Source type: BYD Auto South Africa
BYD DOLPHIN SURF vs Hyundai i20
A proper head-to-head in South Africa — compare price, performance, fuel economy or electric range, safety and the details that shape long-term ownership.
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BYD DOLPHIN SURF
Dynamic EV
Electric
Single-Speed Reduction Gear
Current
ZAR 395,900
ex-showroom
⚡ 55 kW
🔧 135 Nm
VS
Hyundai i20
1.0T Fluid
Petrol
6-Speed Manual
Current
ZAR 328,900
ex-showroom
⚡ 74 kW
🔧 172 Nm
⛽ 14.5 km/l
＋
Add a 3rd car
Decision summary
BYD DOLPHIN SURF vs Hyundai i20: the short answer
DOLPHIN SURF and i20 are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
i20 starts ZAR 45,000 cheaper
DOLPHIN SURF from ZAR 341,900 · i20 from ZAR 296,900
Five key differences
Exact selected derivativesSwipe sideways to compare every column
| Specification | DOLPHIN SURF | i20 |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power | DOLPHIN SURF55 kW | i2074 kW @ 5500 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | DOLPHIN SURF135 Nm | i20172 Nm @ 1500 rpm |
| Engine Size | DOLPHIN SURFNot Applicable | i20998 cc |
| Combined Fuel Economy | DOLPHIN SURFNot Applicable | i2014.5 km/l |
| Ground Clearance | DOLPHIN SURF155 mm | i20195 mm |
Strongest published figure in that row; no road-test winner is implied.
Source type: Official OEM South Africa
What Each Car Gets Right (and Wrong)
Specification evidence leader
DOLPHIN SURF
Strengths
- Better fuel efficiency
- Stronger listed safety equipment
Weak Spots
- Less powerful engine setup
- Lower published practicality figures
Best suited to:
Published Efficiency
i20
Strengths
- More powerful engine output
- Stronger published practicality figures
Weak Spots
- Lower fuel efficiency
- Fewer listed safety features
Best suited to:
Published Performance
Published Practicality
Which One's Right for You?
DOLPHIN SURF
- Buyers prioritising the lower published fuel or energy use
- Buyers prioritising the more complete listed safety equipment
i20
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published powertrain figures
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published space and capacity figures
Full Specs, Side by Side
Open a category, then swipe sideways to compare every column
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | i20 |
|---|---|---|
| Model Introduced Year | 2025 | 2008 |
| Generation | First South African DOLPHIN SURF generation | Third generation i20 on the K2 platform; sold in SA with 1.0T three-cylinder turbo across all variants |
| Facelift History | No separately marketed South African facelift announced as at August 2026 | Third generation launched globally in 2020 and arrived in SA shortly after; significant improvement over the second gen in styling, tech, and driving dynamics |
| Facelift Launched Since | Original current-generation version | 2020 |
| Facelift Version Ending | Current | Current |
| Body Style | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Model Year | 2026 | 2026 |
| Production Status | Active | active |
| Segment | City Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Vehicle Type | Passenger vehicle | Hatchback |
| Color Note | - | White, Black, Silver, Blue, Red, Yellow |
| Dealer Stock Note | - | Fluid grade in the South Africa lineup |
| Tare Mass Kg | - | 1135 kg |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | i20 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 3925 mm | 4040 mm |
| Width | 1720 mm | 1775 mm |
| Height | 1590 mm | 1505 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2500 mm | 2580 mm |
| Ground Clearance (Default) | 155 mm | 195 mm |
| Ground Clearance (With Full Seating Load) | 120 mm | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 0 l | 40 l |
| Boot/Cargo Space | 230 l | 352 l |
| Kerb Weight | 1280 kg | 1135 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 1690 kg | 1610 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 410 kg | 475 kg |
| Towing Capacity | 0 kg | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Rows | 2 rows | 2 rows |
| Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Minimum Turning Radius | 4.95 m | 5.2 m |
| Front Headroom | 980 mm | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Rear Headroom | 920 mm | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Front Legroom | 1060 mm | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Rear Legroom | 690 mm | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | i20 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Single-motor battery-electric powertrain | 1-litre Turbocharged Petrol |
| Engine Code | Not Applicable | G3LE |
| Fuel Type | Electric | Petrol |
| Hybrid System | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Engine Displacement | Not Applicable | 998 cc |
| Cylinders | Not Applicable | 3 |
| Cylinder Layout | Not Applicable | Inline |
| Valves | Not Applicable | 12 |
| Valves per Cylinder | Not Applicable | 4 |
| Aspiration | Not Applicable | Turbocharged |
| Fuel System | Not Applicable | Direct Injection |
| Compression Ratio | Not Applicable | 10.0:1 |
| Bore | Not Applicable | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Stroke | Not Applicable | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Maximum Power | 55 kW | 74 kW @ 5500 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 135 Nm | 172 Nm @ 1500 rpm |
| Combined Power | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Combined Torque | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Motor Type | Permanent Magnet Synchronous | Not Applicable |
| Number of Motors | 1 | Not Applicable |
| Motor Location | Front | Not Applicable |
| Drive Type | FWD | FWD |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Reduction Gear | 6-Speed Manual |
| Top Speed | 130 km/h | 185 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | 15.5 sec | 11.0 sec |
| Quarter Mile | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Drive Modes | Eco, Normal, Sport, Snow | Eco, Normal |
| Launch Control | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Rev Limiter | Not Applicable | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 43.0 kW/tonne | 65.2 kW/tonne |
| Torque-to-Weight Ratio | 105.5 Nm/tonne | 151.5 Nm/tonne |
| Battery Capacity | 38.88 kWh | Not Applicable |
| Usable Battery Capacity | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Applicable |
| Battery Type | LFP | Not Applicable |
| Battery Voltage | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Applicable |
| Electric Range | 295 km (WLTP) | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Power | 6.6 kW | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Power | 40 kW | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Time | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Time | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Applicable |
| Regenerative Braking | Yes | Not Applicable |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | i20 |
|---|---|---|
| Gearbox | Single-Speed Reduction Gear | iMT 6-speed Intelligent Manual |
| Drivetrain Layout | Front motor, front-wheel drive | FWD |
| LSD Available | Not Available | No |
| Transfer Case | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Differential Lock | Not Available | No |
| Paddle Shifters | Not Applicable | No |
| Final Drive Ratio | 10.45 | Not Applicable |
| Number of Gears | 1 | 7 |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Clutch Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Gear Shift Indicator | Standard | Yes |
| Gear Shift Type | Instrument switch group gear selector | iMT 6-speed Intelligent Manual |
| Drivetrain | FWD | Front-Wheel Drive |
| 4WD Engagement | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Hi Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Lo Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| 4WD Selector | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Automatic Shift Paddles | Not Applicable | No |
| Front Differential Lock | Not Available | Not Applicable |
| Gearbox Type | Single-speed reduction gear | iMT 6-speed Intelligent Manual |
| Low Range Ratio | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Low Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Axle Layout | 4x2 | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Rear Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Transmission Speeds | 1 | 7 |
| Engine Position | - | Front |
| Differential Type Front | - | Not Available |
| Differential Type Rear | - | Not Available |
| Transfer Case Guard | - | Not Available |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | i20 |
|---|---|---|
| Claimed Mileage | Not Applicable | 14.5 km/l |
| City Mileage | Not Applicable | 11.7 km/l |
| Highway Mileage | Not Applicable | 17.1 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | Not Applicable | 40 l |
| Emission Standard | Not Applicable | Euro 6 |
| AdBlue Tank Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Auto Start Stop | Not Applicable | No |
| Real-world Mileage | Not Applicable | 14.5 km/l |
| Charging Port Type | Type 2 AC; CCS2 DC | Not Applicable |
| Charging Type | AC and DC | Not Applicable |
| Fuel Tank Litres | Not Applicable | 40 |
| Combined Driving Range | 295 km (WLTP) | Not Applicable |
| Electric Consumption | 13.4 kWh/100 km (measured) | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Highway | 245 km | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Mixed | 288 km | Not Applicable |
| Distance To Empty | - | Yes |
| Low Fuel Warning | - | Yes |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | i20 |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 6 | 6 |
| ABS | Standard | Yes |
| Electronic Stability Control | Standard | Yes |
| Traction Control | Standard | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Hill Start Assist | Standard | Yes |
| Child Safety Lock | Standard | Yes |
| ISOFIX Mounts | Standard | Yes |
| Brake Assist | Standard | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Monitor | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Standard | Yes |
| Seatbelt Warning All Seats | Standard | Yes |
| Front Parking Sensors | Not Available | Front & Rear |
| AEB | Not Available | No |
| BA | Standard | Yes |
| Brake Override System | Standard | Not Available |
| Curtain Airbags | Standard | Yes |
| Driver Airbag | Standard | Yes |
| EBD | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Immobiliser | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Hill Hold | Standard | Yes |
| Passenger Airbag | Standard | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Not Available | Yes |
| Seatbelt Pretensioners | Standard | Yes |
| Seatbelt Reminder | Standard | Yes |
| Side Airbags | Standard | Yes |
| Stability Control | Standard | Yes |
| TCS | Standard | Yes |
| Knee Airbag | Not Available | Not Available |
| ABS EBD | Standard | Yes |
| Alarm System | - | Yes |
| Central Locking | - | Yes |
| Speed Alert System | - | Yes |
| Safety Rating | - | Not Rated (SA) |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | - | Yes |
| Anti Theft Alarm | - | Yes |
| Driver Front Passenger Airbags | - | 6 |
| Driver Passenger Airbags | - | 6 |
| ESC With Traction Control | - | Yes |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | i20 |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Control | Standard | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Not Available | Yes |
| Lane Keep Assist | Not Available | Yes |
| Lane Departure Warning | Not Available | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Not Available | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Not Available | Yes |
| Parking Sensors | Standard | Front & Rear |
| Rear View Camera | Standard | Yes |
| 360 Degree Camera | Not Available | Not Available |
| Autonomous Emergency Braking | Not Available | No |
| Driver Fatigue Alert | Not Available | Not Available |
| Traffic Sign Recognition | Not Available | No |
| Auto Highbeam | Not Available | Not Available |
| Auto Wipers | Standard | No |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Standard | Front & Rear |
| Reverse Camera | Standard | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Not Available | Yes |
| Park Assist | Standard | Not Available |
| Around View Monitor | Not Available | Not Available |
| Blind Spot Warning | Not Available | Yes |
| Forward Collision Warning | Not Available | Not Available |
| Auto Lights | - | Yes |
| Eco Mode | - | Yes |
| EV Mode | - | No |
| Sport Mode | - | No |
| Emergency Braking | - | No |
| Parking Distance Sensors | - | Front & Rear |
| Parking Sensor | - | Front & Rear |
| Pre-Collision System | - | Yes |
| Rain Sensor Wipers | - | No |
| Rear View Camera | - | Yes |
| Reverse Camera Type | - | Yes |
| Reversing Camera | - | Yes |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | i20 |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Material | Synthetic leather | Leather-Look |
| Heated Seats | Standard | Front |
| Ventilated Seats | Not Available | No |
| Ambient Lighting | Not Available | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Material | Imitation leather | Leather |
| 60 40 Split Seat | Not Available | Yes |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | 6-way electric | Manual |
| Passenger Seat Adjustment | 4-way manual | Manual |
| Seat Trim | Synthetic leather | Leather-Look |
| Seat Adjustment | - | Manual |
| Steering Type | - | Electric |
| Steering Adjustment | - | Tilt & Telescopic |
| Folding Rear Seats | - | 60/40 Split |
| Front Armrest | - | Yes |
| Rear Armrest | - | No |
| Front Shoulder Room | - | Not Applicable |
| Rear Shoulder Room | - | Not Applicable |
| Cup Holders | - | 4 |
| Rear AC Vents | - | No |
| Rear USB Ports | - | 2 USB-A + 1 USB-C |
| Instrument Cluster Type | - | Analogue + MID |
| Interior Colour Options | - | Black |
| Door Map Pockets | - | Yes |
| Adjustable Driver Seat | - | Manual |
| Adjustable Front Seat | - | Manual |
| Cooled Seats | - | No |
| Fabric Seats | - | Yes |
| Front Headrest | - | Yes |
| Leather Seats | - | No |
| Memory Seats | - | No |
| Rear Headrest | - | Yes |
| Armrest Front | - | Yes |
| Armrest Rear | - | No |
| Boot Space Seats Down | - | 1165 |
| Driver Seat | - | Manual |
| Interior Courtesy Lamps | - | 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on Fluid, digital instrument cluster, sporty flat-bottom steering wheel, quality-feeling interior |
| Interior Trim Colour | - | Black |
| Leather Accented Seat Trim | - | Leather-Look |
| Interior Colours | - | Black |
| Rear Seat Centre Armrest | - | No |
| Seat Belt Warning | - | Yes |
| Seat Fold Type | - | 60/40 Split |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | i20 |
|---|---|---|
| Climate Control | Electric air conditioner | Auto Climate Control |
| Power Windows | Standard | All |
| Keyless Entry | Standard | Yes |
| Push Button Start | Standard | Yes |
| Wireless Charging | Standard | Yes |
| Sunroof | Not Available | Sunroof |
| Electric Tailgate | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | Standard | No |
| AC Type | Electric air conditioner | Auto Climate Control |
| Load Bed Length | - | Not Applicable |
| Load Bed Width | - | Not Applicable |
| Automatic Headlamps | - | Yes |
| Auto Dimming Mirror | - | No |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | - | 1165 l |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | - | 1165 l |
| Rear Window Defroster | - | Yes |
| Electric Mirror Folding | - | Power Adjustable |
| Follow Me Home Headlamps | - | Yes |
| 12V Accessory Socket | - | 12V |
| Adaptive Dampers | - | Not Available |
| Auto Dimming Irvm | - | No |
| Boot Opener | - | Inside |
| Climate Zones | - | 1 |
| Door Ajar Warning | - | Yes |
| Electric Folding Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Engine Check Warning | - | Yes |
| Engine Start Button Illumination | - | Yes |
| Engine Start Stop | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Start Stop Button | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Warranty | - | 4 |
| Front Armrest | - | Yes |
| Front Power Outlet | - | Yes |
| Fuel Consumption Combined | - | 6.9 |
| Fuel Lid Opener | - | Inside |
| Glovebox Cooling | - | Yes |
| Headlamp Height Adjust | - | Manual |
| Headlamp Washer | - | No |
| Hill Start Assist | - | Yes |
| Panoramic Roof | Not Available | Sunroof |
| Performance Data Logger | - | Not Available |
| Power Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Push Button Start | Standard | Yes |
| Rear Defogger | - | Yes |
| Rear Reading Lamps | - | Yes |
| Rear Seat Split | - | 60/40 Split |
| Rear Wing | - | Yes |
| Rev Matching | - | Not Available |
| Seat Type | - | Leather-Look |
| Seatbelt Pre Tensioner | - | Yes |
| Service Reminder | - | Yes |
| Skid Plates | - | Not Available |
| Spare Wheel | Tyre repair kit | Spare Wheel |
| Steering Mounted Controls | - | Yes |
| Tachometer | - | Yes |
| Tail Lamps | - | Yes |
| Telescopic Steering | - | No |
| Tilt Steering | - | Yes |
| Trip Computer | - | Yes |
| Vanity Mirror | - | Yes |
| Voice Command | - | Yes |
| Voice Command Support | - | Yes |
| Accelerator 0 100 | - | 11.0 sec |
| Air Conditioning | Electric air conditioner | Auto Climate Control |
| Battery Preconditioning | - | Not Available |
| Bed Extender | - | Not Available |
| Bottle Holders | - | 4 |
| Canopy Fitment | - | Not Available |
| Centre Console | - | Yes |
| Common Rail Injection | - | Direct Injection |
| Diff Lock | - | No |
| Difflock | - | No |
| Digital Speedometer | - | Analogue + MID |
| Front Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Front Wiper | - | Yes |
| Front Wipers Type | - | Yes |
| Glove Box | - | Yes |
| Intelligent Battery System | - | Not Available |
| Intelligent Keyless Entry | - | Yes |
| Load Bed Cover | - | Not Available |
| Load Bed Light | - | Not Available |
| Load Bed Steps | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Depth Mm | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Length Mm | - | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Rope Hooks | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Tiedown Brackets | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Width Mm | - | Not Applicable |
| Manual Aircon | - | Auto Climate Control |
| Mirror | - | Power Adjustable |
| One Pedal Driving | - | Not Available |
| Passive Entry Start | - | Yes |
| Power Socket 12v | - | 12V |
| Reading Lights Rear | - | Yes |
| Rear Air Conditioning | - | No |
| Rear Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Rear Electric Motor | - | Not Available |
| Rear LED Combination Taillights | - | Yes |
| Rearview Mirror Inside | - | No |
| Regenerative Braking Levels | - | Not Available |
| Remote Central Locking | - | Yes |
| Remote Side Mirror | - | Power Adjustable |
| Rim Size | 16 | 16 |
| Roof Rack Compatibility | - | No |
| Sonar | - | Front & Rear |
| Sound System | 4 | 8 Bose Premium |
| Source Model Column | - | i20 |
| Sport Plus Mode | - | Not Available |
| Sports Bar | - | Not Available |
| Steering Column Adjustment | - | Tilt & Telescopic |
| Sub Frame | - | Monocoque |
| Tailgate Damper | - | Not Available |
| Tailgate Lock | - | Not Available |
| Tow Bar Type | - | Not Available |
| TPMS | Standard | Yes |
| Trim Level | - | fluid |
| Unlocking | Standard | Yes |
| Vanity Mirror Illuminated | - | Yes |
| Variant Role | - | Mid-to-high value derivative |
| Vdc | - | Yes |
| Vehicle To Grid | - | Not Available |
| Vehicle To Load | - | Not Available |
| Walk Away Auto Door Lock | - | Yes |
| Walk Away Lock | - | Yes |
| Wireless Charger | Standard | Yes |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | i20 |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | 10.1-inch touchscreen | 10.25-inch Touchscreen |
| Apple CarPlay | Standard | Yes |
| Android Auto | Standard | Yes |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Standard | Yes |
| Number of Speakers | 4 | 8 Bose Premium |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | 7-inch digital instrument display | 10.25-inch Digital Cluster |
| USB Ports | Front and rear USB-A/USB-C ports | 2 USB-A + 1 USB-C |
| Infotainment Screen | 10.1 | 10.25-inch Touchscreen |
| Touchscreen | 10.1 | 10.25-inch Touchscreen |
| Navigation System | - | Yes |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | Standard | Yes |
| Wireless Android Auto | Standard | Yes |
| FM Radio | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Yes |
| Voice Recognition | - | Yes |
| AUX Input | - | Yes |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 10.1 | 10.25-inch Touchscreen |
| Audio Controls On Steering | - | Yes |
| Infotainment Display | - | Touchscreen |
| Rear Usb | - | Yes |
| Audio | - | Yes |
| Audio Speakers | 4 | 8 Bose Premium |
| Audio System | - | Yes |
| Display Audio | - | 10.25-inch Touchscreen |
| Front Rear USB Charge Ports | - | 2 USB-A + 1 USB-C |
| Multi Information Display | - | Analogue + MID |
| Connected Services | - | Yes |
| Voice Control | - | Yes |
| Smartphone Connectivity | - | Yes |
| Radio | - | Yes |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | i20 |
|---|---|---|
| LED Headlamps | Standard | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lamps | LED | LED |
| Fog Lamps | Rear fog lamp | Yes |
| Roof Rails | Not Applicable | No |
| Exterior Colour Options | Lime Green, Cream White, Cosmos Black, Ice Blue | Polar White, Aurora Grey, Phantom Black, Fiery Red |
| Headlights | Standard | Yes |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Not Available | Sunroof |
| Alloy Wheel Design | - | 17-inch Alloy |
| Rear Spoiler | - | Yes |
| Roof Type | - | Sunroof |
| Wing Mirror Type | - | Power Adjustable |
| Rear Wiper | - | Yes |
| Door Handle Finish | - | Body Coloured |
| Body Type | - | Hatchback |
| DRL | LED | LED |
| Fog Lights | - | Yes |
| Front Fog Lights | - | Yes |
| Led Headlights | Standard | Yes |
| Led Taillights | - | Yes |
| Auto Headlights | - | Yes |
| Automatic Headlamps | - | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lights | LED | LED |
| Electric Blind Sunroof | - | Sunroof |
| Exterior Colour Options | - | 6 |
| Exterior Door Handle Colour | - | Body Coloured |
| Exterior Mirror Electric | - | Yes |
| Exterior Mirror Folding | - | Power Adjustable |
| Front Fog Lamps | Rear fog lamp | Yes |
| Headlamp Levelling | - | Yes |
| Headlamps | Standard | Yes |
| Headlight Type | Standard | Yes |
| Load Bed Liner | - | Not Available |
| Active Exhaust | - | Not Available |
| Rear Spoiler | - | Yes |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | i20 |
|---|---|---|
| Approach Angle | 15 deg | - |
| Departure Angle | 25 deg | - |
| Wading Depth | Not Applicable | - |
| Terrain Modes | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Locking Differential | Not Available | No |
| 4WD System Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Breakover Angle | Not Applicable | 20 deg |
| Underbody Protection | - | Not Available |
| Ramp Breakover Angle | - | 20 deg |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Ramp-over Angle | - | 20 deg |
| Approach Angle Deg | - | - |
| Departure Angle Deg | - | - |
| Energy Recovery Display | - | Not Available |
| Front Skid Plate Guard | - | Not Available |
| Ground Clearance Max | - | 195 mm |
| Ground Clearance Min | - | 195 mm |
| Off Road Descent Control | - | Not Available |
| Off Road Traction Assist | - | Not Available |
| Crawl Control | - | Not Available |
| Rear Skid Plate Guard | - | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Fuel Tank | - | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Transfer Case | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Mud | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Normal | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Rock | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Sand | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Mode Snow | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Response System | - | Not Available |
| Underbody Camera | - | Not Available |
| Wading Depth Mm | - | - |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | i20 |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Size | 185/55 R16 | 205/45 R17 |
| Front Brake Type | Ventilated disc | Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Disc | Disc |
| Spare Wheel Type | Tyre repair kit | Spare Wheel |
| Wheel Rim Size | 16 | 16 |
| Handbrake Type | Electronic parking brake | Manual |
| Wheel Type | - | 17-inch Alloy |
| Front Brake Disc Diameter | - | 256 mm |
| Rear Brake Drum Diameter | - | 262 mm |
| Parking Brake Type | - | Manual |
| Tyre Load Index | - | 91 |
| Tyre Speed Rating | - | H |
| Brake Type Front | - | Disc (Ventilated) |
| Brake Type Rear | - | Disc |
| Spare Tyre | Tyre repair kit | Spare Wheel |
| Tyre Type | - | Tubeless Radial |
| Wheel Diameter | 16 | 16 |
| Auto Brake Hold | - | Manual |
| Autonomous Emergency Brake | - | No |
| Brakes | - | Disc |
| Cornering Brake Control | - | Yes |
| Electric Park Brake | - | Manual |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | - | Yes |
| Fifth Wheel Prep | - | Not Available |
| Hydraulic Brake Assist | - | Yes |
| Leather Steering Wheel | - | Leather |
| Spare Wheel Size Type | - | Spare Wheel |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Cruise Controls | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Phone Controls | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Trim | - | Leather |
| Tyre Pressure Display | - | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | Standard | Yes |
| Wheel Material | - | 17-inch Alloy |
| Wheel Size Type | - | 16 |
| Wheels | - | 17-inch Alloy |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | i20 |
|---|---|---|
| Front Suspension | MacPherson strut | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension | Torsion beam | Torsion Beam |
| Front Track Width | - | 1551 mm |
| Rear Track Width | - | 1565 mm |
| Chassis Type | - | Monocoque |
| Power Steering | - | Electric |
| Steering Column | - | Tilt |
| Front Spring Type | - | Coil |
| Rear Spring Type | - | Coil |
| Chassis Material | - | Monocoque |
| Front Suspension Type | MacPherson strut | MacPherson Strut |
| MagneRide Damping | - | Not Available |
| Rear Axle Type | - | Torsion Beam |
| Rear Suspension Type | Torsion beam | Torsion Beam |
| Suspension | - | MacPherson Strut |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | i20 |
|---|---|---|
| CO2 Emissions | 0 g/km | 110 g/km |
| Start Stop System | - | No |
| Hybrid System Type | - | Not Available |
| Variable Valve Timing | - | Yes |
| Fuel Octane Requirement | - | Unleaded 95 |
| Particulate Filter | - | Not Available |
| Euro Emission Standard | - | Euro 6 |
| Idle CO2 Output | - | 110 |
| Fuel Evaporation Control | - | Yes |
| CO2 Emissions G Km | - | 110 |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | i20 |
|---|---|---|
| Service Plan | 4 years/2 services service plan | 3 Years / 45000 km |
| Service Interval | - | 15000 km / 12 months |
| Battery Warranty | - | 4 |
| Maintenance Plan | - | 3 Years / 45000 km |
| Engine Oil Capacity | - | 3.6 l |
| Engine Oil Change Interval | - | 15000 |
| First Service At | - | 15000 |
| Service Plan Duration | 4 years/2 services service plan | 3 Years / 45000 km |
| Service Plan Distance | 4 years/2 services service plan | 3 Years / 45000 km |
| Alternator | - | 120A |
| Service Intervals | - | 15000 km / 12 months |
| Accessory Battery Type | - | Lead-acid |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | i20 |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Role | longer-range city derivative | Fluid |
| Price Zar | 395900 ZAR | 328900 ZAR |
| Pricing Role | longer-range city derivative | Current listed price |
| Starting Price | 395900 | 328900 |
| Starting Price Zar | 395900 | 328900 |
| Spec | DOLPHIN SURF | i20 |
|---|---|---|
| Warranty | 3 years/100000 km complete vehicle; 8 years/200000 km power battery; 5 years/100000 km drive unit | 5 |
| Warranty Years | 3 years/100000 km complete vehicle; 8 years/200000 km power battery; 5 years/100000 km drive unit | 5 |
| Warranty Kilometers | 3 years/100000 km complete vehicle; 8 years/200000 km power battery; 5 years/100000 km drive unit | 5 |
| Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years |
| Anti-Corrosion Warranty | - | 5 Years |
| Basic Warranty | 3 years/100000 km complete vehicle; 8 years/200000 km power battery; 5 years/100000 km drive unit | 5 |
| Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years |
| Warranty Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years |
In depth: how these cars differ
This DOLPHIN SURF and i20 comparison uses the exact derivatives selected above for South Africa. The catalogue index covers performance, efficiency, safety equipment, practicality and ownership cover only where comparable source-backed fields are present.
Performance index: DOLPHIN SURF 25 vs i20 37.
Efficiency index: DOLPHIN SURF 90 vs i20 59.
Safety-equipment index: DOLPHIN SURF 87 vs i20 84.
Practicality index: DOLPHIN SURF 51 vs i20 61.
Ownership-cover index: DOLPHIN SURF not separately scored vs i20 65.
These figures are Hagalu catalogue-comparison indicators, not customer ratings, crash-test scores, resale guarantees or a substitute for a road test. Each page shows its weighted source coverage beside the result.
Model imagery
DOLPHIN SURF and i20 image comparison
Open an image for its full canonical file or visit the model page for the complete vehicle record.
BYD DOLPHIN SURF
View 8 more DOLPHIN SURF images
Hyundai i20
View 8 more i20 images
Specification Evidence Index
A transparent comparison of published catalogue fields. This is not a road-test score, owner rating or editorial review rating, and it appears only when every vehicle clears the same comparable-data threshold.
Evidence-index readout
DOLPHIN SURF leads by 0 points
DOLPHIN SURF and i20 are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
Evidence leader
61
/100
Lead
0
points
Data
60%
source coverage
61
#1
Evidence leader
DOLPHIN SURF
60% source coverage
2 strong categories
Best at
Efficiency 90
Check
Performance 25
Performance
25
Efficiency
90
Safety
87
Practicality
51
Leads by 0 points
61
#2
i20
93% source coverage
1 strong categories
Best at
Safety 84
Check
Performance 37
Performance
37
Efficiency
59
Safety
84
Practicality
61
Ownership
65
Performance 24%
Safety 22%
Practicality 22%
Efficiency 17%
Ownership 15%
Category leaders
What moves the verdict
Performance
i20 +12
Efficiency
DOLPHIN SURF +31
Safety
DOLPHIN SURF +3
Practicality
i20 +10
Close catalogue match. Buyer priorities should decide the outcome.
Why this score View full breakdown
Evidence-index leader
DOLPHIN SURF
Performance
25/100
Efficiency
90/100
Safety
87/100
Practicality
51/100
i20
Performance
37/100
Efficiency
59/100
Safety
84/100
Practicality
61/100
Ownership
65/100
What the evidence means
Evidence index
BYD DOLPHIN SURF
leads the specification evidence index with 61 pts
vs 61 pts for i20
In Hagalu's specification evidence index, DOLPHIN SURF leads. However, i20 may suit buyers prioritising different confirmed fields. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your driving priorities in South Africa.
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DOLPHIN SURF vs i20 questions
There is no universal winner. Use the comparison table to match the models and available derivatives in South Africa on price, safety equipment, space, powertrain and ownership cover. The category indicators summarise published catalogue data; they are not a road test or customer rating.
Compare the published consumption or mileage rows for the exact derivatives using the same unit and test basis. A catalogue figure is useful for like-for-like comparison, but traffic, speed, load, weather and driving style can change actual fuel use.
Compare only equipment explicitly listed for each derivative, including airbags, stability control and driver-assistance systems. Confirm the exact trim with the manufacturer, and treat any independent crash-test result separately because equipment and ratings can differ by market.
A reliable five-year total cannot be calculated from catalogue data alone. Add the exact purchase and finance cost, fuel or electricity, insurance quotes, scheduled servicing, tyres and expected resale value. Check whether the selected derivative includes a service or maintenance plan.
Use the seating, boot or load-space, ISOFIX and safety rows as a first check. Then test the exact cars with your child seats, passengers and typical luggage, because published dimensions do not show every access or comfort difference.
Compare the published power, torque and 0–100 km/h rows when they are available for both exact derivatives. Vehicle weight, gearing and power delivery also matter, so catalogue outputs alone do not establish real-world overtaking or response.