MG MG4 vs BYD Dolphin: Budget EV Battle
The two cheapest EVs in Australia, which one makes more sense?
MG MG4 Excite 64
From $38,990
Hatchback
Single Motor Electric
150kW
16.2 kWh/100km
5★ ANCAP
363L
BYD Dolphin Extended Range
From $38,890
Hatchback
Single Motor Electric
150kW
13.8 kWh/100km
5★ ANCAP
345L
Price Breakdown
Virtually identical at ~$39k. Running costs are similar. both cost ~$700/year in electricity. The real cost difference comes at resale: both are Chinese brands with uncertain long-term residual values, so depreciation is the biggest unknown for both.
Safety Rundown
Both 5-star ANCAP. Both have AEB, lane keep, blind spot monitoring. The MG4 has a slightly higher adult occupant score; the Dolphin has better pedestrian protection. In practice, both are very safe small cars.
Feature Showdown
The Dolphin's interior is more playful. a rotating 12.8-inch screen, colourful trim options, and BYD's Blade Battery (one of the safest battery chemistries). The MG4 has a more conventional interior with a 10.25-inch screen, but offers a sportier driving position and better cargo space.
Drivetrain
Same power output (150kW), but different battery chemistry and drivetrain layout. The Dolphin's LFP Blade Battery is one of the safest in the industry, while the MG4's NMC pack offers higher energy density.
| Drivetrain Spec | MG4 Excite 64 | Dolphin Extended |
|---|---|---|
| Drive Layout | Single Motor RWD | Single Motor FWD |
| Power | 150kW | 150kW |
| Torque | 250Nm | 310Nm |
| Battery | 64 kWh (NMC) | 60.4 kWh (LFP Blade) |
| Efficiency | 16.2 kWh/100km | 13.8 kWh/100km |
| WLTP Range | 450km | 427km |
| Max DC Charge | 140kW | 88kW |
| Drag Coefficient | Cd 0.275 | Cd 0.311 |
| 0-100 km/h | 7.9s | 7.0s |
Battery chemistry matters: The Dolphin's LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) Blade Battery is safer in crash scenarios, handles full 100% charges without degradation, and has a longer cycle life (~3,000+ cycles). The MG4's NMC battery has higher energy density (hence more range from a larger pack) but should ideally be kept between 20-80% for longevity.
The Dolphin's better efficiency (13.8 vs 16.2 kWh/100km) is impressive given its worse aerodynamics. the FWD layout and lighter weight help. But the MG4's 140kW DC charging vs 88kW is the biggest practical difference on road trips.
Space & Comfort
The Dolphin's cabin is more characterful and fun. The MG4 is more conventional but slightly more practical.
| Interior Spec | MG4 Excite 64 | Dolphin Extended |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4,287mm | 4,290mm |
| Width | 1,836mm | 1,770mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,705mm | 2,700mm |
| Boot Space | 363L | 345L |
| Boot (seats down) | 1,177L | 1,310L |
| Screen | 10.25" | 12.8" rotating |
| Digital Cluster | 7" | 5" + HUD projection |
| NVH (Cabin Noise) | Average | Quieter |
The Dolphin surprises with 1,310L of cargo space with seats folded. 133L more than the MG4 despite a smaller boot with seats up. The MG4 has a sportier, lower driving position. The Dolphin sits higher with more headroom.
BYD's rotating 12.8-inch screen is a party trick but genuinely useful. portrait for navigation, landscape for media. The MG4's interior is functional but forgettable.
True Cost to Own
At virtually the same price (~$39k), the 5-year cost comparison comes down to running costs and depreciation. and depreciation is the big unknown for both Chinese brands.
| Annual Cost | MG4 Excite 64 | Dolphin Extended |
|---|---|---|
| Electricity (15,000km) | $729 | $621 |
| Insurance (est.) | $1,500 | $1,400 |
| Servicing | $350 | $350 |
| Tyres (amortised) | $300 | $280 |
| Registration | $150 | $150 |
| Total Annual | $3,029 | $2,801 |
The Dolphin saves ~$228/year in running costs thanks to its better efficiency. Over 5 years, that's $1,140.
The Depreciation Unknown
Both are Chinese brands with limited resale track records in Australia. Estimated 5-year retention: 45-50% for both. On a $39k car, that's $19,500-21,500 in depreciation. by far the biggest ownership cost. MG has a slight edge with longer market presence in Australia, but BYD's global scale may help long-term.
The MG4's 7-year warranty (vs 6 for BYD) provides one extra year of coverage, which matters for resale confidence.
The Charging Gap
This is the MG4's biggest advantage: 140kW DC fast charging vs 88kW for the Dolphin. In real terms, the MG4 charges from 10-80% in about 35 minutes; the Dolphin takes 50+ minutes. On a long road trip, that's a 30-minute difference per stop.
If you mainly charge at home and rarely use DC fast chargers, this doesn't matter. If you road trip regularly, it's a deal-breaker for the Dolphin.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the MG4 if: You road trip, want faster DC charging, more range, and a 7-year warranty.
Buy the Dolphin if: You want better efficiency for city driving, quicker acceleration, and prefer BYD's more characterful interior design.
The Verdict
Nearly identical price, both great EVs. The MG4 wins on range (23km more), DC charging speed (140kW vs 88kW. massive difference on road trips), boot space, warranty length, and aerodynamics. The Dolphin wins on efficiency, torque, acceleration, and has a more characterful interior. For road trippers, the MG4's faster charging is the decisive factor. For city commuters who rarely fast-charge, the Dolphin's superior efficiency and driving feel make it the better daily.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (3 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. All opinions are editorial and independent. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 3 April 2026
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