Don’t fancy a BYD Atto 2? Here are our top 10 compact SUV alternatives!

January 22, 2025 by

BYD aims to make a big splash in the compact SUV segment with the Atto 2, with a focus on interior space and value for money. It’s going up against some stiff competition though, with plenty of stylish, high-tech and practical options on the market right now. Here are 10 of the best alternatives.

  1. Skoda Elroq
  2. Kia EV3
  3. Smart #1
  4. Hyundai Kona
  5. Ford Explorer
  6. BMW iX1
  7. VW ID.3
  8. Mini Aceman
  9. Volvo EX30
  10. Jeep Avenger

1. Skoda Elroq

Skoda has a long-standing reputation for building no-nonsense, practical family cars, and the Elroq is the latest example. It offers loads of interior space, decent range and all the latest tech, all while being sold at a competitive price point. It starts from just under £32,000, not bad for an electric SUV which can tackle family life with ease.

2. Kia EV3

New Kia EV3 front quarter static

Another strong contender in the segment is the Kia EV3. With a bold, angular design, impressive range, and fair pricing, the Korean SUV is a great choice for anyone looking to go electric. Its 7-year Kia warranty adds further appeal, although the constant warning bongs can get annoying after a while.

3. Smart #1

Gone are the days where Smart sells just the tiny FourTwo, the Smart #1 competes directly with the BYD Atto 2. It’s the more stylish of the two options, and that applies to the interior as well. While the funky looks are great, the laggy and complex infotainment system isn’t quite so good.

4. Hyundai Kona Electric

Hyundai Kona Electric

The electric Kona is another great electric SUV option, offering generous standard equipment and ample space for passengers and luggage. With 466 litres of boot space, expandable to 1,300 litres, plus an additional 27-litre front boot, the Kona is among the more practical compact electric SUVs. Even with the smallest battery, it delivers 234 miles of range.

5. Ford Explorer

The electric Ford Explorer shares a lot of parts with the Volkswagen ID.4. It may be a bit too pricey for prospective BYD Atto 2 buyers but offers larger dimensions, more space, and good range. However, the infotainment system isn’t the best to use and the suspension is quite bouncy.

6. BMW iX1

BMW iX1 front

The BMW iX1 is a premium option in the compact SUV segment. It’s quite a lot more expensive than the Atto 2, but it’s also bigger and therefore should prove more practical. The spacious interior is a strong selling point, and it’s good fun to drive. However, the BMW doesn’t offer the best range and the charging speed isn’t great either.

7. Volkswagen ID.3

The Volkswagen ID3 may not be an SUV, but it’s a similar size to the BYD Atto 2. While it has slightly less interior space for passengers and luggage, the ID.3 compensates with good range and solid charging speeds. It also provides decent comfort on long journeys, making it a compelling alternative to the BYD Atto 2.

8. Mini Aceman

The Aceman is Mini’s new entrant into the small electric SUV market. This quirky car takes the desirability of the tiny three-door Cooper Electric and wraps it up in a bigger, high-riding body. When it comes to driving fun and agility, few can match the Mini. However, the range isn’t brilliant and it’s not as practical as other SUVs.

9. Volvo EX30

Volvo’s entry-level model impresses with its design, range, and strong performance. The funky exterior styling gives way to a lovely interior which is packed with tech, however it’s not the most spacious. Still, it’s easy to forgive this thanks to the impressive range and blistering performance you get from the dual-motor version.

10. Jeep Avenger

Jeep’s first electric model, the Avenger, is a compact SUV which offers rugged styling and loads of standard equipment. It may feel a bit cheap inside, and it’s not all that practical, but it’s a comfy thing to drive around town and it’s offered at an affordable price.

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