Source type: BYD Auto South Africa
BYD DOLPHIN vs Suzuki Swift
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 Suzuki Swift: the short answer
DOLPHIN holds a noticeable catalogue-index lead over Swift.
Swift starts ZAR 311,000 cheaper
DOLPHIN from ZAR 539,900 · Swift from ZAR 228,900
Five key differences
Exact selected derivativesSwipe sideways to compare every column
| Specification | DOLPHIN | Swift |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Power | DOLPHIN150 kW | Swift60 kW @ 5700 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | DOLPHIN310 Nm | Swift112 Nm @ 4300 rpm |
| Engine Size | DOLPHINNot Applicable | Swift1197 cc |
| Combined Fuel Economy | DOLPHINNot Applicable | Swift20 km/l |
| Ground Clearance | DOLPHIN155 mm | Swift145 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
Strengths
- More powerful engine output
- Better fuel efficiency
- Stronger listed safety equipment
- Stronger published practicality figures
Weak Spots
- No obvious weak spots to flag.
Best suited to:
Published Performance
Published Efficiency
Published Practicality
Swift
Strengths
- Nothing stands out clearly here.
Weak Spots
- Less powerful engine setup
- Lower fuel efficiency
- Fewer listed safety features
- Lower published practicality figures
Best suited to:
General Use
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
- Buyers prioritising the stronger published space and capacity figures
Swift
- Buyers who prefer this derivative's confirmed specification mix
Full Specs, Side by Side
Open a category, then swipe sideways to compare every column
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Swift |
|---|---|---|
| Model Introduced Year | 2024 | 2017 |
| Generation | First South African DOLPHIN generation | Third generation (AZ/NZ series) on HEARTECT platform; Z12E DualJet engine generation introduced globally 2020-2021; current SA specification reflects 2022 range update with GLX tier added |
| Facelift History | No separately marketed South African facelift announced as at August 2026 | Third-generation Swift launched in SA in 2017 with K12B engine; engine updated to Z12E DualJet in 2021 bringing improved fuel economy and refined low-rpm performance; GLX trim added to the SA range in 2022 with heads-up display and dual-zone climate control; ongoing specification updates maintain competitive equipment levels |
| Facelift Launched Since | Original current-generation version | 2022 |
| Facelift Version Ending | Current | Current |
| Body Style | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Model Year | 2026 | 2026 |
| Production Status | Active | active |
| Segment | Compact Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Vehicle Type | Passenger vehicle | Hatchback |
| Color Note | - | Solid White, Pearl Snow White, Metallic Blue, Metallic Red, Metallic Granite Grey, Metallic Silky Silver, Pearl Midnight Black, Burning Red Pearl |
| Dealer Stock Note | - | Flagship grade in the South Africa lineup |
| Tare Mass Kg | - | 975 kg |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Swift |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4290 mm | 3890 mm |
| Width | 1770 mm | 1735 mm |
| Height | 1570 mm | 1495 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm | 2450 mm |
| Ground Clearance (Default) | 155 mm | 145 mm |
| Ground Clearance (With Full Seating Load) | 130 mm | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 0 l | 37 l |
| Boot/Cargo Space | 345 l | 265 l |
| Kerb Weight | 1658 kg | 975 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 2068 kg | 1380 kg |
| Payload Capacity | 410 kg | 425 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 | 5.25 m | 4.8 m |
| Front Headroom | 1000 mm | 975 mm |
| Rear Headroom | 900 mm | 967 mm |
| Front Legroom | 1130 mm | 1032 mm |
| Rear Legroom | 740 mm | 890 mm |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Swift |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Single-motor battery-electric powertrain | 1.2-litre Naturally Aspirated Petrol |
| Engine Code | Not Applicable | Z12E |
| Fuel Type | Electric | Petrol |
| Hybrid System | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Engine Displacement | Not Applicable | 1197 cc |
| Cylinders | Not Applicable | 3 |
| Cylinder Layout | Not Applicable | Inline |
| Valves | Not Applicable | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Valves per Cylinder | Not Applicable | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Aspiration | Not Applicable | Naturally Aspirated |
| Fuel System | Not Applicable | Multi-Point Injection |
| Compression Ratio | Not Applicable | 12.0:1 |
| Bore | Not Applicable | 73 mm |
| Stroke | Not Applicable | 95.5 mm |
| Maximum Power | 150 kW | 60 kW @ 5700 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 310 Nm | 112 Nm @ 4300 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 | 160 km/h |
| 0-100 km/h | 7.0 sec | 12.5 sec |
| Quarter Mile | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Drive Modes | Eco, Normal, Sport, Snow | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Launch Control | Not Officially Disclosed | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Rev Limiter | Not Applicable | Not Officially Disclosed |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | 90.5 kW/tonne | 61.5 kW/tonne |
| Torque-to-Weight Ratio | 187.0 Nm/tonne | 114.9 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 | Swift |
|---|---|---|
| Gearbox | Single-Speed Reduction Gear | CVT Automatic |
| Drivetrain Layout | Front motor, front-wheel drive | Front Wheel Drive |
| LSD Available | Not Available | Not Applicable |
| Transfer Case | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Differential Lock | Not Available | Not Applicable |
| Paddle Shifters | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Final Drive Ratio | Not Available | 4.388:1 |
| Number of Gears | 1 | 7 |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Continuously Variable Transmission |
| Clutch Type | Not Applicable | Single Dry Plate Diaphragm |
| Gear Shift Indicator | Standard | Not Applicable |
| Gear Shift Type | Instrument cluster switch gear selector | CVT 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 | Not Applicable |
| Front Differential Lock | Not Available | Not Applicable |
| Gearbox Type | Single-speed reduction gear | CVT Automatic |
| 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 | 7 |
| Engine Position | - | Transverse Front-Mounted |
| Steering Turns Lock to Lock | - | 2.7 |
| Differential Type Front | - | Not Available |
| Differential Type Rear | - | Not Available |
| Transfer Case Guard | - | Not Available |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Swift |
|---|---|---|
| Claimed Mileage | Not Applicable | 20 km/l |
| City Mileage | Not Applicable | 16.1 km/l |
| Highway Mileage | Not Applicable | 23.8 km/l |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | Not Applicable | 37 l |
| Emission Standard | Not Applicable | Euro 5 |
| AdBlue Tank Capacity | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Auto Start Stop | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Real-world Mileage | Not Applicable | 20 km/l |
| Charging Port Type | Type 2 AC; CCS2 DC | Not Applicable |
| Charging Type | AC and DC | Not Applicable |
| Fuel Tank Litres | Not Applicable | 37 |
| 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 |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Swift |
|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 7 | 6 |
| ABS | Standard | Standard |
| Electronic Stability Control | Standard | Standard |
| Traction Control | Standard | Standard |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Hill Start Assist | Standard | Standard |
| Child Safety Lock | Standard | Standard |
| ISOFIX Mounts | Standard | 2 Rear ISOFIX Points |
| Brake Assist | Standard | Standard |
| Tyre Pressure Monitor | Standard | Not Available |
| Engine Immobiliser | Standard | Standard |
| Seatbelt Warning All Seats | Standard | All Seats |
| Front Parking Sensors | Standard | Not Available |
| AEB | Standard | Not Available |
| BA | Standard | Standard |
| Brake Override System | Standard | Not Available |
| Curtain Airbags | Standard | Not Available |
| Driver Airbag | Standard | 6 |
| EBD | Standard | Standard |
| Engine Immobiliser | Not Applicable | Standard |
| Hill Hold | Standard | Standard |
| Passenger Airbag | Standard | 6 |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Standard | Not Available |
| Seatbelt Pretensioners | Standard | All Seats |
| Seatbelt Reminder | Standard | All Seats |
| Side Airbags | Standard | Not Available |
| Stability Control | Standard | Standard |
| TCS | Standard | Standard |
| Knee Airbag | Not Available | Not Available |
| ABS EBD | Standard | Standard |
| Alarm System | - | Standard |
| Central Locking | - | Remote Central Locking |
| Side Impact Beams | - | Standard |
| Speed Alert System | - | Standard — Audible Warning at 120 km/h |
| Pedestrian Detection AEB | - | Not Available |
| Safety Rating | - | Not Independently Rated |
| Whiplash Protection | - | Active Head Restraints on Front Seats |
| Lane Change Warning | - | Not Available |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | - | Not Available |
| Anti Theft Alarm | - | Standard |
| Driver Front Passenger Airbags | - | 6 |
| Driver Passenger Airbags | - | 6 |
| ESC With Traction Control | - | Standard |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Swift |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Control | Standard | Standard |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Standard | Not Available |
| Lane Keep Assist | Standard | Not Available |
| Lane Departure Warning | Standard | Not Available |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Standard | Not Available |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Standard | Not Available |
| Parking Sensors | Standard | Rear Ultrasonic Sensors |
| Rear View Camera | Standard | Standard Reverse Camera |
| 360 Degree Camera | Standard | Not Available |
| Autonomous Emergency Braking | Standard | Not Available |
| Driver Fatigue Alert | Standard | Not Available |
| Traffic Sign Recognition | Standard | Not Available |
| Auto Highbeam | Standard | Not Available |
| Auto Wipers | Standard | Standard |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Standard | Rear Ultrasonic Sensors |
| Reverse Camera | Standard | Standard Reverse Camera |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Standard | Not Available |
| Park Assist | Standard | Not Available |
| Around View Monitor | Standard | Not Available |
| Blind Spot Warning | Standard | Not Available |
| Forward Collision Warning | Standard | Not Available |
| Auto Lights | - | Standard |
| EV Mode | - | Not Available |
| Emergency Braking | - | Not Available |
| Front Camera | - | Not Available |
| Parking Distance Sensors | - | Rear Ultrasonic Sensors |
| Parking Sensor | - | Rear Ultrasonic Sensors |
| Pre-Collision System | - | Not Available |
| Rain Sensor Wipers | - | Standard |
| Rear View Camera | - | Standard Reverse Camera |
| Reverse Camera Type | - | Standard Reverse Camera |
| Reversing Camera | - | Standard Reverse Camera |
| Surround View Camera | Standard | Not Available |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Swift |
|---|---|---|
| Seat Material | Synthetic leather | Fabric with Leatherette Inserts |
| Heated Seats | Not Available | Not Applicable |
| Ventilated Seats | Standard | Not Applicable |
| Ambient Lighting | Standard | Not Applicable |
| Steering Wheel Material | Synthetic leather | Urethane |
| 60 40 Split Seat | Standard | 60:40 Split Fold |
| Driver Seat Adjustment | 6-way electric | Manual 4-Way Driver Adjustment |
| Passenger Seat Adjustment | Electric adjustment | Manual 4-Way Driver Adjustment |
| Seat Trim | Synthetic leather | Fabric with Leatherette Inserts |
| Seat Adjustment | - | Manual 4-Way Driver Adjustment |
| Steering Type | - | Electric Power Assisted (EPAS) |
| Steering Adjustment | - | Tilt Adjustable |
| Folding Rear Seats | - | 60:40 Split Fold |
| Front Armrest | - | Not Available |
| Rear Armrest | - | Not Available |
| Front Shoulder Room | - | 1370 mm |
| Rear Shoulder Room | - | 1345 mm |
| Cup Holders | - | 4 |
| Rear AC Vents | - | Not Available |
| Rear USB Ports | - | 0 |
| Instrument Cluster Type | - | Analogue with Digital Trip MID |
| Interior Colour Options | - | 2 |
| Driver Lumbar Support | - | Not Available |
| Door Map Pockets | - | All Four Door Pockets |
| Adjustable Driver Seat | - | Manual 4-Way Driver Adjustment |
| Fabric Seats | - | Fabric with Leatherette Inserts |
| Armrest Front | - | Not Available |
| Armrest Rear | - | Not Available |
| Boot Space Seats Down | - | 579 |
| Driver Seat | - | Manual 4-Way Driver Adjustment |
| Interior Courtesy Lamps | - | 9-inch touchscreen on GLX with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, heads-up display on GLX, dual-zone climate control on GLX, leather-wrapped steering wheel on GLX, rear parking camera from GL+, dual front airbags standard, |
| Interior Trim Colour | - | 2 |
| Leather Accented Seat Trim | - | Fabric with Leatherette Inserts |
| Interior Colours | - | 2 |
| Rear Seat Centre Armrest | - | Not Available |
| Seat Adjustment Driver Backrest | - | Not Available |
| Seat Belt Warning | - | All Seats |
| Seat Fold Type | - | 60:40 Split Fold |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Swift |
|---|---|---|
| Climate Control | Automatic | Automatic Dual-Zone Climate Control |
| Power Windows | Standard | All Four Windows |
| Keyless Entry | Standard | Not Available |
| Push Button Start | Standard | Not Available |
| Wireless Charging | Standard | Not Available |
| Sunroof | Panoramic | Not Available |
| Electric Tailgate | Not Available | Not Available |
| Rain Sensing Wipers | Standard | Standard |
| AC Type | Automatic | Automatic Dual-Zone Climate Control |
| Load Bed Length | - | Not Applicable |
| Load Bed Width | - | Not Applicable |
| Automatic Headlamps | - | Standard |
| Auto Dimming Mirror | - | Not Available |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | - | 579 l |
| Boot Space Seats Folded | - | 579 l |
| Rear Window Defroster | - | Standard |
| Electric Mirror Folding | - | Electrically Adjustable Auto-Fold Mirrors |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | - | Standard — Driver Height Adjustable |
| Follow Me Home Headlamps | - | Not Available |
| 12V Accessory Socket | - | 1 x 12V Socket |
| Speed Limiter | - | Standard |
| Adaptive Dampers | - | Not Available |
| Auto Dimming Irvm | - | Not Available |
| Climate Zones | - | Automatic Dual-Zone Climate Control |
| Electric Folding Mirrors | - | All Four Windows |
| Engine Start Button Illumination | - | Not Available |
| Engine Start Stop | Standard | Not Available |
| Engine Start Stop Button | Standard | Not Available |
| Engine Warranty | - | 4 Years |
| Front Armrest | - | Not Available |
| Front Power Outlet | - | 1 x 12V Socket |
| Fuel Consumption Combined | - | 5 |
| Glovebox Cooling | - | All Four Door Pockets |
| Hill Start Assist | - | Standard |
| Panoramic Roof | Panoramic | Not Available |
| Performance Data Logger | - | Not Available |
| Power Mirrors | - | All Four Windows |
| Push Button Start | Standard | Not Available |
| Rear Defogger | - | Standard |
| Rear Seat Split | - | 60:40 Split Fold |
| Rear Wing | - | Not Available |
| Rev Matching | - | Not Available |
| Seat Type | - | Fabric with Leatherette Inserts |
| Seatbelt Pre Tensioner | - | All Seats |
| Skid Plates | - | Not Available |
| Spare Wheel | Tyre repair kit | Full Size Spare |
| Speed Alert System | - | Standard |
| Stabilizer Bar | - | Standard |
| Steering Mounted Controls | - | Standard |
| Telescopic Steering | - | Tilt Adjustable |
| Tilt Steering | - | Tilt Adjustable |
| Voice Command | - | Not Available |
| Voice Command Support | - | Not Available |
| Accelerator 0 100 | - | 12.5 sec |
| Air Conditioning | Automatic | Automatic Dual-Zone Climate Control |
| Battery Preconditioning | - | Not Available |
| Bed Extender | - | Not Available |
| Bottle Holders | - | 4 |
| Canopy Fitment | - | Not Available |
| Centre Console | - | Not Available |
| Common Rail Injection | - | Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI) |
| Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Difflock | - | Not Available |
| Digital Speedometer | - | Analogue with Digital Trip MID |
| Electric Fold Indicator Mirrors | - | Electrically Adjustable Auto-Fold Mirrors |
| Front Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Front Wiper | - | Standard |
| Front Wipers Type | - | Standard |
| Glove Box | - | All Four Door Pockets |
| Intelligent Battery System | - | Not Available |
| Intelligent Keyless Entry | - | Not Available |
| Lift Gate | - | Not Available |
| 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 | - | Automatic Dual-Zone Climate Control |
| Mirror | - | Manual Fold Black Mirrors |
| One Pedal Driving | - | Not Available |
| Passive Entry Start | - | Not Available |
| Power Socket 12v | - | 1 x 12V Socket |
| Powered Tailgate | - | Not Available |
| Rear Air Conditioning | - | Not Available |
| Rear Diff Lock | - | Not Available |
| Rear Electric Motor | - | Not Available |
| Rearview Mirror Inside | - | Not Available |
| Regenerative Braking Levels | - | Not Available |
| Remote Central Locking | - | Remote Central Locking |
| Remote Side Mirror | - | Manual Fold Black Mirrors |
| Rim Size | 17 | 15 Inches |
| Roof Rack Compatibility | - | Not Available |
| Side Impact Bars | - | Standard |
| Sonar | - | Rear Ultrasonic Sensors |
| Sound System | 6 | 6 |
| Source Model Column | - | swift |
| Sport Plus Mode | - | Not Available |
| Sports Bar | - | Not Available |
| Stabilizer Bar Front | - | Standard |
| Stabilizer Bar Rear | - | Standard |
| Steering Column Adjustment | - | Tilt Adjustable |
| Sub Frame | - | HEARTECT Monocoque Platform |
| Surround View Monitor | Standard | Not Available |
| Tailgate Damper | - | Not Available |
| Tailgate Lock | - | Not Available |
| Tow Bar Type | - | Not Available |
| TPMS | Standard | Not Available |
| Trim Level | - | flagship |
| Unlocking | Standard | Not Available |
| Variant Role | - | Flagship / premium derivative |
| Vdc | - | Standard |
| Vehicle To Grid | - | Not Available |
| Vehicle To Load | - | Not Available |
| Walk Away Auto Door Lock | - | Not Available |
| Walk Away Lock | - | Not Available |
| Wireless Charger | Standard | Not Available |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Swift |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment System | 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen | 9-inch Touchscreen |
| Apple CarPlay | Standard | Wired Apple CarPlay |
| Android Auto | Standard | Wired Android Auto |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Standard | Bluetooth Audio |
| Number of Speakers | 6 | 6 |
| Digital Instrument Cluster | Full LCD instrument display | 9-inch Digital Cluster |
| USB Ports | Front and rear USB-A/USB-C ports | 2 |
| Infotainment Screen | 12.8 | 9-inch Touchscreen |
| Touchscreen | 12.8 | 9-inch Touchscreen |
| Navigation System | - | Not Available |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | Standard | Wired Apple CarPlay |
| Wireless Android Auto | Standard | Wired Android Auto |
| FM Radio | - | Standard |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Standard |
| Voice Recognition | - | Not Available |
| AUX Input | - | Not Available |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 12.8 | 9-inch Touchscreen |
| Wi-Fi Hotspot | - | Not Available |
| Audio Controls On Steering | - | Standard |
| Infotainment Display | - | 9-inch Touchscreen |
| Rear Usb | - | 2 |
| Audio | - | Standard |
| Audio Speakers | 6 | 6 |
| Audio System | - | Standard |
| Display Audio | - | 9-inch Touchscreen |
| Front Rear USB Charge Ports | - | 2 |
| Multi Information Display | - | Analogue with Digital Trip MID |
| Connected Services | - | Bluetooth Audio |
| Voice Control | - | Not Available |
| Smartphone Connectivity | - | Wired Apple CarPlay |
| Radio | - | Standard |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Swift |
|---|---|---|
| LED Headlamps | Standard | LED Projector Headlamps |
| Daytime Running Lamps | LED | LED DRLs |
| Fog Lamps | Rear fog lamp | Front Fog Lamps |
| Roof Rails | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Exterior Colour Options | Atlantis Grey + Black, Blue + Grey, Ski White + Grey | 7 |
| Headlights | Standard | LED Projector Headlamps |
| Panoramic Sunroof | Standard | Not Available |
| Alloy Wheel Design | - | 15-inch Polished Alloy Wheels |
| Chrome Exterior Finish | - | Not Available |
| Body Cladding | - | Not Available |
| Rear Spoiler | - | Not Available |
| Roof Type | - | Standard Fixed Roof |
| Wing Mirror Type | - | Manual Fold Black Mirrors |
| Rear Wiper | - | Standard |
| Door Handle Finish | - | Body-Coloured Door Handles |
| Body Type | - | Hatchback |
| DRL | LED | LED DRLs |
| Fog Lights | - | Front Fog Lamps |
| Front Fog Lights | - | Front Fog Lamps |
| Led Headlights | Standard | LED Projector Headlamps |
| Auto Headlights | - | Standard |
| Automatic Headlamps | - | Standard |
| Daytime Running Lights | LED | LED DRLs |
| Electric Blind Sunroof | - | Not Available |
| Exterior Colour Options | - | 8 |
| Exterior Door Handle Colour | - | Body-Coloured Door Handles |
| Exterior Mirror Electric | - | All Four Windows |
| Exterior Mirror Folding | - | Electrically Adjustable Auto-Fold Mirrors |
| Front Fog Lamps | Rear fog lamp | Front Fog Lamps |
| Headlamp Levelling | - | LED Projector Headlamps |
| Headlamps | Standard | LED Projector Headlamps |
| Headlight Type | Standard | LED Projector Headlamps |
| Load Bed Liner | - | Not Available |
| Active Exhaust | - | Not Available |
| Rear Spoiler | - | Not Available |
| Sunroof Slide | - | Not Available |
| Sunroof Tilt | - | Not Available |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Swift |
|---|---|---|
| Approach Angle | 16 deg | 17 deg |
| Departure Angle | 23 deg | 22 deg |
| Wading Depth | Not Applicable | 0 mm |
| Terrain Modes | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Locking Differential | Not Available | Not Applicable |
| 4WD System Type | Not Applicable | Not Applicable |
| Breakover Angle | Not Applicable | 0 deg |
| Underbody Protection | - | Not Available |
| Ramp Breakover Angle | - | 0 deg |
| Recovery Hooks | - | 1 Rear Tow Hook |
| Hill Descent Control | Not Applicable | Not Available |
| Ramp-over Angle | - | 0 deg |
| Approach Angle Deg | - | 17 deg |
| Departure Angle Deg | - | 22 deg |
| Energy Recovery Display | - | Not Available |
| Front Skid Plate Guard | - | Not Available |
| Ground Clearance Max | - | 145 mm |
| Ground Clearance Min | - | 145 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 | - | 0 mm |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Swift |
|---|---|---|
| Tyre Size | 205/50 R17 | 185/65 R15 |
| Front Brake Type | Ventilated disc | Ventilated Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Disc | Drum |
| Spare Wheel Type | Tyre repair kit | Full Size Spare |
| Wheel Rim Size | 17 | 15 Inches |
| Handbrake Type | Electronic parking brake | Conventional Handbrake |
| Wheel Type | - | 15-inch Polished Alloy Wheels |
| Front Brake Disc Diameter | - | 258 mm |
| Rear Brake Drum Diameter | - | 200 mm |
| Parking Brake Type | - | Conventional Handbrake |
| Tyre Load Index | - | 88 |
| Tyre Speed Rating | - | H |
| Brake Type Front | - | Ventilated Disc |
| Brake Type Rear | - | Drum |
| Spare Tyre | Tyre repair kit | Full Size Spare |
| Tyre Type | - | 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel Diameter | 17 | 15 Inches |
| Auto Brake Hold | - | Conventional Handbrake |
| Autonomous Emergency Brake | - | Not Available |
| Brakes | - | Ventilated Disc |
| Cornering Brake Control | - | Standard |
| Electric Park Brake | - | Conventional Handbrake |
| Fifth Wheel Prep | - | Not Available |
| Hydraulic Brake Assist | - | Standard |
| Leather Steering Wheel | - | Urethane |
| Spare Wheel Size Type | - | Full Size Spare |
| Steering Wheel Audio Controls | - | Standard |
| Steering Wheel Cruise Controls | - | Standard |
| Steering Wheel Phone Controls | - | Standard |
| Steering Wheel Trim | - | Urethane |
| Tyre Pressure Display | - | Not Available |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring | Standard | Not Available |
| Wheel Material | - | 15-inch Polished Alloy Wheels |
| Wheel Size Type | - | 15 Inches |
| Wheels | - | 15-inch Polished Alloy Wheels |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Swift |
|---|---|---|
| Front Suspension | MacPherson strut | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-link | Torsion Beam with Coil Spring |
| Front Track Width | - | 1480 mm |
| Rear Track Width | - | 1480 mm |
| Chassis Type | - | HEARTECT Monocoque Platform |
| Power Steering | - | Electric Power Assisted (EPAS) |
| Steering Column | - | Tilt Adjustable |
| Front Spring Type | - | Coil Spring |
| Rear Spring Type | - | Coil Spring |
| Front Anti-Roll Bar | - | Standard |
| Rear Anti-Roll Bar | - | Standard |
| Shock Absorber Type | - | Telescopic Gas Dampers |
| Chassis Material | - | HEARTECT Monocoque Platform |
| Front Suspension Type | MacPherson strut | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring |
| MagneRide Damping | - | Not Available |
| Rear Axle Type | - | Torsion Beam with Coil Spring |
| Rear Suspension Type | Multi-link | Torsion Beam with Coil Spring |
| Shock Absorbers | - | Telescopic Gas Dampers |
| Suspension | - | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Swift |
|---|---|---|
| CO2 Emissions | 0 g/km | 114 g/km |
| Start Stop System | - | Not Available |
| Hybrid System Type | - | Not Applicable |
| Noise Level | - | 67 dB |
| Variable Valve Timing | - | Dual VVT on Intake and Exhaust |
| Fuel Octane Requirement | - | 93 RON Unleaded |
| Particulate Filter | - | Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF) |
| Euro Emission Standard | - | Euro 5 |
| Green NCAP Rating | - | Not Independently Rated |
| Idle CO2 Output | - | Within Euro 5 Limits |
| Fuel Evaporation Control | - | Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) |
| CO2 Emissions G Km | - | 114 |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Swift |
|---|---|---|
| Service Plan | 3 years/60000 km service plan | Not Included |
| Service Interval | - | 15,000 km or 12 Months |
| Approx Service Cost | - | Approx R2,000–R2,500 per Service |
| Battery Warranty | - | 12 Months |
| Maintenance Plan | - | Not Included |
| Engine Oil Capacity | - | 3.1 l |
| Engine Oil Change Interval | - | 10,000 km or 6 Months |
| First Service At | - | 1,000 km Inspection |
| Service Plan Duration | 3 years/60000 km service plan | Not Included |
| Service Plan Distance | 3 years/60000 km service plan | Not Included |
| Anti-Rust Treatment | - | Underbody Rust Protection |
| Service Intervals | - | 15,000 km or 12 Months |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Swift |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Role | extended-range derivative | Flagship |
| Price Zar | 602900 ZAR | 296900 ZAR |
| Pricing Role | extended-range derivative | Current listed price |
| Starting Price | 602900 | 296900 |
| Starting Price Zar | 602900 | 296900 |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Swift |
|---|---|---|
| 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 Roadside Assistance |
| Anti-Corrosion Warranty | - | 3 Years Anti-Corrosion |
| 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 Roadside Assistance |
| Warranty Roadside Assistance | - | 5 Years Roadside Assistance |
| Spec | DOLPHIN | Swift |
|---|---|---|
| Real-world City Mileage Min | - | 5.5 l/100km |
| Real-world City Mileage Max | - | 7.0 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Min | - | 4.0 l/100km |
| Real-world Highway Mileage Max | - | 5.5 l/100km |
| Owner Review Count | - | 0 |
In depth: how these cars differ
This DOLPHIN and Swift 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 Swift 28.
Efficiency index: DOLPHIN 90 vs Swift 75.
Safety-equipment index: DOLPHIN 98 vs Swift 86.
Practicality index: DOLPHIN 56 vs Swift 52.
Ownership-cover index: DOLPHIN not separately scored vs Swift 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 Swift image comparison
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BYD DOLPHIN
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Suzuki Swift
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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 16 points
DOLPHIN holds a noticeable catalogue-index lead over Swift.
Evidence leader
76
/100
Lead
16
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 16 points
60
#2
Swift
88% source coverage
3 strong categories
Best at
Safety 86
Check
Performance 28
Performance
28
Efficiency
75
Safety
86
Practicality
52
Ownership
71
Performance 24%
Safety 22%
Practicality 22%
Efficiency 17%
Ownership 15%
Category leaders
What moves the verdict
Performance
DOLPHIN +38
Efficiency
DOLPHIN +15
Safety
DOLPHIN +12
Practicality
DOLPHIN +4
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
Swift
Performance
28/100
Efficiency
75/100
Safety
86/100
Practicality
52/100
Ownership
71/100
What the evidence means
Evidence index
BYD DOLPHIN
leads the specification evidence index with 76 pts
vs 60 pts for Swift
In Hagalu's specification evidence index, DOLPHIN leads. However, Swift may suit buyers prioritising different confirmed fields. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your driving priorities in South Africa.
Related comparisons
Continue with closely related South Africa models and comparable body styles.
DOLPHIN vs Swift 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.