Hyundai Inster vs BYD Dolphin Surf: The Urban EV Showdown

Electric vehicles (EVs) have revolutionized the automotive landscape, particularly in urban environments where compactness and efficiency are paramount. As we stand on the brink of a new era in sustainable transport, two offerings have emerged as strong contenders: the Hyundai Inster and the BYD Dolphin Surf. In this detailed comparison, we delve deep into their features, performance metrics, and overall value to see which compact EV deserves the throne.

A Rapidly Expanding Market

Just a year ago, the options for small electric cars were limited, leaving many potential buyers wanting. However, recent entrants in the market have brought variety to consumers, particularly in the urban sector, where easy maneuverability and efficiency are essential. Hyundai, renowned for its impressive lineup, has introduced the Inster, while BYD—newer to the UK scene—offers its Dolphin Surf.

Hyundai's reputation for building quality vehicles is solidified with its award-winning models like the Ioniq 5 and Kona Electric. The Inster, despite being smaller, brings a unique charm and character, making it a worthy participant in this head-to-head against BYD's playful Dolphin Surf.

Introducing the Hyundai Inster

Specifications and Price

Model: Hyundai Inster 02
Price: £26,755
Powertrain: 49kWh battery, 1 electric motor
Power Output: 113bhp
0-62mph: 10.6 seconds
Test Efficiency: 3.8 miles/kWh
Official Range: 223 miles
Annual Vehicle Excise Duty (VED): £195

Hyundai's Inster serves as the smallest member of their electrified family, making the electric vehicle market accessible for urban residents. It stands out with its quirky styling and compact dimensions of just 3.8 meters in length. This vehicle is tailored for families seeking a second car, offering flexibility with its pricing positioned between £23,505 and £28,755. The tested 02 trim strikes a reasonable balance between features and costs.

Interior Space and Comfort

Inside, the Inster surprises with its spaciousness. Hyundai employs clever design features reminiscent of its larger siblings, such as the Ioniq 5. The cabin utilizes a column-mounted shifter, optimizing space between the front seats for added storage areas. The sunroof and advanced driver-assistance technology found in higher trims enhance comfort and safety without stretching the budget.

Revving Up the BYD Dolphin Surf

Specifications and Price

Model: BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort
Price: £23,950
Powertrain: 43kWh battery, 1 electric motor
Power Output: 154bhp
0-62mph: 9.1 seconds
Test Efficiency: 3.9 miles/kWh
Official Range: 193 miles
Annual VED: £195

The BYD Dolphin Surf takes a different approach, labeled with an aquatic theme that reflects its name. With provocative design and an affordable entry price starting from £18,650, this compact EV aims to entice buyers looking for value. The Comfort version we tested utilizes a 43.2kWh battery and is equipped with a range of technological features, including driver-assistance systems.

Driver Assistance and Technology

The Dolphin Surf is filled with innovative features, providing standard equipment such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and traffic-sign recognition. However, the driver-monitoring system has received mixed reviews due to its sensitivity, sometimes causing distractions. Its standout feature, a rotating touchscreen, also serves as a talking point, though practicality concerns arise as most functionalities favor a landscape mode.

Performance and Handling Comparison

Both the Hyundai Inster and BYD Dolphin Surf exhibit commendable daily driver characteristics, showcasing remarkable ride comfort for compact vehicles. The Dolphin Surf exhibits impressive agility in city traffic owing to its tight turning radius, although it lacks response in steering feel compared to the more enjoyable Hyundai Inster, which provides a more engaging driving experience. Nonetheless, the BYD shines in quietness during highway journeys.

Battery and Efficiency

With a larger battery capacity, the Inster leads with a 49kWh setup, but the Dolphin Surf's potent motor delivers superior performance. The Surf’s output of 154bhp and 220Nm of torque results in quicker acceleration—9.1 seconds to reach 62mph, surpassing the Inster by a notable margin. Notably, the Dolphin Surf edges ahead on test efficiency, achieving 3.9 miles/kWh.

However, the Inster boasts a longer range, achieving 184 miles to Dolphin Surf's 168 miles on a full charge, an essential factor for urban living where such metrics define usability.

Practicality and Storage Solutions

The Hyundai Inster provides outstanding practicality through its sliding rear bench, enabling users to tailor rear space or boot volume. In the rearmost position, the Inster offers ample headroom and knee space despite a reduced 238-liter boot. Conversely, with the rear bench moved forward, boot capacity rises to 351 liters, providing versatility that the Dolphin's fixed 308-liter trunk cannot match. The Inster’s thoughtful cabin design triumphs despite its compact dimensions.

Safety Features Evaluated

Both models prioritize safety features. The Hyundai Inster presents a robust suite of driver aids in most trims, except for certain higher spec options. The vehicle earned a four-star Euro NCAP safety rating in 2025. Although the BYD Dolphin Surf has yet to undergo official testing, its parent brand BYD has consistently scored five-star ratings across multiple models, indicating a promising safety outlook for the Dolphin Surf.

Ownership Experience

In terms of customer satisfaction, Hyundai places 20th out of 31 brands, while BYD ranked 30th. Clearly, both brands have room for improvement, yet they offer competitive warranties (Hyundai five years versus BYD’s six years). Prospective buyers should consider their preferences for customer service and brand experience.

Conclusion and Recommendations

After comprehensive evaluation, the BYD Dolphin Surf emerges as the winner in this face-off, capturing the market's attention with its appealing price point, equipment, and performance balance. Although it may lack character versus the Hyundai, it conveniently caters to budget-conscious urban drivers searching for reliability and efficiency.

While the Hyundai Inster stands as a spacious and fun-to-drive alternative, its higher price tag may deter potential buyers concerned with value. Those who prioritize spaciousness, comfort, and driving experience will find much to appreciate in the Inster.

Key Specifications Recap:

Feature	Hyundai Inster 02	BYD Dolphin Surf Comfort
Price	£26,755	£23,950
Power	113bhp	154bhp
0-62mph	10.6 seconds	9.1 seconds
Range	223 miles	193 miles
Boot Capacity	238-351 liters	308 liters
Annual VED	£195	£195

Both the Hyundai Inster and BYD Dolphin Surf offer distinctive advantages tailored for urban settings, making them worthy contenders in the growing small EV market. Ultimately, your choice will depend on budget and which features resonate most with your driving needs.