BYD ATTO 3 Review: worth buying in 2024?

BYD Atto 3 Review: Is it worth buying in 2024? How does it compare with rivals such as Tesla?

BYD, the trailblazing Chinese automaker, has been making waves in the automotive landscape since 1995. While initially recognised as a prominent battery manufacturer, their foray into electric vehicles has been nothing short of remarkable.  

The BYD ATTO 3, a testament to their journey, has garnered widespread acclaim, with over 5 million units sold in record time. In this article, we dissect the intricacies of this electric marvel, examining its design, features, and performance. 

In a head-to-head competition with giants like the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai IONIQ 5, and Kia EV6, the BYD ATTO 3 stands its ground impressively.  

Priced lower than many rivals yet equipped with an array of outstanding features, it has swiftly emerged as a formidable player in the electric SUV segment. Before delving into the exterior design, we’ll scrutinize its specifications and pricing to help you make an informed decision. 

Prefer to watch cars in action? Watch our in-depth review of the BYD ATTO 3 on our YouTube channel below:

What is the design of the ATTO 3 like?

The front facade of the ATTO 3 boldly captures attention with its dragon-faced design, exuding a futuristic vibe. Sharp lines lead your gaze to the integrated LED headlights, complemented by full-width LED daytime running lights.  

Fake air intakes add an imposing touch, while real ones cool the batteries efficiently. Indents on the front aid aerodynamics, with subtle BYD branding on a chrome strip. 

BYD Atto 3 review design

Transitioning to the side profile, the ATTO 3 flaunts bold, muscular contours, accentuated by pronounced wheel arches. Its 18-inch wheels, exclusively styled, strike a balance between comfort and style.  

Automatic folding door mirrors, equipped with blind-spot monitoring, add to the functionality. Roof rails, featuring a 50 kg weight capacity, and chrome edging framing the side windows contribute to the overall aesthetic. 

The rear, unconventional and captivating, showcases a full-width tail light bar, a prominent spoiler, and stylised “Build Your Dreams” branding.  

While the design echoes boldness and aggression, it seamlessly blends various elements, creating a consistent, stylish appearance. The silhouette, reminiscent of Volvo XC60, Kia Niro EV, and a touch of BMW X3, concocts a distinctive visual blend. 

How practical is the boot?

BYD Atto 3 boot

Boasting a generous 440 litres of boot capacity with seats up and expanding to 1,340 litres with seats folded, the ATTO 3 exemplifies practicality. A square opening, low loading lip, side pockets, and underfloor space enhance usability.  

The height-adjustable boot floor adds versatility, making loading and unloading effortless. While not the largest in its class, the ATTO 3 compensates with practicality and adaptability. 

How is the BYD ATTO 3 to drive?

Embarking on the driving experience, we’re introduced to Katie’s perspective in the BYD Atto 3 review. Powered by a single electric motor delivering 201 horsepower, it accelerates from 0 to 62mph in a commendable 7.3 seconds.

The vertically mounted blade battery, a compact design marvel, offers a range of around 260 miles on paper, translating to an impressive real-world performance. 

Utilising an 11kW wall box for an 8-hour charge or supporting fast charging up to 88kW, the ATTO 3 demonstrates efficiency in replenishing its energy reserves.  

Katie, while praising the car’s comfort, handling, and power delivery, emphasizes the remarkable noise levels and overall smoothness of the driving experience. 

The ATTO 3’s foundation lies in BYD’s E-Platform 3.0, a dedicated platform for electric vehicles. This purpose-built structure ensures optimal efficiency, improved range, and enhanced safety.  

Katie attests to the vehicle’s reassuring safety with its five-star Euro NCAP rating, underscoring its commitment to passenger protection. 

What is the interior like?

Stepping inside the ATTO 3 reveals a spacious cabin adorned with soft-touch plastics, vegan leather, chrome accents, and gloss black elements.  

The six-way electrically adjustable seats, paired with a manually adjustable steering wheel, offer an ideal driving position. The vegan leather-wrapped steering wheel hosts controls for driver assist features and infotainment. 

The attention-stealing feature is the rotating infotainment display, akin to a giant iPad. Responsive and customisable, it provides a user-friendly interface with standard features like navigation, DAB radio, and smartphone integration.  

Rear interior

Beneath it, innovative air vents, wireless charging, a satisfying gear selector, and a myriad of controls contribute to a futuristic cockpit. 

The ATTO 3’s rear cabin mirrors the comfort and space of the front. Ample legroom, a flat floor, and rear air vents ensure a pleasant journey for passengers.  

Folding armrests, cupholders, and USB ports enhance the convenience. In a nod to practicality, the rear seats split fold, expanding cargo space when needed. 

What tech is on offer?

BYD’s commitment to technology manifests in the ATTO 3’s advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Equipped with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and a 360-degree camera, the ATTO 3 prioritises safety.  

Katie, impressed with the intelligent features, lauds the seamless integration of tech into the driving experience. 

Connectivity takes center stage with the BYD DiLink 3.0 system. Offering over-the-air updates, real-time traffic information, and remote vehicle monitoring, it elevates the ownership experience.  

The ATTO 3 seamlessly integrates with smartphones, allowing users to control various functions remotely. 

BYD Atto 3 Review Conclusion: Should you buy one?

As we conclude our journey with the BYD ATTO 3, it becomes evident that BYD has crafted a compelling electric SUV.  

Competing against well-established rivals, it manages to carve a niche with its distinctive design, practicality, and an enticing blend of technology and performance.  

While the charging infrastructure remains a concern in certain regions, the ATTO 3’s overall package positions it as a serious contender in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle landscape. 

In the words of Katie, the ATTO 3 is more than just an electric SUV; it’s a bold statement, a glimpse into the future of Chinese automotive prowess.  

Whether it’s the eye-catching design, efficient powertrain, or the intelligent tech within, the BYD ATTO 3 stands tall, beckoning enthusiasts to embrace the electric revolution with open arms. 

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