BYD DOLPHIN vs KIA Sonet
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
Premium Extended Range EV
Electric
Single-Speed Reduction Gear
Current
ZAR 602,900
ex-showroom
⚡ 150 kW
🔧 310 Nm
VS
＋
Add a 3rd car
Decision summary
BYD DOLPHIN vs KIA Sonet: the short answer
DOLPHIN has a modest catalogue-index lead, while Sonet remains close.
Sonet starts ZAR 209,905 cheaper
DOLPHIN from ZAR 539,900 · Sonet from ZAR 329,995
Five key differences
Exact selected derivativesSwipe sideways to compare every column
| Specification | DOLPHIN | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power | DOLPHIN150 kW | Sonet85 kW @ 6300 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | DOLPHIN310 Nm | Sonet143 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine Size | DOLPHINNot Applicable | Sonet1497 cc |
| Combined Fuel Economy | DOLPHINNot Applicable | Sonet16.9 km/l |
| Ground Clearance | DOLPHIN155 mm | Sonet211 mm |
Strongest published figure in that row; no road-test winner is implied.
Independent editorial assessment
Hagalu editorial ratings
When a variant is selected, its rating out of five applies only to that exact derivative; a model-range review is not inherited. Editorial ratings are separate from the Specification Evidence Index out of 100 and are not customer ratings.
KIA Sonet
1.5 EX+ CVT
Hagalu editorial rating
Not yet rated
No complete editorial rating is published for this exact variant. This is not a zero score.
How Hagalu rates cars →Not yet rated means a complete review is not published; it does not mean the vehicle scored zero. Read the rating methodology.
What Each Car Gets Right (and Wrong)
Specification evidence leader
DOLPHIN
Strengths
- More powerful engine output
- Better fuel efficiency
- Stronger listed safety equipment
Weak Spots
- Lower published practicality figures
Best suited to:
Published Performance
Published Efficiency
Sonet
Strengths
- Stronger published practicality figures
Weak Spots
- Less powerful engine setup
- Lower fuel efficiency
- Fewer listed safety features
Best suited to:
Published Practicality
Which One's Right for You?
DOLPHIN
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published powertrain figures
- Buyers prioritising the lower published fuel or energy use
- Buyers prioritising the more complete listed safety equipment
Sonet
- 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 | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Model Introduced Year | 2024 | 2021 |
| Generation | First South African DOLPHIN generation | First generation (BC3); launched globally 2020, SA 2021 |
| Facelift History | No separately marketed South African facelift announced as at August 2026 | 2023 model year update with revised front styling and expanded ADAS features |
| Facelift Launched Since | Original current-generation version | 2023 |
| Facelift Version Ending | Current | Current |
| Body Style | Hatchback | SUV |
| Model Year | 2026 | 2026 |
| Production Status | Active | active |
| Segment | Compact Hatchback | SUV |
| Vehicle Type | Passenger vehicle | SUV |
| Dealer Stock Note | - | Flagship grade in the South Africa lineup |
| Color Note | - | Clear White, Aurora Black Pearl, Gravity Blue, Pewter Olive, Intense Red, Steel Grey, Glacier White Pearl (two-tone options on SX) |
| Tare Mass Kg | - | 1270 kg |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4290 mm | 3995 mm |
| Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Height | 1570 mm | 1635 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm | 2500 mm |
| Ground Clearance (Default) | 155 mm | 211 mm |
| Ground Clearance (With Full Seating Load) | 130 mm | 190 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 0 l | 45 l |
| Boot/Cargo Space | 345 l | 392 l |
| Kerb Weight | 1658 kg | 1270 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 2068 kg | 1710 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 410 kg | 408 kg |
| Towing Capacity | 0 kg | 1100 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Rows | 2 rows | 2 rows |
| Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Minimum Turning Radius | 5.25 m | 10.4 m |
| Front Headroom | 1000 mm | 990 mm |
| Rear Headroom | 900 mm | 950 mm |
| Front Legroom | 1130 mm | 1030 mm |
| Rear Legroom | 740 mm | 860 mm |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Single-motor battery-electric powertrain | 1.5-litre Naturally Aspirated Petrol |
| Engine Code | Not Applicable | G4LC |
| Fuel Type | Electric | Petrol |
| Hybrid System | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Engine Displacement | Not Applicable | 1497 cc |
| Cylinders | Not Applicable | 4 |
| Cylinder Layout | Not Applicable | Inline |
| Valves | Not Applicable | 16 |
| Valves per Cylinder | Not Applicable | 4 |
| Aspiration | Not Applicable | Naturally Aspirated |
| Fuel System | Not Applicable | Direct Injection |
| Compression Ratio | Not Applicable | 13.0:1 |
| Bore | Not Applicable | 75 mm |
| Stroke | Not Applicable | 84.5 mm |
| Maximum Power | 150 kW | 85 kW @ 6300 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 310 Nm | 143 Nm @ 4000 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 | CVT |
| Top Speed | 160 km/h | 172 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | 7.0 sec | 11.2 sec |
| Quarter Mile | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Drive Modes | Eco, Normal, Sport, Snow | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Launch Control | Not Officially Disclosed | No |
| Rev Limiter | Not Applicable | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 90.5 kW/tonne | 66.9 kW/tonne |
| Torque-to-Weight Ratio | 187.0 Nm/tonne | 112.6 Nm/tonne |
| Battery Capacity | 60.48 kWh | Not Applicable |
| Usable Battery Capacity | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Applicable |
| Battery Type | LFP | Not Applicable |
| Battery Voltage | 403.2 V | Not Applicable |
| Electric Range | 427 km | Not Applicable |
| AC Charging Power | 7 kW | Not Applicable |
| DC Charging Power | 80 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 | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Gearbox | Single-Speed Reduction Gear | Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) |
| 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 | Not Available | 3.56 |
| Number of Gears | 1 | CVT |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Continuously Variable Transmission |
| Clutch Type | Not Applicable | Torque Converter |
| Gear Shift Indicator | Standard | No |
| Gear Shift Type | Instrument cluster switch gear selector | Automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| 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 | Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) |
| Low Range Ratio | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Low Range | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Axle Layout | 4x2 | FWD |
| Rear Differential Lock | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Transmission Speeds | 1 | CVT |
| Engine Position | - | Front Transverse |
| Steering Turns Lock to Lock | - | 15.1:1 |
| Transfer Case Guard | - | Not Available |
| Differential Type Front | - | Not Available |
| Differential Type Rear | - | Not Available |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Claimed Mileage | Not Applicable | 16.9 km/l |
| City Mileage | Not Applicable | 13.7 km/l |
| Highway Mileage | Not Applicable | 20.0 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | Not Applicable | 45 l |
| Emission Standard | Not Applicable | Euro 6 |
| AdBlue Tank Capacity | Not Applicable | No |
| Auto Start Stop | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Real-world Mileage | Not Applicable | 16.9 km/l |
| Charging Port Type | Type 2 AC; CCS2 DC | Not Applicable |
| Charging Type | AC and DC | Not Applicable |
| Fuel Tank Litres | Not Applicable | 45 |
| Combined Driving Range | 427 km | Not Applicable |
| Electric Consumption | 15.9 kWh/100 km (WLTP) | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Highway | 315 km | Not Applicable |
| Range Real World Mixed | 398 km | Not Applicable |
| Low Fuel Warning | - | Yes |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 7 | 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 | Standard | Yes |
| AEB | Standard | Yes |
| BA | Standard | Yes |
| Brake Override System | Standard | Yes |
| 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 | Standard | Yes |
| Seatbelt Pretensioners | Standard | Yes |
| Seatbelt Reminder | Standard | Yes |
| Side Airbags | Standard | Yes |
| Stability Control | Standard | Yes |
| TCS | Standard | Yes |
| Knee Airbag | Not Available | No |
| ABS EBD | Standard | Yes |
| Side Impact Beams | - | Yes |
| Whiplash Protection | - | Yes |
| Pedestrian Detection AEB | - | Yes |
| Lane Change Warning | - | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | - | Yes |
| Fatigue Detection | - | Yes |
| Speed Alert System | - | Yes |
| Safety Rating | - | 5 |
| Central Locking | - | Yes |
| Alarm System | - | Yes |
| ESC With Traction Control | - | Yes |
| Driver Front Passenger Airbags | - | 6 |
| Driver Passenger Airbags | - | 6 |
| Anti Theft Alarm | - | Yes |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Control | Standard | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Standard | Yes |
| Lane Keep Assist | Standard | Yes |
| Lane Departure Warning | Standard | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Standard | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Standard | Yes |
| Parking Sensors | Standard | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | Standard | Yes |
| 360 Degree Camera | Standard | Yes |
| Autonomous Emergency Braking | Standard | Yes |
| Driver Fatigue Alert | Standard | Yes |
| Traffic Sign Recognition | Standard | No |
| Auto Highbeam | Standard | Yes |
| Auto Wipers | Standard | Yes |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Standard | Yes |
| Reverse Camera | Standard | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Standard | Yes |
| Park Assist | Standard | Yes |
| Around View Monitor | Standard | Yes |
| Blind Spot Warning | Standard | Yes |
| Forward Collision Warning | Standard | Yes |
| EV Mode | - | No |
| Reversing Camera | - | Yes |
| Auto Lights | - | Yes |
| Eco Mode | - | Yes |
| Sport Mode | - | No |
| Emergency Braking | - | Yes |
| Pre-Collision System | - | Yes |
| Rear View Camera | - | Yes |
| Reverse Camera Type | - | Yes |
| Surround View Camera | Standard | Yes |
| Parking Distance Sensors | - | Yes |
| Parking Sensor | - | Yes |
| Front Camera | - | Yes |
| Automatic High Beam | - | Yes |
| Rain Sensor Wipers | - | Yes |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Material | Synthetic leather | Leather |
| Heated Seats | Not Available | Yes |
| Ventilated Seats | Standard | Yes |
| Ambient Lighting | Standard | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Material | Synthetic leather | Leather |
| 60 40 Split Seat | Standard | Yes |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | 6-way electric | 8-Way Power |
| Passenger Seat Adjustment | Electric adjustment | 4-Way Manual |
| Seat Trim | Synthetic leather | Leather |
| Front Shoulder Room | - | 1380 mm |
| Rear Shoulder Room | - | 1330 mm |
| Steering Type | - | Yes |
| Steering Adjustment | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Rear USB Ports | - | Yes |
| Instrument Cluster Type | - | Digital |
| Rear AC Vents | - | No |
| Cooled Seats | - | Yes |
| Fabric Seats | - | No |
| Leather Seats | - | Yes |
| Adjustable Driver Seat | - | 8-Way Power |
| Seat Adjustment | - | 8-Way Power |
| Adjustable Front Seat | - | 4-Way Manual |
| Driver Lumbar Support | - | Yes |
| Memory Seats | - | Yes |
| Folding Rear Seats | - | Yes |
| Front Headrest | - | Adjustable |
| Rear Headrest | - | Adjustable |
| Front Armrest | - | Centre Armrest |
| Rear Armrest | - | Yes |
| Door Map Pockets | - | Yes |
| Cup Holders | - | 4 |
| Interior Colour Options | - | Black |
| Interior Courtesy Lamps | - | 10.25-inch touchscreen (EX+), digital instrument cluster (SX), wireless CarPlay/Android Auto (SX), Bose audio (SX), ventilated front seats (SX), ambient lighting, 6 airbags all grades |
| Boot Space Seats Down | - | 1143 |
| Seat Belt Warning | - | Yes |
| Leather Accented Seat Trim | - | Leather |
| Driver Seat | - | 8-Way Power |
| Seat Fold Type | - | Yes |
| Armrest Front | - | Centre Armrest |
| Armrest Rear | - | Yes |
| Rear Seat Centre Armrest | - | Yes |
| Interior Colours | - | Black |
| Interior Trim Colour | - | Black |
| Seat Adjustment Driver Backrest | - | Yes |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Climate Control | Automatic | Yes |
| Power Windows | Standard | Yes |
| Keyless Entry | Standard | Yes |
| Push Button Start | Standard | Yes |
| Wireless Charging | Standard | Yes |
| Sunroof | Panoramic | No |
| Electric Tailgate | Not Available | No |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | Standard | Yes |
| AC Type | Automatic | Yes |
| Intercooler | - | No |
| Rev Matching | - | No |
| Performance Data Logger | - | No |
| Fuel Consumption Combined | - | 5.9 |
| Engine Start Stop | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Start Stop Button | Standard | Yes |
| Engine Start Button Illumination | - | Yes |
| Engine Check Warning | - | Yes |
| Drag Coefficient | - | 0.34 |
| Roof Load | - | 50 kg |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | - | 1143 l |
| Stabilizer Bar | - | Yes |
| Steering Response | - | Normal |
| Skid Plates | - | No |
| Side Steps | - | No |
| Spare Wheel | Tyre repair kit | Temporary Spare |
| Tyre Repair Kit | - | No |
| Seatbelt Pre Tensioner | - | Yes |
| Hill Start Assist | - | Yes |
| Speed Limiter | - | Yes |
| Speed Alert System | - | Yes |
| Impact Sensing Door Unlock | - | Yes |
| Surround View Monitor | Standard | Yes |
| Adaptive Dampers | - | No |
| Voice Command | - | Yes |
| Voice Command Support | - | Yes |
| Digital Speedometer | - | Yes |
| Driver Display | - | Digital Cluster |
| Heads Up Display | - | No |
| Tachometer | - | Yes |
| Trip Computer | - | Yes |
| Multi Function Steering | - | Yes |
| Steering Mounted Controls | - | Yes |
| Air Conditioning | Automatic | Yes |
| Climate Zones | - | 2 |
| Rear Air Conditioning | - | No |
| Glovebox Cooling | - | No |
| Seat Type | - | Leather Seats |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | - | Yes |
| Rear Seat Split | - | Yes |
| Headrest Adjustable | - | Yes |
| Front Armrest | - | Yes |
| Vanity Mirror | - | Yes |
| 12V Accessory Socket | - | Yes |
| Front Power Outlet | - | Yes |
| Rear Reading Lamps | - | Yes |
| Push Button Start | Standard | Yes |
| Remote Engine Start | - | No |
| Remote Start | - | No |
| Remote Central Locking | - | Yes |
| Door Ajar Warning | - | Yes |
| Fuel Lid Opener | - | Remote |
| Boot Opener | - | Remote |
| Power Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Heated Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Electric Folding Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Electric Mirror Folding | - | Yes |
| Remote Side Mirror | - | Yes |
| Auto Dimming Irvm | - | No |
| Auto Dimming Mirror | - | No |
| Rear Window Defroster | - | Yes |
| Rear Defogger | - | Yes |
| Follow Me Home Headlamps | - | Yes |
| Tail Lamps | - | Yes |
| Automatic Headlamps | - | Yes |
| Headlamp Height Adjust | - | Yes |
| Headlamp Washer | - | No |
| Panoramic Roof | Panoramic | No |
| Roof Antenna | - | Yes |
| Rear Wing | - | Yes |
| Aero Kit | - | No |
| Chrome Grille | - | Yes |
| Chrome Exterior Highlights | - | No |
| Ride Mode Selection | - | Yes |
| Powered Tailgate | - | No |
| Engine Warranty | - | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Service Reminder | - | Yes |
| Trim Level | - | flagship |
| Variant Role | - | Flagship / premium derivative |
| Accelerator 0 100 | - | 11.2 sec |
| Common Rail Injection | - | Gasoline Direct Injection |
| Diff Lock | - | No |
| Difflock | - | No |
| Vdc | - | Yes |
| TPMS | Standard | Yes |
| Sonar | - | Yes |
| Automatic High Beam | - | Yes |
| Steering Column Adjustment | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Tilt Steering | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Telescopic Steering | - | Tilt and Telescopic |
| Bottle Holders | - | 4 |
| Glove Box | - | Yes |
| Manual Aircon | - | Yes |
| Intelligent Keyless Entry | - | Yes |
| Passive Entry Start | - | Yes |
| Wireless Charger | Standard | Yes |
| Lift Gate | - | No |
| Electric Fold Indicator Mirrors | - | Yes |
| Power Socket 12v | - | Yes |
| Sound System | 6 | 8 |
| Roof Rack Compatibility | - | Yes |
| Mirror | - | Electric |
| Rim Size | 17 | 215/55 R17 |
| Stabilizer Bar Front | - | Yes |
| Stabilizer Bar Rear | - | Yes |
| Sub Frame | - | Unibody |
| Vehicle To Grid | - | Not Available |
| Vehicle To Load | - | Not Available |
| One Pedal Driving | - | Not Available |
| Regenerative Braking Levels | - | Not Available |
| Rear Electric Motor | - | Not Available |
| Battery Preconditioning | - | Not Available |
| Load Bed Cover | - | Not Available |
| Tailgate Lock | - | Not Available |
| Sports Bar | - | Not Available |
| Canopy Fitment | - | Not Available |
| Bed Extender | - | Not Available |
| Source Model Column | - | sonet |
| Intelligent Battery System | - | Not Available |
| Front Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Rear Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Depth Mm | - | Not Available |
| Load Bed Light | - | Not Available |
| Load Bed Steps | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Rope Hooks | - | Not Available |
| Loadbox Tiedown Brackets | - | Not Available |
| Tailgate Damper | - | Not Available |
| Tow Bar Type | - | Not Available |
| Sport Plus Mode | - | Not Available |
| Unlocking | Standard | Yes |
| Walk Away Lock | - | Yes |
| Walk Away Auto Door Lock | - | Yes |
| Rear LED Combination Taillights | - | Yes |
| Front Wiper | - | Yes |
| Front Wipers Type | - | Yes |
| Rearview Mirror Inside | - | No |
| Vanity Mirror Illuminated | - | Yes |
| Reading Lights Rear | - | Yes |
| Centre Console | - | Centre Armrest |
| Side Impact Bars | - | Yes |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | - | 1143 l |
| Load Bed Length | - | Not Applicable |
| Load Bed Width | - | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Length Mm | - | Not Applicable |
| Loadbox Width Mm | - | Not Applicable |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen | 10.25-inch Touchscreen |
| Apple CarPlay | Standard | Yes |
| Android Auto | Standard | Yes |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Standard | Yes |
| Number of Speakers | 6 | 8 |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | Full LCD instrument display | Yes |
| USB Ports | Front and rear USB-A/USB-C ports | 4 |
| Infotainment Screen | 12.8 | 10.25 |
| Touchscreen | 12.8 | 10.25 |
| Infotainment Display | - | 10.25 |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 12.8 | 10.25 |
| Navigation System | - | Yes |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | Standard | Yes |
| Rear Usb | - | Yes |
| AUX Input | - | No |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | - | No |
| Premium Audio | - | Yes |
| FM Radio | - | Yes |
| Radio | - | Yes |
| Voice Recognition | - | Yes |
| Head Up Display | - | No |
| Audio Controls On Steering | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Yes |
| Multi Information Display | - | Digital |
| Display Audio | - | 10.25-inch Touchscreen |
| Smartphone Connectivity | - | Yes |
| Connected Services | - | Yes |
| Audio Speakers | 6 | 8 |
| Front Rear USB Charge Ports | - | 4 |
| Voice Control | - | Yes |
| Audio | - | Yes |
| Audio System | - | Yes |
| Wireless Android Auto | Standard | Yes |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| LED Headlamps | Standard | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lamps | LED | Yes |
| Fog Lamps | Rear fog lamp | Yes |
| Roof Rails | Not Applicable | Yes |
| Exterior Colour Options | Atlantis Grey + Black, Blue + Grey, Ski White + Grey | Multiple |
| Headlights | Standard | Yes |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Standard | No |
| Front Overhang | - | 800 mm |
| Rear Overhang | - | 695 mm |
| Body Type | - | Sub-Compact SUV |
| Alloy Wheel Design | - | Alloy Alloy |
| Wing Mirror Type | - | Electric |
| Rear Wiper | - | Yes |
| Led Headlights | Standard | Yes |
| DRL | LED | Yes |
| Led Taillights | - | Yes |
| Fog Lights | - | Yes |
| Front Fog Lights | - | Yes |
| Rear Fog Lights | - | Yes |
| Roof Type | - | Standard |
| Rear Spoiler | - | Yes |
| Body Cladding | - | No |
| Chrome Exterior Finish | - | No |
| Door Handle Finish | - | Body Colour |
| Exterior Colour Options | - | 7 |
| Exterior Mirror Electric | - | Yes |
| Auto Headlights | - | Yes |
| Automatic Headlamps | - | Yes |
| Headlamps | Standard | Yes |
| Headlight Type | Standard | Yes |
| Exterior Mirror Folding | - | Yes |
| Headlamp Levelling | - | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lights | LED | Yes |
| Front Fog Lamps | Rear fog lamp | Yes |
| Rear Spoiler | - | Yes |
| Exterior Door Handle Colour | - | Body Colour |
| Load Bed Liner | - | Not Available |
| Active Exhaust | - | Not Available |
| Electric Blind Sunroof | - | Standard |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Approach Angle | 16 deg | 21 deg |
| Departure Angle | 23 deg | 35 deg |
| Wading Depth | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Terrain Modes | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Locking Differential | Not Available | No |
| 4WD System Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Breakover Angle | Not Applicable | 16 deg |
| Ramp Breakover Angle | - | 16 deg |
| Ramp-over Angle | - | 18 deg |
| Recovery Hooks | - | No |
| Underbody Protection | - | No |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Ground Clearance Min | - | 211 mm |
| Ground Clearance Max | - | 211 mm |
| Off Road Descent Control | - | Not Available |
| Terrain Response System | - | Not Available |
| Crawl Control | - | Not Available |
| Underbody Camera | - | Not Available |
| Energy Recovery Display | - | 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 |
| Off Road Traction Assist | - | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Transfer Case | - | Not Available |
| Skid Plates Fuel Tank | - | Not Available |
| Front Skid Plate Guard | - | Not Available |
| Rear Skid Plate Guard | - | Not Available |
| Approach Angle Deg | - | 21 deg |
| Departure Angle Deg | - | 35 deg |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Size | 205/50 R17 | 215/55 R17 |
| Front Brake Type | Ventilated disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Disc | Drum |
| Spare Wheel Type | Tyre repair kit | Temporary Spare |
| Wheel Rim Size | 17 | 215/55 R17 |
| Handbrake Type | Electronic parking brake | Electronic |
| Brake Type Front | - | Ventilated Disc |
| Front Brake Disc Diameter | - | 280 mm |
| Brake Type Rear | - | Drum |
| Rear Brake Drum Diameter | - | 236 mm |
| Parking Brake Type | - | Electronic |
| Front Tyre Width | - | 215 mm |
| Rear Tyre Width | - | 215 mm |
| Wheel Diameter | 17 | 215/55 R17 |
| Wheel Type | - | Alloy Alloy |
| Tyre Type | - | Radial |
| Tyre Load Index | - | 102 |
| Tyre Speed Rating | - | H |
| Spare Tyre | Tyre repair kit | Temporary Spare |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | Standard | Yes |
| Tyre Pressure Display | - | Yes |
| Hydraulic Brake Assist | - | Yes |
| Autonomous Emergency Brake | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Yes |
| Wheel Material | - | Alloy Alloy |
| Wheels | - | Alloy Alloy |
| Spare Wheel Size Type | - | Temporary Spare |
| Electric Park Brake | - | Electronic |
| Wheel Size Type | - | 215/55 R17 |
| Fifth Wheel Prep | - | Not Available |
| Steering Wheel Cruise Controls | - | Yes |
| Steering Wheel Phone Controls | - | Yes |
| Leather Steering Wheel | - | Leather |
| Steering Wheel Trim | - | Leather |
| Brakes | - | Ventilated Disc |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | - | Yes |
| Cornering Brake Control | - | Yes |
| Auto Brake Hold | - | Electronic |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Front Suspension | MacPherson strut | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-link | Coupled Torsion Beam |
| Front Track Width | - | 1544 mm |
| Rear Track Width | - | 1536 mm |
| Chassis Type | - | Unibody |
| Front Spring Type | - | Coil Spring |
| Rear Spring Type | - | Coil Spring |
| Shock Absorber Type | - | Telescopic |
| Front Anti-Roll Bar | - | Yes |
| Rear Anti-Roll Bar | - | Yes |
| Power Steering | - | Yes |
| Steering Column | - | Adjustable |
| Front Suspension Type | MacPherson strut | MacPherson Strut |
| Suspension | - | MacPherson Strut |
| Rear Suspension Type | Multi-link | Coupled Torsion Beam |
| Rear Axle Type | - | Coupled Torsion Beam |
| Shock Absorbers | - | Telescopic |
| Chassis Material | - | Unibody |
| MagneRide Damping | - | Not Available |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| CO2 Emissions | 0 g/km | 138 g/km |
| Fuel Octane Requirement | - | 93 Octane |
| Variable Valve Timing | - | CVVT |
| Particulate Filter | - | No |
| Fuel Evaporation Control | - | Yes |
| Idle CO2 Output | - | 145 |
| Green NCAP Rating | - | 4 |
| Start Stop System | - | Yes |
| Euro Emission Standard | - | Euro 6 |
| Noise Level | - | 67 dB |
| CO2 Emissions G Km | - | 138 |
| Hybrid System Type | - | Not Available |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Service Plan | 3 years/60000 km service plan | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Alternator | - | Yes |
| Engine Oil Capacity | - | 4.5 l |
| Engine Oil Change Interval | - | 15000 |
| Service Plan Duration | 3 years/60000 km service plan | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Service Plan Distance | 3 years/60000 km service plan | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Maintenance Plan | - | 3 Years / 45,000 km |
| Service Interval | - | 15000 |
| First Service At | - | 15000 |
| Approx Service Cost | - | R3,000 per service |
| Anti-Rust Treatment | - | Yes |
| Service Intervals | - | 15000 |
| Battery Warranty | - | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Role | extended-range derivative | Flagship |
| Price Zar | 602900 ZAR | 469995 ZAR |
| Pricing Role | extended-range derivative | Current listed price |
| Starting Price | 602900 | 469995 |
| Starting Price Zar | 602900 | 469995 |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Warranty | 3 years/100000 km complete vehicle; 8 years/200000 km power battery; 5 years/100000 km drive unit | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Basic Warranty | 3 years/100000 km complete vehicle; 8 years/200000 km power battery; 5 years/100000 km drive unit | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Warranty Years | 3 years/100000 km complete vehicle; 8 years/200000 km power battery; 5 years/100000 km drive unit | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Warranty Kilometers | 3 years/100000 km complete vehicle; 8 years/200000 km power battery; 5 years/100000 km drive unit | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Anti-Corrosion Warranty | - | 5 Years |
| Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years |
| Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years |
| Warranty Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Sonet |
|---|---|---|
| Real-world City Mileage Min | - | 11.6 l/100km |
| Real-world City Mileage Max | - | 15.1 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Min | - | 18.0 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Max | - | 21.0 l/100km |
In depth: how these cars differ
This DOLPHIN and Sonet 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 66 vs Sonet 36.
Efficiency index: DOLPHIN 90 vs Sonet 65.
Safety-equipment index: DOLPHIN 98 vs Sonet 93.
Practicality index: DOLPHIN 56 vs Sonet 59.
Ownership-cover index: DOLPHIN not separately scored vs Sonet 71.
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 and Sonet image comparison
Open an image for its full canonical file or visit the model page for the complete vehicle record.
BYD DOLPHIN
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KIA Sonet
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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 leads by 12 points
DOLPHIN has a modest catalogue-index lead, while Sonet remains close.
Evidence leader
76
/100
Lead
12
points
Data
64%
source coverage
76
#1
Evidence leader
DOLPHIN
64% source coverage
2 strong categories
Best at
Safety 98
Check
Practicality 56
Performance
66
Efficiency
90
Safety
98
Practicality
56
Leads by 12 points
64
#2
Sonet
99% source coverage
2 strong categories
Best at
Safety 93
Check
Performance 36
Performance
36
Efficiency
65
Safety
93
Practicality
59
Ownership
71
Performance 24%
Safety 22%
Practicality 22%
Efficiency 17%
Ownership 15%
Category leaders
What moves the verdict
Performance
DOLPHIN +30
Efficiency
DOLPHIN +25
Safety
DOLPHIN +5
Practicality
Sonet +3
Moderate difference in the source-backed catalogue index.
Why this score View full breakdown
Evidence-index leader
DOLPHIN
Performance
66/100
Efficiency
90/100
Safety
98/100
Practicality
56/100
Sonet
Performance
36/100
Efficiency
65/100
Safety
93/100
Practicality
59/100
Ownership
71/100
What the evidence means
Evidence index
BYD DOLPHIN
leads the specification evidence index with 76 pts
vs 64 pts for Sonet
In Hagalu's specification evidence index, DOLPHIN leads. However, Sonet may suit buyers prioritising different confirmed fields. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your driving priorities in South Africa.
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DOLPHIN vs Sonet 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.