New Delhi: BYD Atto 3 is an electric SUV and is the second launch after the e6 MPV. The Atto 3 is the first premium SUV from BYD though and targets a niche since it occupies the space between the likes of the MG ZS and the Volvo XC40 Recharge. While we have earlier written about BYD and what the company is all about, let us focus here on a short first drive of the Atto 3.
Size-wise, it is bigger than the ZS and looks premium with a simple design ethos. It is more of a crossover but one that is styled well with no fussy bits. The rear styling is the best part with the connected light bar and the way the roof gently curves in. The large badge at the rear saying 'Build your dreams' may seem like it's a motivational quote and may not be to everyone's tastes but no doubt, the rest of the car is pleasing along with being premium looking.
Size-wise, it is bigger than the ZS and looks premium with a simple design ethos. It is more of a crossover but one that is styled well with no fussy bits. The rear styling is the best part with the connected light bar and the way the roof gently curves in. The large badge at the rear saying 'Build your dreams' may seem like it's a motivational quote and may not be to everyone's tastes but no doubt, the rest of the car is pleasing along with being premium looking.
What really impresses are the interiors which scream 'funky' and would be a conversation starter for sure. The interior design is unlike anything else for sure and the quality on offer is excellent. It feels expensive here and well put together. Some of the details are quite interesting with the way the air vents are shaped or the guitar strings on the doors to the dashboard design.
Like the e6, you get a 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen that turns into a portrait or landscape mode. The touch screen itself is a big change from the e6 and feels slick to use. The feature list contains a big glass panoramic sunroof, L2 Advanced Driving Assistance System (ADAS), 7 airbags, an NFC card key, an 8-speaker audio system, PM 2.5 air filter, electrically adjustable seats, ambient lighting linked to the audio system and more. That said, for the price, ventilated seats or dual-zone climate control should have been offered. A big USP and this is seen with other more expensive SUVs, is the V2L feature which makes the Atto 3 like a large power bank as it can charge other electrical devices.
The seats are very supportive and the same goes for the ample rear space on offer though we would like to do a proper test for more.
That said, this is about a quick first drive and with the BYD Atto 3 it is all about its blade battery technology which is said to be tougher and safer than Lithium-ion battery packs. The numbers are impressive- especially the 521km range as per ARAI. The battery pack is 60.48kWh while its electric motor makes 204hp and 310Nm. It is a fairly heavy car but it does claim to go from 0-100km/h in 7.3s, which is very quick indeed.
A short drive showed that the Atto 3 is fast and has a smooth driving experience. There is no sudden spike that shocks you and instead, it builds speed smoothly. It is clearly tuned to be friendly to drive and in urban traffic conditions, it is quite relaxing and light at its feet. The size too is perfect in being not too big or small while the steering is light.
The ride is a bit firm but it feels stable while in city conditions, it feels quick and fast with controlled throttle response. In other words, it is made for everyday use. The impressive real-world range is also well above 400km while the ground clearance is ample too.
A detailed range test awaits but for now, the BYD Atto 3 has advantages with its cabin, range, and performance. It has already got 1500 bookings and while its 33.9 lakh price may seem a bit high, the range on offer and the size along with the exclusivity makes it worth it. BYD though does need to further expand its presence to reach out to more buyers along with competing with more well-known brands.
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