Comparison & Review
BYD Dolphin vs MG4: Which Budget EV Wins?
If you want the best mix of value, comfort, and daily usability, the BYD Dolphin stands out as the smarter budget EV pick. While the MG4 thrills with its sporty drive and huge early demand (26,000 orders in 15 days), the Dolphin’s lower price and plush interior win for everyday drivers.
Key Takeaways
- The BYD Dolphin offers a plush interior and lower price, making it ideal for city driving and daily use.
- The MG4 excels in sporty handling and faster charging, making it a better choice for those who enjoy a lively driving experience.
- Consider your priorities: choose the Dolphin for comfort and tech features, or the MG4 for performance and practicality.
Quick Look: BYD Dolphin & MG4 Overview
If you’re shopping for a budget-friendly EV, you’ll probably see the BYD Dolphin and MG4 at the top of your list. Both cars offer a lot for the price, but they take different approaches. Let’s break down what you get with each one.
Tip: If you want a plush cabin and a big infotainment screen, the Dolphin might catch your eye first. If you care about sporty driving and quick charging, the MG4 stands out.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you spot the differences fast:
| Feature | BYD Dolphin | MG4 |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment | Superior with 12.3 inch screen | Standard offering |
| Charging Speed | Slower DC charging | Faster DC charging |
| Warranty | Longer battery warranty | Stronger vehicle warranty |
| Size | Slightly taller | Wider |
| Weight | 152 kg lighter | Heavier |
| Performance | Less acceleration | Faster acceleration |
| Range | Comparable driving range | Slightly more range |
| Other Features | Panoramic glass roof standard | Sunroof as an option |
You’ll notice the Dolphin gives you a bigger screen and a panoramic glass roof as standard. The MG4, on the other hand, offers a wider body and a bit more range. You get faster acceleration and quicker DC charging with the MG4, which makes it a solid pick if you love driving or need to top up quickly.
Both cars come with strong warranties, but the Dolphin covers the battery for longer. The MG4’s vehicle warranty is a little better. If you want a lighter car, the Dolphin wins there too.
So, which one fits your lifestyle? Keep reading to see how these specs play out in real-world driving.
Price & Value
When you start comparing electric cars, price is usually the first thing you check. Let’s look at how the byd dolphin and MG4 stack up in Australia, where both models are popular choices.
| Model | Price (AUD) | Battery Size | Range (km) | Power Output (kW) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MG 4 51kWh Excite | $38,990 | 51 kWh | 350 | 125 |
| MG 4 64kWh Excite | $44,990 | 64 kWh | 450 | 150 |
| MG 4 64kWh Essence | $47,990 | 64 kWh | 450 | 150 |
| MG 4 77kWh Essence | $55,990 | 77 kWh | TBD | TBD |
| BYD Dolphin | $42,000 | 44.9 kWh | 520 | TBD |
You’ll notice the byd dolphin comes in at a lower starting price than most MG4 trims. If you want the longest range for your dollar, the Dolphin’s 520 km is impressive for its price. The MG4 offers more battery options and a wider range of trims, so you can pick a model that fits your needs.
Let’s do a quick comparison of standard features:
| Feature | BYD Dolphin | MG4 |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Screen | 12.8-inch rotating | 10.25-inch tablet-style |
| Sunroof | Panoramic sunroof | N/A |
| Cruise Control | Radar-guided cruise control | N/A |
| Adjustable Seats | Six-way adjustable electric seats | N/A |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | N/A | Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto |
| Safety Technologies | N/A | Active safety assistance technologies |
If you want a plush interior and tech features, the Dolphin gives you more for less. The MG4, though, gets high marks in expert review for its driving experience and fast charging. Experts rate the MG4 as the best value electric car for its range and charging speed, but the Dolphin wins on price and comfort.
Verdict: If you care about budget and comfort, the byd dolphin is the clear winner. If you want a sportier drive and more trim choices, the MG4 might be worth the extra cash. This comparison shows you can’t go wrong with either, but your priorities will decide which is best.
Driving
Performance
If you love quick acceleration, you’ll notice a big difference between these two EVs. The MG4 really stands out when you hit the pedal. Take a look at this simple comparison:
| Vehicle | 0-100 km/h Acceleration Time |
|---|---|
| BYD Dolphin Boost | 7.5 seconds |
| MG4 | 3.8 seconds |
The MG4 almost halves the time it takes to reach highway speeds. You’ll feel that extra punch every time you merge or overtake. The byd dolphin is no slouch, but it focuses more on smoothness than speed.
Handling
When you drive the MG4, you get a more engaging experience. Many review sources point out a few key things:
- The MG4 feels more fun to drive, especially when you take corners.
- Its rear-wheel drive and tuned suspension give you better control.
- Some reviewers say it’s not as sporty as older models, but it still beats the Dolphin for excitement.
The BYD Dolphin is primarily focused on ride comfort, effectively absorbing potholes and larger bumps, making it ideal for urban driving. However, this comfort comes at the cost of handling, leading to understeering and inconsistent braking. In contrast, the MG4 offers better handling, being more suited to UK roads due to its rear-wheel drive and improved suspension tuning, resulting in a more refined driving experience.
So, which is more enjoyable to drive? If you want a relaxing city ride, the Dolphin wins. If you crave a bit of fun and sharper handling, the MG4 takes the crown. This comparison shows that your choice depends on what you want from your daily drive. Every review agrees: the MG4 brings more excitement behind the wheel.
Interior & Tech
Cabin Quality
Step inside the BYD Dolphin, and you’ll notice the difference right away. The cabin feels modern and inviting. Soft-touch materials cover the dash and doors. The seats offer good support, even on longer drives. You get a panoramic glass roof that lets in plenty of light, making the space feel bigger. Many drivers mention in their review that the Dolphin’s interior looks and feels more premium than you’d expect at this price.
The MG4 takes a simpler approach. The design feels clean, but the materials seem less plush. Some review sources point out that the MG4’s cabin can feel a bit basic, especially if you care about soft finishes and comfort. You still get a practical layout, but the Dolphin wins for style and comfort.
Features
When you look at tech, both cars bring a lot to the table. Here’s a quick comparison of what you get:
- BYD Dolphin:
- 12.3-inch center screen with a user-friendly interface
- High-quality sound system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Mobile app with many features
- MG4:
- Intelligent infotainment system co-developed with OPPO
- Voice-controlled vehicle preparation
- Smartphone-to-vehicle app integration
- Shake-to-navigate and AI-driven features
You’ll find the Dolphin’s screen bigger and easier to use. The MG4 stands out with its smart tech, like voice control and AI features. If you want a simple, stylish cabin with a great screen, the Dolphin is your pick. If you love smart gadgets, the MG4 might catch your eye.
Verdict: For most drivers, the BYD Dolphin offers the better interior and tech package. It feels more comfortable and looks more upscale. The MG4 brings clever features, but the Dolphin wins this comparison.
Range & Charging
Real-World Range
When you look at electric cars, range matters a lot. You want to know how far you can go before you need to plug in. Both the BYD Dolphin and MG4 offer solid numbers, but the real-world results tell the full story. Take a look at this table from recent tests:
| Battery Configuration | Electric Range | City Range (Mild Weather) | Highway Range (Mild Weather) | Combined Range (Mild Weather) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 44.9 kWh Active | 255 km | 385 km | 230 km | 295 km |
| 44.9 kWh Boost | 255 km | 380 km | 230 km | 290 km |
| 60.4 kWh | 340 km | 505 km | 305 km | 390 km |
You can see that the Dolphin’s larger battery gives you more range, especially in the city. Some drivers even reported getting up to 520 km on a cold day with the heater running. That’s impressive for a budget EV.
The MG4’s real-world range sits close to the Dolphin’s, especially if you pick the bigger battery. In a direct comparison, both cars handle daily commutes and weekend trips without much worry. Many review sites praise the Dolphin for its city range, while the MG4 gets good marks for highway driving.
Charging Speed
Charging speed can make or break your EV experience. If you want to get back on the road fast, the MG4 has a clear edge. Here’s how the charging times stack up:
| Vehicle | Charge Time (10% to 80%) | Range Provided |
|---|---|---|
| BYD Dolphin Dynamic | 38 minutes | 235 km |
| BYD Dolphin Premium/Sport | 35 minutes | 300 km |
| MG4 | 21 minutes | 360 km |
The MG4 charges from 10% to 80% in just 21 minutes at a public fast charger. The BYD Dolphin takes a bit longer, around 35-38 minutes. The MG4’s DC fast charging speed reaches up to 88-90 kW, while the Dolphin’s is slower. If you often take long trips or hate waiting, you’ll notice the difference.
Tip: If you value quick pit stops, the MG4 will save you time. For city drivers who charge overnight, the Dolphin’s slower speed may not matter as much.
Practicality
When you think about living with an electric car every day, space and comfort matter a lot. If you have a family or just need room for groceries, you’ll want to check out how the BYD Dolphin and MG4 stack up.
Let’s start with trunk space. The MG4 gives you 365 liters, which is a bit more than the Dolphin’s 345 liters. You can fold the MG4’s rear seats to make extra room for bigger items. The Dolphin also lets you fold the seats, and you get up to 1,310 liters of expanded storage. That’s plenty for a weekend trip or a big shopping run.
Now, let’s talk about rear seat comfort. The Dolphin feels roomy and well-equipped in the back. You can fit four adults without much trouble. The MG4’s rear seats feel tighter, especially if you’re tall. Some people mention in their review that the MG4’s lack of a rear interior light makes it tough to see when you’re fitting a child seat at night. That’s a small thing, but it can be a hassle for families.
- MG4 boot space: 365 liters
- Rear seats fold for extra storage
- No rear interior light (can be tricky for families)
If you want a car that’s easy to live with, the Dolphin wins this comparison. It gives you more flexible storage and a more comfortable back seat. The MG4 offers a bigger boot, but the Dolphin’s thoughtful features make daily life smoother.
Best Electric Vehicle Under $50,000: Verdict
Final Verdict: Which Budget EV Comes Out on Top?
Choosing the best electric vehicle under $50,000 can feel overwhelming, but you want a car that fits your life and your wallet. After looking at every comparison and reading each review, you can see why so many drivers lean toward the BYD Dolphin. It gives you a plush interior, a smooth ride, and a price that makes sense for everyday budgets. You also get low service costs over time, which helps you save money year after year. For most people, this car just feels right for city driving and daily errands.
If you care about long-term costs, the Dolphin stands out. Here’s a quick look at what you might spend on service:
- 12 Months: £99.25
- 24 Months: £310.73
- 36 Months: £99.25
- 48 Months: £403.08
These prices include labor, air filters, and even brake fluid and gear oil at certain intervals. You won’t get any big surprises when it’s time for a checkup.
The MG4 brings a different kind of value. It gives you a sportier drive, faster charging, and a bigger boot. If you plan to drive between cities or want a car that feels lively on the road, the MG4 makes a strong case. However, you should know that the MG4 loses about 29% of its value in the first year, though it holds up better than some rivals after that.
Here’s how these two compare with other popular EVs in the same price range:
| Model | MSRP Range | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| BYD Dolphin | ~$42,000 | Plush interior, low running costs, city-friendly |
| MG4 | $38,990 – $47,990 | Sporty drive, fast charging, bigger boot |
| 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 | $39,735 – $57,055 | Friendly driving, quick acceleration (AWD) |
| 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz | $50,000 – $58,000 | Customizable interior, family features |
You can see that both the Dolphin and MG4 offer strong value compared to other options. The Dolphin wins for comfort and cost, while the MG4 stands out for driving fun.
Note: If you want a car that feels special every day and keeps your costs low, the BYD Dolphin is the best electric vehicle under $50,000 for most buyers.
Who Should Buy the BYD Dolphin or MG4?
You might still wonder which car fits your lifestyle. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
- Pick the BYD Dolphin if:
- You drive mostly in the city.
- You want a unique design and lots of tech.
- You care about low service costs and a plush cabin.
- You’re a single person or a couple who values comfort and style.
- Choose the MG4 if:
- You have a small family and need a bigger boot.
- You want a car that feels sporty and fun to drive.
- You plan to take longer trips between cities.
- You prefer a more classic look and practical features.
The Dolphin shines for city dwellers and tech lovers. The MG4 works better for families or anyone who wants a more engaging drive. Both cars offer great value, but your needs will decide which one feels like home.
If you’re still unsure, take both for a test drive. You’ll know which one puts a bigger smile on your face.
You want value, comfort, and a smooth drive—byd dolphin delivers. If you crave sporty handling or a bigger boot, MG4 might suit you better. Check out this quick table to compare what matters most:
| Feature | MG4 Excite 51 | BYD Dolphin Dynamic |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $38,990 | $38,890 |
| Range (WLTP) | 350km | 340km |
| Boot (max) | 1177L | 1310L |
Think about your priorities before you decide!
FAQ
Is the BYD Dolphin or MG4 cheaper to maintain?
You’ll spend less on routine service with the BYD Dolphin. Its maintenance costs stay lower over time, so you can save more in the long run.
Which EV is better for long road trips?
The MG4 charges faster and offers a bit more highway range. You’ll spend less time at charging stations, making it a better pick for longer journeys.
Can you fit a family in either car?
Yes, both work for small families. The MG4 gives you a bigger trunk, but the Dolphin’s rear seats feel roomier for passengers.
