Hyundai Ioniq 5 or BYD Atto 3: which is the better premium EV?

I’m looking to buy an EV within Rs 50 lakh and it will be used by my wife and me. I’ve test driven the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and BYD Atto 3, and while I liked both cars, the BYD is much cheaper and its relatively compact size is more appealing to me. We plan to keep the car for at least 8-10 years. So from a long-term perspective, is the ATTO 3 a good buy?

R Kothari, via email

Autocar India says: The BYD Atto 3 is a really competent offering – it is a strong performer, and with a respectable real-world battery range, it is quite practical for occasional touring. What’s more, the company has you covered with an 8-year/1.60-lakh-kilometre warranty on its battery and motor, in addition to the three-year standard warranty. It misses some features like ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, etc, which you’d expect at its price point. But it is nearly Rs 12 lakh cheaper (on-road), and is shorter in length too, which makes it a bit easier to manage within city confines.

But the unique Hyundai Ioniq 5 is comfier, better-equipped and feels more luxurious, thus justifying its premium over the BYD. Performance is smooth, at 453km on a single charge, its range is good, and its drive experience is really nice and smooth. Even Hyundai offers a 3-year standard warranty and an 8-year battery warranty on the Ioniq 5. Since you have the budget, we’d suggest you go for the Ioniq 5; it is worth the stretch.

Also See:

Hyundai Ioniq 5 review, road test

Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV review: Slick and characterful performer

Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV India video review

BYD Atto 3 review: Characterful and slick to drive

BYD Atto 3 EV SUV video review

BYD Atto 3 real world range test video