Should you buy one?

Assuming the driving range offered works for you, we’d recommend you put the BYD Atto 3 on your shortlist for a test drive, without us wholeheartedly recommending it. Space inside is for the most part good while quality and equipment impresses. Given that it’s nearer the price of an EV hatch than similarly sized SUV, it’s good value, too. We do wish there was a bit more rear headroom while the driving experience isn’t going to appeal to an enthusiast.

Whichever way you cut it, BYD has given Europe’s established car manufacturers something to worry about. The Atto 3, along with the Dolphin and Seal models, represents a real step forward for the Chinese car industry in the west, offering far better quality than the cars from the only other Chinese brand to properly penetrate the market, MG.

Although it’s a fine effort, the Skoda Enyaq iV is available with more range and is more spacious, while the Renault Scenic E-Tech has come on stream to give all other makers of electric SUVs something to think about.

What we like

It’s pleasant to look at and drive, and reasonably efficient, striking a good balance between battery capacity and range. In those terms, it enters the market ahead of the established rivals from Stellantis with their 50kWh battery packs and sub-200 mile range. Yes, it’s behind big-battery versions of the Skoda Enyaq and Renault Scenic E-tech, but on the pace of their entry-level models.

What we don’t like

Although it’s competent, and doesn’t really put a foot wrong, there isn’t quite enough here to convince us to move away from a more established brand with a bigger dealer network and better warranty support. That will no doubt change, such is the pace of development of the Chinese car industry, and don’t be surprised if it gets cheaper to buy new in the coming months and years.