The BYD Dolphin will soon receive its first major update since its debut in 2021.

Photos of the 2026 BYD Dolphin have surfaced on the website of China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) months before the official unveiling. The highlight is the redesigned headlights that extend into the front fenders, somewhat reminiscent of the original Chevrolet Bolt.

Other changes at the front include a thinner plate in place of the grille and smaller bumper air intakes. The profile is mostly retained except for the new 16-inch and 17-inch wheels. At the rear, a more concise bumper design and new BYD Seal 06 GT-inspired taillight graphics can be spotted.

The dimensions of the car have increased slightly: the length is 4,280 mm (+155 mm compared to the 2021 Chinese version), width is 1,770 mm, height is 1,570 mm and wheelbase is 2,700 mm.

The BYD Dolphin 2026 will be available in its home country in three power levels: 95bhp, 177bhp and 204bhp. The least and most powerful versions match the power output of the current model, but the mid-spec electric car is a new addition to the range.

The updated Dolphin will be equipped with BYD Blade LFP battery packs. Current battery options in China include 44.93kWh and 60.48kWh units, which provide a 420km and 520km range on the CTLC cycle respectively.

Judging by the fact that BYD revealed the slightly updated Dolphin range in early 2024, the updated model is likely to hit the local market in mid to late 2025. The price of the updated hatchback is not yet known. The previous iteration of the BYD Dolphin in China is priced between ¥99,800 and ¥129,800 ($13,800-17,900).

Source: Carscoops

Евгений Ушаков
Evgenii Ushakov
15 years driving