BYD has updated its popular SUV, and the result is the new BYD Atto 3 Evo.
It’s not an entirely new car, but rather an evolution of the brand’s first model launched in Europe. After a short drive, the first impression is clear: it has improved. The question is whether it’s enough in a market where competitors have moved forward significantly.
More power – and you can feel it
Visually, this is a facelift. New colors, updated taillights, and a more integrated rear light design give the car a fresher look. The Atto 3 EVO remains a compact SUV focused more on functionality than a wow factor.
The biggest change lies in the powertrain. Where the previous Atto 3 had 204 hp, the new model now delivers 313 hp in the rear-wheel-drive version we tested, and 449 hp in the all-wheel-drive version. The battery has also grown from 60 kWh to 74 kWh, with a claimed range of up to 510 km. This is a noticeable difference in both performance and range. It also charges faster than before, now supporting an 800V platform with charging speeds of up to 220 kW.
Good space in the cabin
Inside, there have been improvements. The large touchscreen has been upgraded and is now fixed in a horizontal position, whereas before it could rotate. Fortunately, BYD has dropped that gimmick. The screen is easier to read, and the user experience feels more logical. There are no physical buttons, but the digital shortcuts work reasonably well. However, you still need to take your eyes off the road.
The materials remain a mix of hard plastics and some softer surfaces. The steering wheel feels a bit cheap, but it looks good and adds a sporty feel. On the positive side, the seating position is comfortable. The front seats are supportive, and there is good space in the rear. An adult can sit there without any issues.
The car now also includes a front trunk (frunk) with 90 liters of space, while the rear trunk offers 490 liters. The Atto 3 EVO could easily become a popular taxi option. It can also tow up to 1,500 kg, which is quite rare in this class.
Driving in the right direction
The suspension was previously a major criticism. It felt firm and uncomfortable, especially on poor roads. After a short drive, it seems BYD has improved it. It’s not perfect and doesn’t match the comfort of the best German competitors, but it feels more balanced than before.
On the highway, there is still noticeable cabin noise. Here, it lags behind newer models from brands like Renault, which have improved significantly in this area.
The car feels faster, more responsive, and generally more modern. However, it’s still not a sporty car. The steering feels somewhat numb, and the brakes are slightly spongy. You need to press fairly hard, and the response can feel uneven. That said, the increase from 204 hp to 313 hp is very noticeable, and overtaking on the highway is easy. It is also easy to park thanks to rear-wheel drive and good visibility.
In short, the Atto 3 EVO feels more like a new model than just a facelift – and that’s meant positively.
A clear improvement – but tough competition
EVO stands for evolution, and that’s exactly what this car represents. It’s not a revolution. BYD hasn’t reinvented the Atto 3, but they have improved it where it matters: more power, a better cabin, and improved comfort.
However, the market is moving fast. Competitors like the Skoda Elroq and other new EVs are putting on pressure. Still, the Atto 3 EVO remains an interesting package. It’s easy to live with, relatively spacious, and now more modern than before.
