SYDNEY: The new 2026 BYD Atto 2 DM-i plug-in hybrid (PHEV) has been launched in Australia in two grades - Essential and the more powerful Premium.
Billed as Australia's most affordable PHEV, the Atto 2 DM-i combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor that deliver a combined maximum output of 122kW (166PS) in Essential grade and 156kW (212PS) in Premium specification.
Both grades enjoy a robust 300Nm of torque for strong acceleration.
BYD’s acclaimed Blade battery uses Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) chemistry, which is inherently more thermally stable than nickel-based batteries, and far less prone to thermal runaway, the chain reaction that can lead to battery fires.
The Essential grade uses a 7.85kWh Blade battery that offers 39km of pure electric driving (WLTP).
The Premium grade has a 18.03kWh unit good for 90km of EV (electric vehicle) mobility (WLTP).
Combined WLTP range is rated at 845km for Essential and 895km for Premium.
Both Essential and Premium have a 3.3kW on-board AC charging port which can provide a full charge (from 15% SoC to 100%) in 2.7 hours and 6.1 hours respectively.
The Atto 2 DM-i variants are offered exclusively in front-wheel drive, with the Super Hybrid power unit automatically transitioning between three intelligent operating modes.
All Atto 2s offer a MacPherson strut front suspension and a rear torsion bar, tuned to help reduce brake dive and acceleration pitch.
A compact 2,620mm wheelbase and short overhangs provide further stability.
The Atto 2’s Intelligent Power Braking System (IPB) integrates key braking and active safety functions to support safer everyday driving.
The IPB system also supports faster brake pressure build-up and more consistent braking: just 36.72 metres required to bring the Atto 2 to a complete stop from 100kph in an emergency braking situation.
This strong braking performance is coupled with active dynamic driving aids such as Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).
In addition to AEB and ACC, standard features include Blind Spot Detection (BSD), forward and rear collision warning, Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Hill Descent Control (HDC), Lane Departure Assist (LDA), Adaptive Front Lighting and 360-degree camera.
The Atto 2 DM-i keeps BYD's latest Dragon Face design language, while signature Chinese Knot tail lights adds trademark BYD visual recognition.
In the cabin, there is a 8.8-inch LCD instrument display, supported by a 10.1-inch central touchscreen on the DM-i Essential and 12.8-inch interface on the Premium.
Both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are supported with both wireless and cabled connection, with a USB-A and a USB-C port available to front and rear seat occupants.
60:40 split fold rear seats provides cargo carrying flexibility, with stowage capacity of 425 litres with the seats up and 1,335 litres with backrests folded.
Premium grade adds synthetic leather seats with six-way power adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, ambient lighting, six-speaker sound system and 50W wireless smartphone charger with cooling.
