BYD Dolphin vs Jaecoo J5
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular cars compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The BYD Dolphin starts from $29,990 before on-road costs, while the Jaecoo J5 opens at $25,990. That makes the Jaecoo J5 the more affordable entry point by $4,000.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $32,989 and $28,589 respectively.
The BYD Dolphin qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Jaecoo J5, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The BYD Dolphin features a 12.8-inch touchscreen, while the Jaecoo J5 gets a 13.2-inch display and 8.9-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BYD Dolphin stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on the Jaecoo J5. The Jaecoo J5 counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The BYD Dolphin uses a Electric producing 70kW and 180Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.5 seconds.
The Jaecoo J5 responds with a 1.5L Turbo Petrol making 108kW and 210Nm, paired to a cvt driving the front wheels.
The Jaecoo J5 has the clear power advantage at 108kW vs 70kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The BYD Dolphin measures 4,290mm long on a 2,700mm wheelbase, 90mm shorter than the Jaecoo J5 at 4,380mm (2,620mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the BYD Dolphin generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 308L in the BYD Dolphin and 384L in the Jaecoo J5, giving the Jaecoo J5 a 76L advantage.
0Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.4m diameter
Good
Based on 10.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 6 years / 150,000km (BYD Dolphin) vs 8 years (Jaecoo J5). The Jaecoo J5 has longer coverage. Capped-price servicing: —8yr (Jaecoo J5).
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BYD Dolphin if: You or prefer BYD's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Jaecoo J5 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, need more boot space, value a longer warranty, or prefer Jaecoo's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Jaecoo J5 takes 5 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the Jaecoo J5 has a clear edge. The Jaecoo J5 adds peace of mind with a longer 8-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, BYD Dolphin and Jaecoo J5?
The Jaecoo J5 is the cheapest at $25,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the BYD Dolphin by $4,000.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Jaecoo J5 uses the least fuel at 7.5L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — BYD Dolphin all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Jaecoo J5 has the largest boot at 384L.
Which can tow the most?
The Jaecoo J5 has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,250kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Jaecoo J5 has the longest warranty at 8 years.
Which is the most powerful?
The Jaecoo J5 makes the most power at 108kW.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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