This is a comprehensive comparison of the specs and features of Australia's most affordable electric cars, the BYD Dolphin and MG 4 electric hatchbacks. This comparison focuses on the most comparable base variants of each model:
Price and Incentives
The Dolphin and the MG4 are similarly priced.
Only $100 separates the base model variants of the BYD Dolphin and MG 4. Both will be eligible for state government incentives and the FBT exemption for electric vehicles.
Both vehicles either match or are priced lower than traditional petrol-engined small cars, including the top-spec Toyota Corolla ZR Hybrid ($38,120), Mazda 3 G25 Astina ($42,320), and Hyundai i30 Hatch N-Line Premium ($37,300).
For an estimated driveaway price and total cost of ownership - use the zecar cost of ownership calculator.
Size and Dimensions
The Dolphin and MG4 are similar in size.
Both EVs are considered to be practical. They are both built on a dedicated EV platform which allows for greater interior space relative to the external footprint. They would be in the same class as popular hatchbacks such as the Toyota Corolla, Mazda 3 and Hyundai i30.
The BYD Dolphin and MG 4 are similar in size. The Dolphin is slightly taller, however, the MG 4 is wider. Boot space is very similar.
The BYD Dolphin weighs 152 kg less than the MG 4, likely the main reason for its superior claimed energy efficiency.
Range and Performance
The MG4 and Dolphin have comparable driving range. The MG offers substantially faster acceleration.
On paper, the MG 4 offers slightly more range, however, it is less efficient than the BYD Dolphin, likely due to being 150 kg heavier. The more powerful motor of the MG 4 results in significantly faster acceleration compared to the BYD Dolphin Dynamic.
Battery and Charging
The MG4 offers faster DC charging speeds than the Dolphin.
The MG 4 offers faster DC charging than the BYD Dolphin. The single phase on-board charger of both models offer pedestrian AC charging rates of 6.6 kW to 7 kW.
Calculate your personal charging costs and times for each model using this calculator.
Driver Technology
The MG4 and Dolphin offer similar levels of driver assist technology and features.
The BYD Dolphin and MG 4 offer similar levels of driver-assist technology features. The BYD Dolphin however offers a larger screen and higher resolution camera system.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Dolphin features a superior infotainment offering compared to the MG4.
The BYD Dolphin is considered to have a superior infotainment and connectivity offering highlighted by its sharp 12.3 inch centre screen, snappy user-friendly interface and high quality sound system.
Both feature Android Auto and Apple Carplay.
Other Features
The Dolphin comes with a panoramic glass roof as standard. The MG4 provides a sunroof as an option.
Warranty and Servicing
The MG4 has a stronger vehicle and battery warranty compared to the Dolphin.
The MG 4 offers a slightly longer vehicle warranty however the BYD Dolphin offers a slightly longer battery warranty based on number of years.
About the author
Danny Thai
Danny is a consultant and entrepreneur working at the cutting edge of the electric vehicle and energy transition. He is passionate about educating and helping consumers make better decisions through data. He is the founder of zecar and is currently the EV Innovation Manager at Endeavour Energy.
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