Until less than five years ago, BYD was relatively unknown in Europe. It’s worth recalling that the Chinese firm officially entered the European market in the summer of 2023 during the Munich auto show. However, it had already made a splash in 2022 at the Paris Motor Show. At that time, the company showcased only three models: the Han sedan, the Atto 3, and the large Tang SUV. Since then, the landscape has significantly changed.
Today, the company, headquartered in Shenzhen, boasts a well-stocked lineup in France. This was recently expanded with the introduction of the new Sealion 7, which we had the chance to test drive. Moreover, at the Brussels Motor Show in 2025, BYD also unveiled its new Atto 2, the European version of the Yuan Up that has been available in China since 2024.
With a starting price of 29,900 euros, the small SUV aims to help BYD conquer Europe and hopefully secure the top spot in electric vehicles ahead of Tesla. But how does the new Atto 2 really stack up? To find out, we took it for a spin over several days to discover its strengths and more.
BYD Atto 2Technical Specifications
| Model | BYD Atto 2 |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 4.31 m x 1.83 m x 1.68 m |
| Power (HP) | 177 HP |
| 0 to 100km/h | 7.9 s |
| Autonomy Level | Semi-autonomous driving (level 2) |
| Max Speed | 160 km/h |
| Main Screen Size | 12.8 inches |
| Car-side Plug | Type 2 Combo (CCS) |
|
Try it out |
Product Sheet |
BYD Atto 2
Design: Preserving the DNA
When the new BYD Atto 2 was first presented, it didn’t exactly come as a surprise. Logically, it retains the design of its Chinese counterpart, the Yuan Up. But that’s not all; its style is also inspired by the rest of the lineup, particularly the Dynasty range. For context, the manufacturer categorizes its models into two families: Ocean and Dynasty. While the former draws inspiration from the marine world with models like the Seal and Dolphin, the latter boasts a distinctly different style.
Designed by the teams led by Wolfgang Egger, who has previously worked with Alfa Romeo and Audi, the Atto 2 features a “dragon face.” This is characterized by elongated lights that extend from a thick black band. The brand’s name is prominently displayed, accompanied by a chrome strip. Below this, a solid grille is present to optimize the drag coefficient (Cx), which has not been disclosed.
The bumper is quite bold, adding some character to the SUV, which sports a rather conventional style. From a side view, the vehicle presents a rather massive silhouette, particularly due to its very straight roofline. The Atto 2 eschews a coupe-like style, which significantly benefits the headroom and overall spaciousness. We’ll touch on this more later. Roof rails are standard, as are the 17-inch wheels that come with all versions.
The dimensions remain compact, as the electric SUV measures 4.31 meters long, 1.83 meters wide, and 1.68 meters high. This allows it to compete with the Peugeot e-2008 and the Citroën ë-C3 Aircross, which we recently tested. Its ground clearance is listed at 16.5 centimeters, which is on the lower end for the segment. However, you’ll find that it’s still sufficient to provide a dignified level of comfort. Lastly, the rear part is more original than the front, thanks to the light signature. This takes the form of a Möbius strip, or an infinity symbol, depending on your perspective.
BYD Atto 2Spaciousness: Room and Comfort
As mentioned above, the new BYD Atto 2 is a compact vehicle primarily designed for urban use. One might assume that this limits the available space inside. However, the reality is quite the opposite. The small electric SUV boasts a generous wheelbase for its size, at 2.62 meters. This ensures ample roominess, especially for rear seat occupants. They enjoy comfortable seating on a cozy bench, with plenty of legroom and headroom.
Moreover, they also benefit from a glass panoramic roof that comes standard from the base model. However, the middle seat should be avoided, as it offers minimal comfort. The trunk capacity is listed at 400 liters, which is decent, although some competitors offer more. This includes the Renault 5 E-Tech (420 liters) and the Peugeot e-2008 (434 liters). Overall, the interior of the BYD Atto 2 is comfortable and pleasant, even at the front. The seats, made of synthetic leather, are electrically adjustable for both the driver and the passenger.
They are also heated in the Boost trim, but not in the base Active model. The perceived quality is generally good, as are the finishes, despite the presence of some slightly hard plastics. Admittedly, the dashboard design isn’t the most original, but it’s still well-executed. The cabin of the small SUV is marked by its understated elegance.
The layout is functional, and the ergonomics are very good despite the lack of physical buttons. This could pose some safety issues, as we explained in a previous article. Thus, EuroNCAP might penalize cars that rely too heavily on touch controls. It’s worth noting that the BYD Atto 2 does not skimp on comfort features, as it also includes keyless entry and start, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Finally, the crystal-effect gear selector adds a touch of originality to the SUV’s interior.
BYD Atto 2Infotainment: A Surprising Rotating Screen
It’s well-known that some models heavily feature screens, to the extent that it can become a bit excessive. Take, for example, the new Avatr 06, which boasts a massive digital panel that spans the entire dashboard. The BYD Atto 2 takes a different approach, positioning itself as an affordable vehicle. There’s no intention here to install a plethora of features just for show. The small Chinese SUV settles for a sufficiently large touch screen.
The screen has a diagonal size ranging from 10.1 to 12.8 inches depending on the trim level. It also has a unique feature. Like other models in the lineup, it is rotatable and can switch from horizontal to vertical with just a click. Unfortunately, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto are not supported in this position.
Additionally, the system includes a voice assistant activated by the command “Hi BYD.” The graphics are modern, and the responsiveness is solid, as is the overall ergonomics. However, a brief adjustment period may be necessary. The driver also benefits from a small 8.8-inch instrument cluster, which displays all the essential driving information, such as speed, consumption, and remaining range, among other details.
The driving experience can also be enhanced with a catalog of third-party apps, including one that allows for karaoke, as well as the ability to use video streaming platforms.
Navigation is also included as standard, along with 4G connectivity and an integrated route planner. Multiple USB-A and USB-C ports are available, both at the front and the rear. These are complemented by a cigarette lighter socket and a 15 W wireless charger in the top trim.
BYD Atto 2Driving Aids: All the Necessary Arsenal
As mentioned earlier, the new BYD Atto 2 positions itself as an affordable model. One might logically assume that this would mean a rather basic set of features. However, as we’ve seen with comfort features, this is not the case for driving aids: the compact SUV offers an impressive list of technologies.
Admittedly, it must comply with the GSR2 standard imposed by the European Union since July 2024, which includes lane keeping assistance, speed limit alerts, automatic emergency braking (AEB), and rear parking sensors with collision alerts.
All these technologies are standard on the Atto 2, but that’s not all. The SUV is also equipped with a plethora of other systems, some of which are included even in the base trim. This includes a rear-view camera, as well as the full suite of driving aids, enabling level 2 semi-autonomous driving. We were able to briefly test this, and the performance was quite reassuring. It remains to be seen whether the SUV might later be equipped with the recently unveiled BYD God’s Eye system.
Customers will also benefit from a driver monitoring system. This ensures that the driver is paying attention to the road, or else they will receive an auditory alert. This can be somewhat intrusive, and doesn’t give the driver much leeway. However, it can be disabled if it becomes bothersome.
However, you’ll need to opt for the Boost variant to get front parking sensors and a 360-degree camera.
BYD Atto 2Driving: Comfort Above All
While some manufacturers offer a range of variations for their cars, BYD does not do this with the new Atto 2. For now, it is only available in one version. It features a front motor delivering 130 kW (176 HP) and 290 Nm of torque, which is instantly available—a characteristic common to all electric vehicles, which do not have a gearbox like their internal combustion counterparts.
The SUV completes the 0 to 100 km/h sprint in 7.9 seconds, which is respectable but not particularly sporty. The top speed is limited to 160 km/h in an effort to preserve range and keep consumption in check. But more on that later. It’s worth noting that our test model features four driving modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, and also Snow. This last mode adjusts the torque management to optimize grip when it is low.
Behind the wheel of the electric SUV, comfort is a priority. The suspensions are very soft, perhaps even a bit too soft. This is ideal for smoothing out road imperfections and protecting passengers’ backs over speed bumps. However, this also comes with considerable body roll in corners. Additionally, the steering is also quite soft, which is a real advantage in the city, making maneuvers simpler. However, we would have liked it to be a bit more communicative.
The BYD Atto 2 is particularly at home in urban environments, especially as it benefits from a relatively tight turning radius. This is listed at 5.25 meters, which greatly facilitates maneuvers, including parking. It’s best to avoid overly dynamic driving with the electric SUV, which is more suited to an urban setting. However, it is also fairly well-suited for highway use, benefiting from good sound insulation. In fact, it displays a certain versatility, provided it’s not pushed too hard.
BYD Atto 2Range, Battery, and Charging
As mentioned earlier, the BYD Atto 2 is available in only one version. This applies to the motor as well as the battery. The electric SUV utilizes components already familiar from other models in the lineup, including the technical base. It is built on the e-Platform 3.0, developed internally by the Chinese manufacturer. Additionally, it also features the Blade battery designed by the firm’s approximately 110,000 engineers. This battery uses LFP (lithium iron phosphate) chemistry.
It has a capacity of 45.12 kWh, enabling the compact SUV to achieve a maximum range of 312 kilometers on a mixed cycle
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Maya Singh is a senior editor covering tablets and hybrid devices. Her work explores how these tools reshape digital productivity and learning. She also contributes to feature editorials on emerging tech.