BYD Atto 2 51.1 kWh

Overview

BYD is crashing the European party with the Atto 2, a compact electric SUV that's all about big value. This 51.1 kWh model aims to shake up the segment, packing BYD's clever Blade Battery tech into a stylish, family-friendly package. With an anticipated starting price of €31,990, it’s squaring up against established rivals by offering a compelling mix of practicality and modern tech. It’s designed to be the go-to choice for first-time EV buyers who don't want to compromise on quality or features. This could be a proper game-changer.

What's New for 2025?

For 2025, the Atto 2 is brand-spanking new to the European scene, so everything is fresh out of the box. It marks BYD’s aggressive push into the more affordable compact SUV segment, slotting in below the popular Atto 3. Built on BYD's latest e-Platform 3.0, it brings the brand's signature tech, like the cobalt-free Blade Battery and efficient powertrain, to a new, more accessible price point. Think of it as a completely new contender, not an update, designed from the ground up to challenge Europe's best-sellers.

Design & Exterior

The Atto 2 sports BYD's 'Ocean Aesthetics' design language, looking like a slightly smaller, funkier sibling to the Atto 3. It's a handsome little thing, with sharp LED light bars, a clean profile, and rugged plastic cladding giving it a proper SUV stance. It’s not a massive beast, measuring 4,310 mm long, 1,830 mm wide, and 1,675 mm tall, making it perfect for zipping around tight city streets and squeezing into small parking spots. The design is modern and confident, ensuring it won't get lost in a crowded car park.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Inside, the Atto 2 continues BYD’s trend of quirky but high-quality cabins. You’re greeted by the massive, rotating central infotainment screen, a signature party trick that handles everything from navigation to media. It’s packed with tech, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For a compact SUV, passenger space is surprisingly generous for five. Luggage room is solid too, with 400 litres in the boot, expanding to a very useful 1,340 litres with the rear seats folded down. Sadly, there's no frunk for stashing your charge cables.

Performance & Driving Experience

Don't let its sensible price tag fool you; the Atto 2 has a bit of poke. Its single Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor sends a healthy 130 kW and 290 Nm of torque to the front wheels. That’s enough to hustle it from 0-100 km/h in a respectable 7.9 seconds, making it feel nippy and responsive around town. As a front-wheel-drive setup, it prioritizes efficiency and easy-going handling over outright sportiness. Expect a comfortable, quiet ride perfect for daily commuting, with smooth power delivery and effective regenerative braking.

Range, Battery & Charging

The Atto 2 is powered by a 45.1 kWh usable Blade Battery, which Green Cars Compare estimates will deliver a real-world range of around 265 km. Its efficiency is a tidy 5.88 km/kWh, helping you squeeze the most out of every charge. When it’s time to plug in, the standard CCS Type 2 port handles both AC and DC charging. At home on an 11 kW wallbox, a full charge takes around 4-5 hours. On the road, it can pull a maximum of 65 kW from a DC fast charger.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

While it awaits its official Euro NCAP rating, the Atto 2 is expected to come well-equipped with safety kit, leveraging the strong performance of its siblings. Expect a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assistance features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and traffic sign recognition. Higher trims will likely add goodies like adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality and a 360-degree camera system. BYD typically doesn't skimp on safety, so this should prove to be a secure family runabout, packed with the latest protective tech.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

BYD offers a competitive warranty package in Europe, giving owners solid peace of mind. Expect a comprehensive vehicle warranty, typically lasting for 6 years or 150,000 km, which is a cut above many rivals. The crucial Blade Battery gets an even longer guarantee, usually 8 years or 200,000 km, with a promise to retain at least 70% of its original capacity. While complimentary maintenance isn't standard, BYD's reputation for building reliable EVs means running costs should be predictably low, making it an attractive long-term proposition.