GWM ORA 5 vs BYD Atto 3
Two electric SUVs go head to head. Which EV is the better buy for Australian drivers in 2026?
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 GWM ORA 5 starts from $33,990 before on-road costs, while the BYD Atto 3 opens at $39,990. That makes the GWM ORA 5 the more affordable entry point by $6,000.
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 $37,389 and $43,989 respectively.
Both models qualify for Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemption, which is a significant advantage for salary-sacrificed novated leases. Depending on your tax bracket, this can save $5,000-$15,000+ per year compared to an equivalent ICE vehicle.
Safety Rundown
Both the GWM ORA 5 and BYD Atto 3 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 92% for the GWM ORA 5 and 82% for the BYD Atto 3.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. Both models are evenly matched with 6 out of 10 key ADAS systems.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the GWM ORA 5 and 7 in the BYD Atto 3.
Feature Showdown
The GWM ORA 5 features a 14.6-inch touchscreen, while the BYD Atto 3 gets a 12.8-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The GWM ORA 5 stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and V2L that you will not find on the BYD Atto 3. The BYD Atto 3 counters with Apple CarPlay and Dirac audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The GWM ORA 5 uses a Electric producing 150kW and 260Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout.
The BYD Atto 3 responds with a Electric making 150kW and 310Nm, paired to a auto driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.3 seconds.
Power output is identical on paper, so the difference comes down to tuning, weight distribution, and suspension. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 58.3kWh (GWM ORA 5) vs 49.9kWh (BYD Atto 3), giving WLTP ranges of 430km and 345km. DC fast charging peaks at 120kW (GWM ORA 5) vs 80kW (BYD Atto 3).
Space & Comfort
The GWM ORA 5 measures 4,471mm long on a 2,720mm wheelbase, 16mm longer than the BYD Atto 3 at 4,455mm (2,720mm wheelbase).
Boot space is 362L in the GWM ORA 5 and 440L in the BYD Atto 3, giving the BYD Atto 3 a 78L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.0m diameter
Good
Based on 11.0m 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: 7 years / 999,999km (GWM ORA 5) vs 6 years / 150,000km (BYD Atto 3). The GWM ORA 5 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the GWM ORA 5 if: You want the lower entry price, value a longer warranty, or prefer GWM's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BYD Atto 3 if: You need more boot space, or prefer BYD's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The GWM ORA 5 takes 7 of 8 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the BYD Atto 3 has a clear edge. The GWM ORA 5 adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
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.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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