BYD Dolphin Gets Major Upgrades in China

Less than two years after the BYD Dolphin, it is set to get an update. With sharper styling, a tech-packed interior, and faster charging, the 2025 Dolphin is set to be better than ever. But the big question is when will Australia get its hands on the new model?

A Fresh Look for the Dolphin

First impressions matter, and BYD has ensured that the updated Dolphin stands out. The biggest changes are at the front and rear, with redesigned bumpers, sleeker headlights and tail lights, and a cleaner, more modern aesthetic.

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Gone is the bulky trim around the number plate and reflectors, giving the Dolphin a streamlined, minimalist look.

Another big change is at the back—BYD has replaced the 'Build Your Dreams' script with a simple, illuminated BYD logo, offering a more refined touch. New wheel designs in China (16- and 17-inch options) add flair to the mix.

Meanwhile, the longer front-end design, previously exclusive to Australian and European models for enhanced crash protection, is now being adopted in China. The overall length difference between the Chinese and Australian models has shrunk from 165mm to 10mm.

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Tech and Interior Upgrades

Step inside, and the Dolphin now feels more futuristic than ever. The digital instrument cluster has grown from 5.0 inches to a more practical 8.8 inches, providing clearer driving data. The 12.8-inch rotating infotainment screen remains the same size but now boasts 5G connectivity, ensuring faster updates and seamless media streaming.

BYD has also moved the gear selector from the center console to the steering column, a change already seen in the Atto 3 SUV. This adjustment frees up space for a new set of shortcut buttons, optimizing user convenience. While mostly unchanged, the steering wheel now features additional controls for an improved driving experience.

Other interior refinements include a new heated and cooled center console storage box and customizable multi-color ambient lighting on the dashboard—small touches that elevate the Dolphin’s appeal.

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Smarter, Faster, and More Efficient

BYD’s latest ‘God’s Eye’ advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) is a standout addition. Featuring 29 sensors—including 12 cameras, 12 ultrasonic sensors, and five millimeter-wave radars—the system promises enhanced safety and semi-autonomous driving capabilities. Three front-facing cameras and multiple long-range sensors work together to improve collision prevention and adaptive cruise control.

Under the hood, the Dolphin now offers a third motor option: a mid-grade 130kW/290Nm motor, slotting between the existing 70kW/180Nm and 150kW/310Nm variants. While Australian specifications have yet to be confirmed, this new option could offer a compelling blend of efficiency and power.

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Battery and charging improvements are where the Dolphin really shines. The entry-level 45kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery can now handle 80kW DC charging (up from 60kW), while the larger 60.5kWh battery has jumped from 80kW to 110kW. That means charging from 30% to 80% now takes just 25—five minutes quicker than before.

A new heat pump, 15% smaller and 10% more efficient than the previous model, enhances energy management, especially in colder conditions. However, despite these improvements, BYD’s Chinese website lists no changes to range figures: 420km on the CLTC cycle for the base 70kW variant, 410km for the new 130kW motor, and 520km for the 150kW version.

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When Will It Arrive in Australia?

That’s the million-dollar question. Australian BYD representatives have previously stated that it can take 12 to 24 months for right-hand-drive models to be developed and launched locally. Since the Dolphin Essential variant was only recently introduced as a budget-friendly option, the current pre-facelift model will likely remain on sale for some time.

Given this timeline, Australians may not see the updated Dolphin until 2026. When it arrives, expect a price increase from the current $29,990 before on-road costs.

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