BYD ATTO 2 DM-i Essential

The BYD ATTO 2 DM-i Essential is a compact SUV built around BYD's DM-i 4.0 plug-in hybrid system, combining a petrol engine with electric driving capability. Its appeal lies in the flexibility of a hybrid powertrain: the vehicle can provide an electric driving range of up to 40km under WLTP testing while retaining a claimed combined range of up to 845km for longer journeys.

At the heart of the Essential is BYD's Xiaoyun 1.5-litre high-efficiency engine and a 7.85kWh Blade Battery. The battery technology is a defining part of the vehicle's engineering, while the hybrid system is designed to balance electric operation and petrol assistance according to the driving conditions. A claimed WLTP fuel consumption figure of 1.8L/100km applies when the vehicle has sufficient state of charge, making the specification particularly relevant to drivers who can regularly make use of the battery's electric capability.

The powertrain produces maximum figures of 122kW and 300Nm, with drive sent to the front wheels. That front-drive layout is a familiar choice for a compact SUV and keeps the mechanical specification straightforward. The vehicle also includes Vehicle-to-Load functionality, allowing the battery system to supply power to compatible external equipment when required.

Inside, the Essential uses a black interior and features a 10.1-inch intelligent infotainment touchscreen. The cabin specification is focused on providing a clear, technology-led interface without relying on an unnecessarily complex presentation. For everyday use, the combination of a compact SUV body style, touchscreen connectivity and plug-in hybrid operation gives the ATTO 2 DM-i a broad range of potential uses, from routine urban driving to longer trips where the petrol engine and larger combined range become useful.

This configured example is finished in Ski White paint and rides on standard 16-inch alloy wheels. The restrained exterior colour and conventional alloy design give the vehicle a clean, approachable appearance, while the compact SUV proportions aim to combine a manageable footprint with the practical shape expected from this class of vehicle.

• DM-i 4.0 Super Hybrid Technology
• 7.85kWh BYD Blade Battery
• Up to 40km electric range and up to 845km combined range, WLTP
• 1.5-litre high-efficiency engine
• 122kW maximum power and 300Nm maximum torque
• Front-wheel drive
• Vehicle-to-Load functionality
• 10.1-inch intelligent infotainment touchscreen
• Ski White exterior with black interior
• 16-inch alloy wheels

Other highlights include Condition: New; Powertrain: PHEV.