined range of up to 1,040 km and fuel consumption from 1.4 l/100 km, though in practice, as testers note, it may be higher.
The system always maintains a 20% battery reserve to support performance, even when the main charge is depleted. 0-100 km/h takes 8.3 seconds, with a top speed of 180 km/h. The suspension is set up for comfort, and both sound insulation and ride smoothness are clearly better than many rivals.
Interior and practicality
Inside, the Dolphin G DM-i features an 8.8-inch digital instrument panel and a central display of either 10.1 or 12.8 inches, depending on the configuration. The Comfort and Sport versions come with a head-up display — a rarity in this class. Rear legroom is not as generous as one might expect given the 2.61-meter wheelbase, and the high floor due to the battery forces passengers to sit with bent knees. However, the trunk — 425 liters plus 45 liters under the floor — is among the most spacious for city cars.
Price and competitors
The base Dolphin G DM-i Active version with a 7.42 kWh battery starts at €18,700 including all discounts and programs, while the top version with an 18.3 kWh battery and a range of 105 km starts at €21,400. By comparison, hybrid Renault Clio and Toyota Yaris start at a minimum of €23,300 and €21,500, respectively, but do not offer charging from the grid or such high electric range.
The arrival of the Dolphin G DM-i could pose a challenge to established players in the segment. As russpain.com notes, the city electric and hybrid car market is becoming increasingly competitive — similar rivalry has already been seen between the Kia EV4 and Volkswagen ID.3, when new technologies and pricing policies altered the balance of power..
BYD is focusing on European tastes: the design and equipment of the Dolphin G DM-i are tailored to local market requirements. In the coming months, it will become clear how ready Spanish buyers are to trust a Chinese brand and opt for a hybrid with genuine electric range instead of familiar petrol and classic hybrid models.
