2024 BYD ATTO 3 Review: A Bold Newcomer

The Atto 3's exterior design adopts the now-familiar cues of the EV world – a blanked-out grille signifying the lack of a combustion engine, swept-back headlights for a modern look, and a raised ride height for SUV practicality. But don't expect head-turning aesthetics. The overall impression is inoffensive but slightly generic. It lacks the pizzazz of some rivals who've embraced a more sculpted or futuristic design language.

Step inside the Atto 3, and a surprisingly spacious cabin greets you. The design takes a sharp turn from the conservative exterior. Prepare for a unique and colourful ambience – a welcome departure from the sea of greys and blacks often found in car interiors. While some might find the playful use of colours a bit too much, it undeniably creates a vibrant and interesting atmosphere. Material quality feels good throughout, with a mix of soft-touch plastics and convincing leather-effect seats. Build quality feels solid, dispelling any concerns one might have about a new brand entering the market.

The BYD Atto 3 prioritizes a smooth and comfortable ride over sporty handling. This makes it perfectly suited for navigating city streets and tackling daily commutes. The electric motor provides adequate acceleration, pushing the car from 0 to 100 km/h in a respectable 7.3 seconds. Don't expect a thrilling driving experience, though. The steering feels well-weighted and precise for everyday driving, but it won't set your pulse racing on winding country roads.

The official range is rated at 260 miles, which is a competitive figure on paper. However, real-world driving conditions, like weather and driving style, can affect this figure. Expect a more realistic range closer to 200 miles on average. Charging speeds are decent, with support for both AC and DC fast charging. While not the fastest charger on the market, it allows for convenient top-ups at home or on the go

As a new name in the Irish car market, BYD doesn't have a long-established reputation for reliability. While the company boasts a good track record in China, its performance in the Irish climate and with Irish driving habits remains to be seen. The Atto 3 comes with a standard warranty, but only time will tell how the car performs in the long run.

One of the biggest advantages of electric car ownership is significantly lower running costs compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. The Atto 3 is no exception. Factor in the Irish government's incentives for EVs, including grants and tax breaks, and the financial benefits become even more attractive.

Public charging infrastructure in Ireland is still developing, so if you rely heavily on public chargers for your daily commute, it's worth researching the availability of charging points in your area. However, with home charging becoming increasingly accessible, the convenience factor for everyday use remains high.

As mentioned earlier, the Atto 3 prioritizes comfort over sharp handling. The suspension setup irons out bumps and imperfections in the road effectively, making it a pleasant companion for cruising around town. However, push it on twisty roads, and the car can feel a bit unsettled. The steering, while precise for everyday driving, lacks the feedback that might appeal to enthusiastic drivers who enjoy a more connected feel to the road.

The BYD Atto 3 scores highly in Euro NCAP safety tests, achieving a coveted five-star rating. This is thanks to a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that come standard on the car. These include:

This impressive array of safety features will give you peace of mind on the road, especially if you're driving with your family on board.

The 2024 BYD Atto 3 is a bold new entry in the Irish electric car market. It offers a compelling blend of practicality, space, comfort, and affordability. The unique and colourful interior design is a highlight, while the long warranty provides some assurance in terms of ownership. However, potential buyers should be aware of a few things. The exterior styling might be a bit too generic for some, and the brand's lack of long-term presence in Ireland might cause some hesitation. Additionally, while the performance is adequate for everyday driving, it won't set your pulse racing.