BYD Atto 2: SA launch date confirmed

BYD has announced when the Atto 2 DM-i will launch in South Africa. Here’s what we know about the SA-bound new-energy compact crossover/SUV…

Image: BYD

As we highlighted in Every Chinese car confirmed for SA in 2026, the BYD Atto 2 is set to be introduced to our market this year. Now, the Chinese automaker’s local arm has confirmed when the new-energy compact crossover will arrive on our shores.

While the Atto 2 is also available in all-electric format in overseas markets, the local lineup will employ BYD’s DM-i (Dual Mode intelligent) powertrain. The petrol-electric setup comprises a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder internal combustion engine (ICE) and a single permanent magnet synchronous electric motor – the latter fed by either a 7.8 or 18 kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery. Equipped with the former, the Atto 2 produces 122 kW and 300 N.m of torque, while the model featuring the larger Blade Battery is endowed with a combined power output of 156 kW, with torque remaining unchanged. Power is delivered to the road through the front wheels. BYD claims the 7.8 and 18 kWh models offer electric-only operating ranges of 40 and 90 km, respectively, and combined driving ranges of 930 and 1 000 km.

Based on BYD’s e-Platform 3.0 underpinnings, the Atto 2 measures 4 310 mm in length and 1 830 mm in width – making it 145 mm shorter and 45 mm narrower than the Atto 3 – and 1 675 mm in height. The Atto 2’s wheelbase spans 2 620 mm.

Outside, the Atto 2 DM-i features LED head- and taillamps. Stepping inside, the interior plays host to a rotating central infotainment screen, which transitions from portrait to landscape orientation at the touch of a button. A digital driver’s display is also present. A diamond-cut drive selector is surrounded by analogue switchgear for operating essential functions.

BYD Atto 2 DM-i SA launch date

BYD has confirmed the Atto 2 DM-i will launch in SA on 10 June 2026. Local pricing and specifications will be revealed at launch. The BYD will rival the likes of the Toyota Corolla Cross HEV, Chery Tiggo Cross CSH and Jaecoo J5 HEV.

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