May 27, 2026

TheAutoPH

The latest in Philippine motoring

Is the BYD Atto 2 getting a plug-in hybrid DM-i variant in PH?

We all know that the BYD Atto 2 is coming to the Philippines, previewed by BYD Cars Philippines back in April at the 2026 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS), and expected to come with a fully electric powertrain. But there’s more.

Based on available information, it looks like the subcompact crossover will also be getting a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain which could come in Dynamic and Premium variants, while the fully electric variant will be solely available in Premium guise.

Powering the BYD Atto 2 DM-i will be a 1.5-liter gasoline engine that powers a single electric motor that produces 165 horsepower and 300Nm of torque. With a 7.9kWh LFP battery, it should be able to drive up to 45km on full electric propulsion, or up to 1,045km on combined fuel and electricity.

As a recap, the EV version will be powered by a single front-mounted electric motor that makes 177 horsepower and 290Nm of torque, paired to a 45.1kWh LFP battery that allows for a range of up to 380km on a single full charge.

Design and equipment are expected to be similar to the full EV, coming with full LED exterior lighting, an 8.8-inch LCD display for the driver, and options of a 10.1-inch or 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and a six-speaker audio system, just to name a few.

Differences between the EV and DM-i variants could include 17-inch alloy wheels and the Di-Pilot suite of ADAS for the DM-i Premium. Both DM-i variants will also get fabric seat upholstery, manually adjustable front seats, and rear airconditioning vents; while the EV will get leather seat upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat.

And while BYD Cars Philippines may seem to have slowed down a bit when it comes to new model introductions, the imminent arrival of the Atto 2 in both EV and DM-i form surely sounds promising. Not only will buyers have more options within the model itself, it could also compete with popular budget SUV offerings such as the Toyota Raize and Kia Sonet.