BYD Dolphin vs MG4: which electric compact to choose in 2025?
Why are the BYD Dolphin and MG4 direct competitors?
La BYD Dolphin and the MG4 will be two of the most attractive electric compact cars on the market in 2025, combining performance, autonomy and value for money. These two Chinese models are aimed at the same public in search of an accessible and versatile electric car, ideal for both city driving and long journeys.
With modern designs, advanced on-board technologies and batteries offering competitive range, they are positioned as serious alternatives to European models. Which one to choose? It all depends on your criteria: the BYD Dolphin relies on its comfort and efficiency, while the MG4 impresses with its dynamism and driving pleasure.
BYD Dolphin vs MG4: which offers the best performance and the longest range?
Which engine and which power between the BYD Dolphin and the MG4?
La BYD Dolphin and the MG4 offer high-performance electric motors to suit different needs. The Dolphin Premium is powered by a 150 kW (204 hp) motor with 310 Nm of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7 seconds. In comparison, the MG4 Long Range has a 201 bhp (150 kW) motor and slightly less torque, but its XPower version reaches impressive levels with 429 bhp thanks to two motors and all-wheel drive.
These configurations show that the MG4 offers more powerful options for performance enthusiasts, while the Dolphin focuses on agile, well-balanced driving.
BYD Dolphin vs MG4: which has the best range for daily commutes and long journeys?
In terms of range, the MG4 Extended Range offers up to 323 miles (around 520 km), surpassing the 427 km WLTP of the BYD Dolphin Premium. However, in real-world conditions, the Dolphin tends to be closer to its claimed range thanks to its superior fuel efficiency. This makes it an interesting choice for urban and suburban journeys. For long-distance journeys, the MG4 remains more suitable thanks to its battery (64 kWh compared with 60 kWh) and extended range.
Recharging time and compatibility with fast-charging stations: which model is most practical?
The MG4 stands out for its compatibility with fast charging stations of up to 140 kW, allowing 10 to 80 % to be recharged in just 26 to 35 minutes, depending on the model. The BYD Dolphin Premium, on the other hand, reaches a peak charge of 88 kW, requiring around 30 minutes for a similar charge.
Although the difference is minimal in terms of time, the MG4's fast-charging capability offers added convenience for long journeys. Both models use Type 2 CCS connectors, guaranteeing compatibility with most European infrastructures.
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Design and interior: which is more comfortable, the BYD Dolphin or the MG4?
What are the design choices and finishes of the two electric compacts?
The BYD Dolphin is distinguished by its bold, marine-inspired design, with flowing lines and bright colours that reflect its playful character. It is available in a number of trim levels, including Active, Boost, Comfort and Design, offering a wide range of equipment from entry-level models onwards, such as a 12.8-inch rotary screen and heated synthetic leather seats.
In contrast, the MG4 adopts a more dynamic, modern style with details such as its distinctive LED lights and a varied colour palette including Brighton Blue and Fizzy Orange. Its trims include SE, Trophy and XPower, each of which brings specific equipment such as an advanced multimedia system and alloy wheels.
BYD Dolphin vs MG4: which car offers the most interior space and boot space?
The BYD Dolphin offers generous interior space thanks to its completely flat floor and relatively long wheelbase. In the rear, passengers enjoy good legroom, while the boot has a capacity of 345 litres, extendable to 1,310 litres with the seats folded down. The MG4 is slightly more spacious, with a boot capacity of 363 litres (1,177 litres with seats folded), but its cabin is less airy due to its reduced vertical dimensions.
However, it can accommodate three adults in the rear, thanks to a design optimised to maximise cabin space. As a result, the Dolphin focuses on interior comfort for rear passengers, while the MG4 offers a slight advantage when it comes to transporting bulky objects.
Which model offers the best driving comfort and the most effective soundproofing?
The BYD Dolphin boasts innovations such as a motorised 12.8-inch swivelling screen, a first in its class, which can be used in portrait or landscape mode, depending on the driver's preference. It also incorporates modern features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a dedicated mobile app for controlling certain functions remotely. However, certain aspects, such as the absence of a native route planner, limit its technological potential.
The MG4, meanwhile, is based on an advanced electric platform with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive on the XPower version. It offers superior driving aids (blind spot detection, lane change assist) and rapid recharging up to 140 kW, surpassing the Dolphin in practicality for long journeys. In terms of overall innovation, the MG4 seems to offer solutions better suited to European needs.
What driving assistance systems are available on each model?
The BYD Dolphin offers conventional driving aids such as lane keeping, adaptive cruise control and autonomous emergency braking. However, these systems suffer from inaccurate calibrations that can make them uncomfortable or even dangerous to use in certain situations (particularly on narrow roads). A software update is planned to correct these problems.
The MG4 offers a more comprehensive and better calibrated range of driving aids. In addition to the standard functions (autonomous braking, adaptive cruise control), it includes advanced options such as lane change assist and rear cross-traffic detection. Overall, these systems are better adapted to European infrastructures and offer a more reassuring experience for the driver.
Infotainment and connectivity: BYD Dolphin vs MG4, which offers the best digital experience?
The BYD Dolphin features an Android-based infotainment system with a 12.8-inch swivelling central screen. It includes integrated Spotify, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. However, the ergonomics of its interface have been criticised for being unintuitive. In addition, the lack of a native route planner is a notable shortcoming for complex journeys.
The MG4 offers a smoother digital experience with a modern touchscreen and a well thought-out interface. It also includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but stands out for its integrated route planner and advanced features for optimising electric journeys. Overall, the system is judged to be more user-friendly and better adapted to the needs of European drivers.
Price and value for money: BYD Dolphin vs MG4, which model is more cost-effective?
What is the starting price and what versions are available for the BYD Dolphin and MG4?
The BYD Dolphin is available in France from 28,990 € excluding environmental bonus for the Active trim level. It is available in four versions: Active, Boost, Comfort and Design. Higher trim levels, such as Design, include premium equipment such as a panoramic roof and tricolour alloy wheels, with a price tag of up to 35 990 € for the best-equipped version.
MG4 starts at 29,990 € excluding environmental bonus for the Standard version with a 51 kWh (170 bhp) battery. It is also available in several versions: Comfort, Luxury and XPower. The top-of-the-range models, such as the Luxury with a 64 kWh (204 bhp) battery, are priced similarly to the Dolphin Design, at 35 990 €The sportier XPower version is available at a higher price, thanks to its enhanced performance.
What equipment is included as standard and as an option on each model?
| Category | BYD Dolphin | MG4 |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment | 12.8" rotating touchscreen (standard on Design), Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, 6-speaker audio system | 10.25" touchscreen, 7" digital dashboard, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto (standard) |
| Interior comfort | Heated and electric front seats, vegetable leather, height-adjustable steering wheel | Heated front seats (Luxury), heated steering wheel (Luxury), electric driver's seat (Luxury) |
| Security | Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), blind spot detection, adaptive cruise control, driver fatigue management | Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning (FCW), 360° cameras (Luxury) |
| Exterior | 17" two-tone alloy wheels, panoramic roof (Design), automatic LED headlights | 17" (Standard) or 18" (Luxury) alloy wheels, rear light strip (Luxury) |
| Additional options | Tinted rear windows, 360° camera (Design) | Heat pump, integrated route planner (Luxury), rear cross-traffic alert |
Comparison table: BYD Dolphin vs MG4, summary of differences
| Features | BYD Dolphin | MG4 |
|---|---|---|
| Motorisation | 150 kW (204 bhp) engine | Engine from 125 kW (170 hp) to 320 kW (429 hp) XPower |
| Range (WLTP) | Up to 427 km | Up to 450 km (Extended Range) |
| Fast recharge | Up to 88 kW | Up to 140 kW |
| Design | Inspired by marine aesthetics, bright colours | Dynamic and modern, with distinctive LED details |
| Interior space | Rear legroom, flat floor | Slightly larger boot, less airy cabin |
| Boot volume | 345 litres (1310 litres with seats folded down) | 363 litres (1177 litres with seats folded) |
| Comfort/Insolation | Comfortable, soft suspension, good soundproofing | Dynamic driving, soundproofing varies according to version |
| Innovations | 12.8" rotating screen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay | Advanced electric platform, advanced driving aids |
| Driving aids | Classics, sometimes inaccurate calibration | Complete and better calibrated |
| Infotainment | 12.8" screen, criticised interface, no planner | Intuitive interface, integrated route planner |
| Starting price | 28,990 (excluding bonus) | 29,990 (excluding bonus) |
Conclusion: which electric compact is right for you?
In conclusion, the choice between the BYD Dolphin and the MG4 will depend on your priorities. If you prefer comfort, original design and a spacious interior, the Dolphin could be the ideal choice. It offers a smooth driving experience and generous equipment right from the base trim level. If, on the other hand, you're looking for a more dynamic car with a longer range, fast charging and an intuitive infotainment system, the MG4 will prove more suitable. Its precise handling and advanced driving aids make it a versatile choice for city driving and long journeys.
By 2025, these two electric compacts are excellent alternatives to traditional models, offering excellent value for money and respectable performance. Whether you're interested in buying a compact electric car or installing a home charging point, don't hesitate to call on Beev to help you make the transition to electric mobility.
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