BYD Atto 3 Evo: More Power, Less Engagement

The BYD Atto 3 electric vehicle has undergone a significant transformation, now dubbed the "Evo" model, boasting substantial upgrades in performance and interior comfort. While the exterior remains largely unchanged, subtle modifications include revised front air intakes, side sills, and a simplified rear "BYD" badging.

“

Hardly anyone who has driven the BYD Atto 3 has thought: 'Hmm, it's pretty good but the car would need 449 horsepower so that it can go from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds'.

Inside, the Atto 3 Evo presents a more welcoming environment. The bulky gear selector has been replaced by a sleek, user-friendly lever positioned on the steering column. New seats with adjustable headrests and a redesigned steering wheel enhance the cabin experience. However, design elements like the door handles and air vents retain their distinctive, albeit polarizing, "free weight" inspired aesthetics.

“

On the outside, it is difficult, almost impossible, to see that it is an updated and redesigned model we have gotten hold of for the test drive.

Finding the start button can be a minor challenge, as it's discreetly located behind the cup holders. Once initiated, the Evo model demonstrates impressive acceleration. The base model now produces 308 horsepower, up from 204, with a rear-mounted motor. The top-tier Excellence version adds a front motor for a combined output of 449 horsepower, enabling a 0-100 km/h sprint in just 3.9 seconds and offering strong stability at high speeds.

“

The terribly ugly and unnecessarily large gear selector that took up a lot of space on the center console is now gone and replaced by a simple and smooth lever on the right side of the steering column. Much better!

Despite the power surge, the driving experience fails to captivate. The steering lacks feedback, the chassis can feel stiff, and the accelerator mapping is overly sensitive. The all-wheel-drive system, while capable on paper, does not translate into an engaging driving experience. Similarly, charging capabilities have been enhanced with an 800-volt system, allowing for a 10-80% charge in approximately 25 minutes, up from the previous 400-volt system's 88 kW to a new maximum of 220 kW.

“

Despite the power surge, the driving experience fails to captivate. The steering lacks feedback, the chassis can feel stiff, and the accelerator mapping is overly sensitive.