Likes
- Offers great value for money on the used market.
- One of the more enjoyable EV’s to actually operate.
- Great range of tech and features.
- Build quality and reliability exceeds expectations.
Used BYD Atto 3 review
2022 - 2022
Dislikes
- After sales support and quality servicing can be a concern.
- EV’s depreciation and insurance costs can be off-putting.
- Interior design not for everyone.
- Australia’s charging infrastructure leaves much to be desired.
Stuff you should know
- The BYD Atto 3, a small crossover SUV, has established itself as one of Australia’s most affordable electric passenger cars. Thanks to aggressive EV depreciation, it now seems to offer exceptional value on the used car market.
- Known as the Yuan Plus in China, the Atto 3 is available in two variants: the Standard Range and the Extended Range. Both versions feature a front-wheel-drive layout powered by a single electric motor producing 150 kW (201 hp) and 310 Nm (229 lb-ft) of torque. The key difference between the two lies in battery capacity: the Standard Range is equipped with a 50 kWh battery, while the Extended Range features a larger 60 kWh battery, offering increased driving range.
- However, many owners have raised concerns about the accuracy of the vehicle’s WLTP-rated range. These figures tend to be overly optimistic, a common issue not limited to BYD, but a challenge for EV manufacturers globally. Real-world range is often lower due to various factors like driving style, weather conditions, and terrain, which should be considered by potential buyers.
- The Atto 3 comes exceptionally well-equipped for its price point. A mid-cycle update in 2024 introduced subtle styling tweaks, a refreshed interior colour palette, and upgraded technology and equipment. These updates help the Atto 3 remain competitive in Australia’s growing EV market.
- Despite its attractive features and value for money offerings, there is significant debate surrounding used EVs and Chinese-manufactured vehicles, which often face criticism for their perceived lack of build quality and reliability. But is there truth to these claims? Read on to find out.
What goes wrong
Exterior
- According to owners and businesses using the BYD Atto 3 for ride-sharing or as taxis, the exterior is generally trouble-free.
- There are occasional reports of minor electrical glitches, such as lights behaving erratically. These issues are rare and often resolve themselves after restarting the car or through over-the-air (OTA) software updates, making them more of an inconvenience than a serious concern.
- Some owners have noted that the exterior panels are relatively thin, possibly a design choice by BYD to reduce weight, as EVs are typically heavier than their ICE counterparts. However, this can make the panels more prone to denting. Additionally, spare parts for repairs can be challenging to source, leading to extended waiting times after accidents.
- A unique design feature is the low door edges, which can make parking on inclines tricky as the doors may be harder to open. On the positive side, this design keeps dirt and grime off the sills, helping to keep clothing clean when entering or exiting the vehicle.
- Owners have also pointed out that the boot release and rearview camera are positioned very low, making them susceptible to dirt accumulation, especially after driving on wet or dusty roads.
- One of the most significant complaints about pre-2024 models is the factory-fitted Atlas Batman tires. Many owners reported poor traction, particularly in wet conditions, describing the car as feeling “under-tyred.” Thankfully, BYD addressed this issue in the 2024 update by replacing the Atlas Batman tires with Continental tires, offering better grip and overall performance.
Interior
- The Atto 3’s interior receives praise for its design, but some ergonomic issues have been reported. For instance, the fixed headrests can be uncomfortable for certain body types, pushing the head too far forward. Many owners have resorted to using lumbar support cushions to alleviate discomfort.
- On extremely hot days, the air conditioning system can struggle to maintain optimal cooling, even when using the pre-conditioning feature via the app. This allows users to remotely activate the air conditioning or lower the windows before entering the car.
- Some owners have experienced software glitches affecting features like the boot lock button, steering wheel controls, or sunroof operation. However, these issues are typically resolved with a system restart or through OTA software updates.
- A recurring issue with some 2022 models involved the “N” peeling off the gear shifter, with reports of the sharp edges causing minor cuts. This issue has largely been resolved under warranty.
- The wireless charging pad has been described as inconsistent, with some owners reporting that it occasionally fails to charge devices properly. Additionally, it’s advised to turn off the wireless charging pad
Exterior
- According to owners and businesses using the BYD Atto 3 for ride-sharing or as taxis, the exterior is generally trouble-free.
- There are occasional reports of minor electrical glitches, such as lights behaving erratically. These issues are rare and often resolve themselves after restarting the car or through over-the-air (OTA) software updates, making them more of an inconvenience than a serious concern.
- Some owners have noted that the exterior panels are relatively thin, possibly a design choice by BYD to reduce weight, as EVs are typically heavier than their ICE counterparts. However, this can make the panels more prone to denting. Additionally, spare parts for repairs can be challenging to source, leading to extended waiting times after accidents.
- A unique design feature is the low door edges, which can make parking on inclines tricky as the doors may be harder to open. On the positive side, this design keeps dirt and grime off the sills, helping to keep clothing clean when entering or exiting the vehicle.
- Owners have also pointed out that the boot release and rearview camera are positioned very low, making them susceptible to dirt accumulation, especially after driving on wet or dusty roads.
- One of the most significant complaints about pre-2024 models is the factory-fitted Atlas Batman tires. Many owners reported poor traction, particularly in wet conditions, describing the car as feeling “under-tyred.” Thankfully, BYD addressed this issue in the 2024 update by replacing the Atlas Batman tires with Continental tires, offering better grip and overall performance.
Interior
- The Atto 3’s interior receives praise for its design, but some ergonomic issues have been reported. For instance, the fixed headrests can be uncomfortable for certain body types, pushing the head too far forward. Many owners have resorted to using lumbar support cushions to alleviate discomfort.
- On extremely hot days, the air conditioning system can struggle to maintain optimal cooling, even when using the pre-conditioning feature via the app. This allows users to remotely activate the air conditioning or lower the windows before entering the car.
- Some owners have experienced software glitches affecting features like the boot lock button, steering wheel controls, or sunroof operation. However, these issues are typically resolved with a system restart or through OTA software updates.
- A recurring issue with some 2022 models involved the “N” peeling off the gear shifter, with reports of the sharp edges causing minor cuts. This issue has largely been resolved under warranty.
- The wireless charging pad has been described as inconsistent, with some owners reporting that it occasionally fails to charge devices properly. Additionally, it’s advised to turn off the wireless charging pad when not in use, as the electromagnetic field can interfere with credit cards if stored nearby.
- Some owners have expressed disappointment about the absence of features they expect at this price point, such as automatic wipers and keyless entry for the passenger side.
Mechanical
- The Atto 3 has shown reasonable reliability, but a few mechanical issues have been reported:
- 12V Battery Drain: Premature draining can occur due to software bugs or faulty batteries, typically resolved under warranty.
- Drive Shaft Retaining Bolts: Some reports indicate that the bolt can loosen, causing creaking noises when moving the car. This issue is generally resolved by tightening or replacing the affected components.
- Steering Arm Failure: Rare incidents of steering arms breaking after hitting large potholes have been reported, with repairs covered under warranty.
- Electronic Parking Brake: Some owners have experienced issues with the parking brake not engaging or disengaging properly. This is also rare and usually fixed under warranty.
- Battery degradation appears to be minimal, provided owners follow best practices, such as avoiding frequent deep discharges (below 10%) and limiting charges to 80% for day-to-day use.
Driving and Ownership Experience
- Some owners have criticised the Atto 3’s overly sensitive emergency braking system, which can engage unnecessarily.
- The suspension performs well in urban settings and on highways, delivering a comfortable ride. However, on uneven country roads, the ride can feel bouncy, almost as if the struts are relying too much on the springs.
- Range estimates remain a point of contention. The WLTP-rated range of 420 km for the Extended Range model often falls short in real-world conditions. Owners report achieving between 320 km and 380 km on a full charge, depending on driving style and conditions—up to 100 km less than the WLTP claim. This discrepancy is not unique to BYD, as overly optimistic WLTP figures are a common industry issue.
Exterior
- According to owners and businesses using the BYD Atto 3 for ride-sharing or as taxis, the exterior is generally trouble-free.
- There are occasional reports of minor electrical glitches, such as lights behaving erratically. These issues are rare and often resolve themselves after restarting the car or through over-the-air (OTA) software updates, making them more of an inconvenience than a serious concern.
- Some owners have noted that the exterior panels are relatively thin, possibly a design choice by BYD to reduce weight, as EVs are typically heavier than their ICE counterparts. However, this can make the panels more prone to denting. Additionally, spare parts for repairs can be challenging to source, leading to extended waiting times after accidents.
- A unique design feature is the low door edges, which can make parking on inclines tricky as the doors may be harder to open. On the positive side, this design keeps dirt and grime off the sills, helping to keep clothing clean when entering or exiting the vehicle.
- Owners have also pointed out that the boot release and rearview camera are positioned very low, making them susceptible to dirt accumulation, especially after driving on wet or dusty roads.
- One of the most significant complaints about pre-2024 models is the factory-fitted Atlas Batman tires. Many owners reported poor traction, particularly in wet conditions, describing the car as feeling “under-tyred.” Thankfully, BYD addressed this issue in the 2024 update by replacing the Atlas Batman tires with Continental tires, offering better grip and overall performance.
Interior
- The Atto 3’s interior receives praise for its design, but some ergonomic issues have been reported. For instance, the fixed headrests can be uncomfortable for certain body types, pushing the head too far forward. Many owners have resorted to using lumbar support cushions to alleviate discomfort.
- On extremely hot days, the air conditioning system can struggle to maintain optimal cooling, even when using the pre-conditioning feature via the app. This allows users to remotely activate the air conditioning or lower the windows before entering the car.
- Some owners have experienced software glitches affecting features like the boot lock button, steering wheel controls, or sunroof operation. However, these issues are typically resolved with a system restart or through OTA software updates.
- A recurring issue with some 2022 models involved the “N” peeling off the gear shifter, with reports of the sharp edges causing minor cuts. This issue has largely been resolved under warranty.
- The wireless charging pad has been described as inconsistent, with some owners reporting that it occasionally fails to charge devices properly. Additionally, it’s advised to turn off the wireless charging pad when not in use, as the electromagnetic field can interfere with credit cards if stored nearby.
- Some owners have expressed disappointment about the absence of features they expect at this price point, such as automatic wipers and keyless entry for the passenger side.
Mechanical
- The Atto 3 has shown reasonable reliability, but a few mechanical issues have been reported:
- 12V Battery Drain: Premature draining can occur due to software bugs or faulty batteries, typically resolved under warranty.
- Drive Shaft Retaining Bolts: Some reports indicate that the bolt can loosen, causing creaking noises when moving the car. This issue is generally resolved by tightening or replacing the affected components.
- Steering Arm Failure: Rare incidents of steering arms breaking after hitting large potholes have been reported, with repairs covered under warranty.
- Electronic Parking Brake: Some owners have experienced issues with the parking brake not engaging or disengaging properly. This is also rare and usually fixed under warranty.
- Battery degradation appears to be minimal, provided owners follow best practices, such as avoiding frequent deep discharges (below 10%) and limiting charges to 80% for day-to-day use.
Driving and Ownership Experience
- Some owners have criticised the Atto 3’s overly sensitive emergency braking system, which can engage unnecessarily.
- The suspension performs well in urban settings and on highways, delivering a comfortable ride. However, on uneven country roads, the ride can feel bouncy, almost as if the struts are relying too much on the springs.
- Range estimates remain a point of contention. The WLTP-rated range of 420 km for the Extended Range model often falls short in real-world conditions. Owners report achieving between 320 km and 380 km on a full charge, depending on driving style and conditions—up to 100 km less than the WLTP claim. This discrepancy is not unique to BYD, as overly optimistic WLTP figures are a common industry issue.
Should you buy it?
Should You Buy a Used BYD Atto 3? We believe you should, provided the vehicle passes all critical pre-purchase inspections and you are confident that your lifestyle can accommodate owning an electric vehicle (EV).
As a Chinese-made EV, the BYD Atto 3 is often subject to negative preconceptions. However, real-world ownership experiences paint a different picture—it has so far proven to be a capable and impressive small SUV.
For what it aims to achieve, the Atto 3 excels, often outperforming its competition in key areas like affordability, equipment levels, and practicality. Additionally, BYD’s commitment to continual improvement through regular over-the-air updates and design tweaks means the car evolves and stays relevant over time.
In its price bracket, the BYD Atto 3 is an outstanding option for a small electric SUV. If you’re in the market for a used EV in this segment, the Atto 3 deserves serious consideration and should sit at the very top of your list.
Should You Buy a Used BYD Atto 3? We believe you should, provided the vehicle passes all critical pre-purchase inspections and you are confident that your lifestyle can accommodate owning an electric vehicle (EV).
As a Chinese-made EV, the BYD Atto 3 is often subject to negative preconceptions. However, real-world ownership experiences paint a different picture—it has so far proven to be a capable and impressive small SUV.
For what it aims to achieve, the Atto 3 excels, often outperforming its competition in key areas like affordability, equipment levels, and practicality. Additionally, BYD’s commitment to continual improvement through regular over-the-air updates and design tweaks means the car evolves and stays relevant over time.
In its price bracket, the BYD Atto 3 is an outstanding option for a small electric SUV. If you’re in the market for a used EV in this segment, the Atto 3 deserves serious consideration and should sit at the very top of your list.
Should you buy it?
Should You Buy a Used BYD Atto 3? We believe you should, provided the vehicle passes all critical pre-purchase inspections and you are confident that your lifestyle can accommodate owning an electric vehicle (EV).
As a Chinese-made EV, the BYD Atto 3 is often subject to negative preconceptions. However, real-world ownership experiences paint a different picture—it has so far proven to be a capable and impressive small SUV.
For what it aims to achieve, the Atto 3 excels, often outperforming its competition in key areas like affordability, equipment levels, and practicality. Additionally, BYD’s commitment to continual improvement through regular over-the-air updates and design tweaks means the car evolves and stays relevant over time.
In its price bracket, the BYD Atto 3 is an outstanding option for a small electric SUV. If you’re in the market for a used EV in this segment, the Atto 3 deserves serious consideration and should sit at the very top of your list.
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Models, pricing & features
Tech specs
Body Styles
- 5 door Wagon
Engine Specs
- AC150kW electric, AC150kW electric / Instant electric (All Models)
Transmission
- 1-speed Reduction Gear (All Models)
Fuel Consumption
- Electric (All Models)
Length
- 4455mm (All Models)
Width
- 1875mm (All Models)
Height
- 1615mm (All Models)
Wheelbase
- 2720mm (All Models)
Kerb Weight
- 1680kg – 1750kg (All Models)
Towing
- Not listed (All Models)
Ancap Ratings
- 5 stars, tested 2022 (All Models)
Body Styles
- 5 door Wagon
Engine Specs
- AC150kW electric, AC150kW electric / Instant electric (All Models)
Transmission
- 1-speed Reduction Gear (All Models)
Fuel Consumption
- Electric (All Models)
Length
- 4455mm (All Models)
Width
- 1875mm (All Models)
Height
- 1615mm (All Models)
Wheelbase
- 2720mm (All Models)
Kerb Weight
- 1680kg – 1750kg (All Models)
Towing
- Not listed (All Models)
Ancap Ratings
- 5 stars, tested 2022 (All Models)
Body Styles
- 5 door Wagon
Engine Specs
- AC150kW electric, AC150kW electric / Instant electric (All Models)
Transmission
- 1-speed Reduction Gear (All Models)
Fuel Consumption
- Electric (All Models)
Length
- 4455mm (All Models)
Width
- 1875mm (All Models)
Height
- 1615mm (All Models)
Wheelbase
- 2720mm (All Models)
Kerb Weight
- 1680kg – 1750kg (All Models)
Towing
- Not listed (All Models)
Ancap Ratings
- 5 stars, tested 2022 (All Models)
Warranty & servicing
Warranty
- 6 years / 150,000 km (All Models)
Servicing
- 20,000 km / 12 months (All Models)
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Disclaimer
Please note that pricing information is subject to fluctuations in the automotive market.
Information correct as of Dec 18, 2024.
The advice provided on this website is general advice only. It has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this advice, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.
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