The electric vehicle (EV) market has seen remarkable growth, with manufacturers worldwide competing to offer affordable, efficient, and feature-rich options for eco-conscious consumers. Two standout contenders in the compact EV segment are the Hyundai Kona Electric and the BYD Dolphin. Both vehicles promise impressive range, practical design, and modern technology, but how do they stack up in terms of power and range? This article dives deep into a head-to-head comparison of the Hyundai Kona Electric and the BYD Dolphin, focusing on their powertrains, battery range, charging capabilities, and overall performance, while also touching on design, features, and value for money.
Overview of the Hyundai Kona Electric
The Hyundai Kona Electric, a compact SUV, has been a pioneer in the affordable EV space since its debut. The 2025 model builds on its predecessor’s success with a sleek redesign, improved interior space, and enhanced efficiency. Available in multiple trims, including the Standard Range and Extended Range variants, the Kona Electric caters to buyers seeking a blend of practicality, style, and performance. It’s positioned as a versatile option for urban commuters and small families, with a reputation for reliability and a strong warranty package.
Overview of the BYD Dolphin
The BYD Dolphin, a relative newcomer from the Chinese automaker BYD, has quickly gained attention as one of the most affordable EVs on the market. Launched in 2021 and updated for 2023 and beyond, the Dolphin is a compact hatchback designed to appeal to budget-conscious buyers who don’t want to compromise on features or range. With its quirky design and innovative technology, the Dolphin aims to challenge established players like Hyundai by offering a compelling value proposition.
Power: Motors and Performance
Hyundai Kona Electric
The Hyundai Kona Electric offers two powertrain options depending on the trim:
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Standard Range: Equipped with a front-mounted electric motor producing 99 kW (133 hp) and 255 Nm of torque. This setup is designed for efficiency, with a 0-100 km/h sprint time of approximately 9.9 seconds.
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Extended Range: Features a more powerful motor delivering 150 kW (201 hp) and the same 255 Nm of torque. This variant accelerates from 0-100 km/h in about 8.1 seconds, offering a slightly sportier feel.
The Kona Electric’s power delivery is smooth and linear, making it ideal for city driving and highway cruising. Its front-wheel-drive configuration ensures predictable handling, and the vehicle feels nimble despite its SUV proportions. The Extended Range model, in particular, provides enough grunt for confident overtaking and merging, though it’s not designed to compete with high-performance EVs like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.
BYD Dolphin
The BYD Dolphin also offers multiple powertrain options, depending on the market and variant:
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Base Model: Features a 70 kW (95 hp) motor with 180 Nm of torque, achieving a 0-100 km/h time of around 10 seconds. This setup prioritizes efficiency over performance.
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Higher-Spec Variants (e.g., Premium Extended): Deliver up to 150 kW (201 hp) and 310 Nm of torque, resulting in a quicker 0-100 km/h time of approximately 7 seconds.
The Dolphin’s higher-powered variants feel sprightly, especially in urban environments, where its compact hatchback design and responsive steering shine. The increased torque in the top models gives it an edge in acceleration compared to the Kona Electric’s base model, though the Kona’s Extended Range variant is more comparable in terms of outright power. The Dolphin’s ride is balanced, with a suspension tuned for comfort, making it a fun and engaging option for daily driving.
Power Verdict: The Kona Electric’s Extended Range model and the Dolphin’s higher-spec variants are closely matched in power output, with the Dolphin’s top model offering a slight edge in torque and acceleration. For buyers prioritizing efficiency, the base models of both vehicles are adequate, but the Kona’s Standard Range has a slight power advantage over the Dolphin’s base motor.
Range: Battery Capacity and Efficiency
Hyundai Kona Electric
The Kona Electric comes with two battery options:
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Standard Range: A 48.6 kWh battery pack offering an EPA-estimated range of approximately 320 km (200 miles). In real-world testing, it achieves around 230 miles (370 km), making it suitable for daily commutes and short trips.
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Extended Range: A larger 64.8 kWh battery pack that boosts the EPA-estimated range to 514 km (319 miles). Real-world tests suggest a range closer to 400-450 km under typical conditions.
The Kona Electric’s efficiency is impressive, with EPA fuel economy estimates of 129 MPGe in the city and 103 MPGe on the highway. In a 75-mph highway test, it delivered 110 MPGe, showcasing its ability to maintain efficiency at higher speeds. The vehicle’s aerodynamic design and regenerative braking system contribute to its strong range performance.
BYD Dolphin
The BYD Dolphin also offers multiple battery configurations:
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Base Model: A 44.9 kWh battery with a WLTP range of around 340 km (211 miles). Real-world estimates suggest 300-320 km in mixed conditions.
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Premium Extended: A 60.4 kWh battery that delivers a WLTP range of up to 427 km (265 miles), with real-world figures typically ranging from 350-400 km.
The Dolphin’s efficiency is competitive, though slightly less impressive than the Kona Electric’s, with estimates around 120 MPGe in combined driving. Its compact size and lighter curb weight (1,658 kg vs. the Kona’s 1,690 kg) help maximize range, particularly in city driving, where stop-start traffic allows the regenerative braking system to shine.
Range Verdict: The Hyundai Kona Electric Extended Range takes the lead with its superior battery capacity and real-world range, making it the better choice for long-distance drivers. The BYD Dolphin, however, offers a competitive range for its price point, especially in its Premium Extended variant, and is well-suited for urban environments.
Charging Capabilities
Hyundai Kona Electric
The Kona Electric supports both AC and DC charging:
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AC Charging: Up to 10.4 kW, allowing a full charge (0-100%) in about 6.5 hours on an 11 kW charger.
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DC Fast Charging: Limited to 100 kW, which enables a 10-80% charge in approximately 45 minutes on a 100 kW charger or just over an hour on a 50 kW system.
While the Kona’s charging speeds are adequate for most users, they lag behind some competitors, such as the Kia Niro EV, which supports faster DC charging. The Type 2 CCS charging port ensures compatibility with a wide range of public chargers.
BYD Dolphin
The Dolphin’s charging capabilities vary by variant:
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AC Charging: Supports up to 7.4 kW (or 11 kW in some markets), with a full charge taking around 7-8 hours on a 7.4 kW charger.
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DC Fast Charging: Up to 88 kW for the Premium Extended model, achieving a 10-80% charge in about 40-50 minutes. Lower-spec models may be limited to 60 kW, extending charging times slightly.
The Dolphin’s charging performance is solid for its price point, though it doesn’t match the fastest-charging EVs in the market. Its compact battery size means shorter overall charging times compared to larger-battery vehicles.
Charging Verdict: The Kona Electric has a slight edge in AC charging speed, while the Dolphin’s DC charging is marginally faster in higher-spec models. Both vehicles offer practical charging solutions for daily use, but neither stands out as a leader in fast-charging technology.
Design and Practicality
Hyundai Kona Electric
The Kona Electric’s SUV design provides a higher driving position and more cargo space, with 466 liters of boot space (expandable to 1,300 liters with seats folded). Its dimensions (435.5 cm long, 182.5 cm wide, 158 cm tall) make it slightly larger than the Dolphin, offering a more spacious interior for passengers. The cabin features a modern layout with twin 12.3-inch screens, premium materials (especially in higher trims), and ample storage. The Kona’s ride quality is refined, with a suspension that balances comfort and handling, though its 19-inch wheels on premium trims may reduce range slightly.
BYD Dolphin
The Dolphin’s hatchback design is more compact (429 cm long, 177 cm wide, 157 cm tall), making it easier to maneuver in tight urban spaces. Its boot space is smaller at 345 liters (expandable to 1,310 liters), but the interior feels surprisingly spacious for its size, with ergonomic seating and a 15.8-inch rotating touchscreen as a standout feature. The Dolphin’s ride is smooth and balanced, with a suspension tuned for comfort, though some markets report less grippy tires affecting handling in wet conditions.
Design Verdict: The Kona Electric offers more cargo space and a premium SUV feel, while the Dolphin’s compact hatchback design is ideal for city dwellers. Both vehicles provide practical interiors, but the Dolphin’s unique touchscreen and quirky styling give it a distinct personality.
Features and Technology
The Kona Electric comes well-equipped with standard features like LED lighting, dual-zone climate control, wireless charging, and a suite of driver-assistance systems (e.g., automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring). Higher trims add luxuries like heated/cooled seats, a Bose stereo, and a head-up display. The Dolphin counters with a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera in higher-spec models. Its rotating touchscreen supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, adding a tech-forward appeal.
Features Verdict: Both vehicles are feature-rich, but the Dolphin edges out slightly with its innovative touchscreen and additional safety features in some markets. The Kona, however, offers a more polished and cohesive interior experience.
Pricing and Value
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Hyundai Kona Electric: Starts at approximately $34,270 (US) or $54,000 (Australia) for the Standard Range, with the Premium Extended Range priced at $68,000 (Australia) or $42,445 (US). Its higher price reflects its SUV design and larger battery options.
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BYD Dolphin: Starts at around $32,990 (EU) or $36,890 (Australia) for the base model, with the Premium Extended at $42,890 (Australia). Its lower price point makes it one of the most affordable EVs available.
Value Verdict: The Dolphin offers unbeatable value for budget-conscious buyers, while the Kona Electric justifies its higher price with greater range and a more premium feel.
In Summary
The Hyundai Kona Electric and BYD Dolphin are both compelling choices in the compact EV market, each catering to slightly different priorities. The Kona Electric excels in range, with its Extended Range model offering up to 514 km, making it ideal for longer trips. Its SUV design, spacious interior, and refined ride quality appeal to families and those seeking a premium experience. The BYD Dolphin, meanwhile, stands out for its affordability, quirky design, and nimble handling, with its higher-spec models delivering competitive power and range for urban drivers.
For buyers prioritizing maximum range and a versatile SUV package, the Kona Electric is the clear winner. However, the Dolphin’s lower price, innovative features, and compact design make it a fantastic option for city commuters or first-time EV buyers. Ultimately, the choice depends on your budget, driving needs, and preference for style versus practicality.