• One power output available
• Front-wheel drive, sprightly acceleration
• Overall, a relaxed performer

What power options are there?

The Atto 3 is based on BYD’s latest pure-electric platform and powered by a 60.5kWh battery pack which is good for an official maximum range of 260 miles. That’s around 20 miles less than you get from the Megane E-Tech and the Niro EV, but it should still be more than enough for most owners’ needs.

The battery sends power to a 204hp electric motor mounted on the front axle. It performs well – the Atto 3 is noticeably faster than the equivalent Skoda Enyaq or Volkswagen ID.4, with a 0–62mph time of 7.3 seconds and feels it. Top speed is capped at 99mph, which average for the sector.

After a brief hesitation it accelerates with conviction up to the national speed limit, with enough power to clumsily trigger the traction control if you’re not careful. It’s not as sporty feeling as an MG4 EV or Cupra Born, with a more effortless power delivery that suits its relaxed driving experience.

What’s it like to drive?

• Biased towards ride comfort
• Excellent brakes
• Lack of steering feel

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What’s it like to drive?

BYD has made the Atto 3’s suspension quite soft, so there’s a noticeable amount of body roll in the corners. But that’s not such a bad thing in car primarily designed to work as family transport. Grip levels are more than acceptable and the handling doesn’t seem to have any nasty vices. It’s not something you’ll yearn to drive, but it’s also perfectly agreeable when you’re being sensible.

The brakes deserve some recognition. They’re very strong and BYD has ironed out the transition from regenerative braking to friction braking well. Unlike some cars in this class, there’s no step in the changeover. On the other hand, the steering feels a bit numb around the straight ahead but is precise enough when you start cornering. Rivals such as the Enyaq are better here, but no electric SUV generates a great deal of feedback.

That’s partially because the Atto 3 is one of the comfier electric SUVs at this price point. You do hear the suspension thumping and thudding away over ridges and potholes, but the noise is almost always more severe than the shock felt. Only a slight sensation of your head rocking around as you pass over undulating roads might annoy some, but it’s gentle enough not to be too bothersome for us.

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