The BYD Atto 8 is the latest addition to the Chinese brand’s line-up in South Africa. Unlike the Sealion 7, which is a midsize fully electric coupe-SUV, the Atto 8 is a large seven-seater plug-in hybrid SUV designed to combine practicality with extended driving range. It is offered locally in two versions: Premium and Performance AWD.
What is it and where does it fit in?
The Atto 8 sits at the top of BYD’s SUV range, positioned as a family-oriented flagship with three rows of seating. It blends electric driving capability with the reassurance of a petrol engine, making it suitable for long-distance travel while still offering zero-emission commuting in urban settings.
Engine:
The Premium model delivers a combined maximum output of 205kW, while the Performance AWD raises this to 359kW. The 1500 turbopetrol engine in both models deliver 110kW and 220 Nm. The Premium model has one electric motor while the Performance adds a second motor. Both versions use BYD’s plug-in hybrid system, with battery capacities of 19kWh (Premium) and 35.6kWh (Performance), enabling pure electric ranges of 75km and 130km respectively.
Interior:
Inside, the Atto 8 offers a spacious cabin with a 2+3+2 seating layout. The dashboard features a full LCD instrument panel and a 15.6-inch touchscreen with DiLink infotainment, supporting CarPlay and Android Auto. Comfort is enhanced with electric seat adjustment, ventilation options, and three-zone climate control. Cargo space ranges from 270 litres with all seats upright to 1 960 litres with the second row folded.
Exterior:
The Atto 8 measures 5 040 mm in length and rides on alloy wheels sized 20 inches for the Premium and 21 inches for the Performance. Both versions feature flush-mounted door handles, LED headlamps, panoramic sunroof, and dynamic lighting elements. The design emphasises a modern, aerodynamic profile with practical touches such as roof racks and an electric tailgate.
Differences between the two Atto 8 models:
The Premium is front-wheel drive, lighter at 2 315kg, and focuses on efficiency with a combined fuel consumption of 6.9 L/100 km. The Performance AWD adds smart all-wheel drive, higher outputs, larger wheels, and a more powerful battery, though its combined range is slightly lower at 844km compared to the Premium’s 892km.
Prices and warranties:
The Atto 8 Premium is priced at R1 059 900, while the Performance AWD starts at R1 259 900. Both models are backed by BYD’s standard warranty, a 5‑year/100 000km vehicle warranty, a 5‑year/100 000km powertrain warranty, an 8‑year/200 000km battery warranty, and a 5‑year/100 000km maintenance plan.
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