What to Expect from the 2026 Atto 2 DM-i Plug-in Hybrid
BYD’s clearly not slowing down in the UK – the Atto 2 DM-i joins the electric-only Boost and Comfort versions. This hybrid version’s arriving after the ev only models, giving us a practical option for city life where you can drive on electric power most days, but still have a petrol engine on board for longer treks.
Looks like we’ll have two versions to pick from, matching the electric ones with 174bhp and 201bhp outputs. Expect 0–62mph in around 7.9 seconds. Engine and battery tech details are still hush-hush, but we know the electric range is a decent 56 miles—more than enough for most people commuting to and from work with a few errands in between.
Key Features and Technology
Tech-wise, the hybrid gets the same gear as the EV—so we’re talking a 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen, voice commands that actually listen, wireless phone charging, an 8-speaker setup, and even the ability to power other gadgets directly from the car (that’s the V2L bit).
Under the skin, both versions sit on BYD’s new e-Platform and come with their Blade Battery, which is part of the structure itself thanks to something called cell-to-body tech. Translation: it helps make the car sturdier and safer, and saves space inside.
You’ll spot the DM-i easily—it’s got a tweaked front grille to help cool the engine and comes in a new Midnight Blue colour too.
Range and Efficiency for City Use
That 56-mile all-electric range isn’t just for show—it means for loads of folks, you’ll be driving around town emission-free most of the time. In London, this should mean exemptions from the Congestion Charge and ULEZ, which is handy for city drivers who don’t want to shell out just to get across town.
Pricing and Launch Timing
We don’t know exactly how much it’ll cost just yet, but going off the EV versions—£30,850 for the Boost and £34,950 for the Comfort—we’re probably looking at somewhere between £31,000 and £35,000 for the hybrid.
There aren’t any government plug-in grants to help out anymore, but BYD does chuck in five years of free servicing on some of their models, including this one, which isn’t bad for keeping running costs down. First-year road tax perks also kick in if your electric-only range is high enough, which the Atto 2 DM-i should qualify for.
Competitive Edge: Compact Yet Capable
At 4.3 metres long, it’s going to be the dinkiest plug-in hybrid SUV you can buy in the UK. But don’t let the size fool you—its tech, long EV range, and that fancy battery setup help it stand out. Plus, BYD’s planning to expand from 75 to 90 UK dealerships by next September, so finding one—or getting it serviced—should be a bit easier when the time comes.
When Can Buyers Expect the Atto 2 DM-i?
So, the electric versions of the Atto 2 is here already, and the plug-in hybrid DM-i model follows sometime in 2026. We’ll get more details on specs, trims, and pricing as we inch closer.
If you’re after a small PHEV SUV that fits in with city life, gives you decent electric-only driving, and doesn’t cost the earth, the Atto 2 DM-i could definitely be worth a look when it arrives.
