What's the best CHEAP electric car? MG4 vs BYD Dolphin vs Citroen e-C3 review!

[George]

Here's a detailed comparison of three of the most affordable electric cars currently gaining attention: the MG4, BYD Dolphin, and Citroën e-C3. Each offers compelling value, but they cater to slightly different priorities. Let’s break down their features:

1. MG4 Electric​

Dimensions and Design​

• Length: 4,287 mm (168.8 inches)
• Width: 1,836 mm (72.3 inches)
• Height: 1,506 mm (59.3 inches)
• Ground Clearance: 150 mm (5.9 inches)
• Trunk Size: 363 liters (12.8 cubic feet).

Performance and Range​

• Battery Size: 51 kWh (Standard Range) or 64 kWh (Long Range).
• Range: 218-281 miles (WLTP).
• Horsepower: 170 hp (51 kWh) or 203 hp (64 kWh).
• Towing Capacity: 500 kg (1,102 lbs).
• Consumption: ~15.5 kWh/100 km.

Pricing​

• Base Price: Approx. $29,000.

Equipment and Features​

• Extras: Modern interior, 10.25-inch infotainment screen, and wireless smartphone connectivity.
• Safety: 5-star Euro NCAP rating, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist.
• Maintenance Cost: ~$300-$500/year.
• Tire Sizes: 17-inch or 18-inch alloys.

Pros and Cons​

• Pros: Excellent value for money, spacious interior, competitive range.
• Cons: Infotainment system can be slow.

2. BYD Dolphin​

Dimensions and Design​

• Length: 4,125 mm (162.4 inches)
• Width: 1,770 mm (69.7 inches)
• Height: 1,570 mm (61.8 inches)
• Ground Clearance: 145 mm (5.7 inches)
• Trunk Size: 345 liters (12.2 cubic feet).

Performance and Range​

• Battery Size: 44.9 kWh or 60.4 kWh.
• Range: 193-265 miles (WLTP).
• Horsepower: 94 hp (Standard) or 201 hp (Extended).
• Towing Capacity: 750 kg (1,653 lbs).
• Consumption: ~14.7 kWh/100 km.

Pricing​

• Base Price: Approx. $25,000.

Equipment and Features​

• Extras: Futuristic interior with a rotating touchscreen and plenty of tech.
• Safety: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) included.
• Maintenance Cost: ~$400/year.
• Tire Sizes: 16-inch or 17-inch options.

Pros and Cons​

• Pros: Attractive pricing, modern tech, and robust build.
• Cons: Smaller trunk, rear seat space slightly cramped.

3. Citroën e-C3​

Dimensions and Design​

• Length: 3,986 mm (156.9 inches)
• Width: 1,749 mm (68.9 inches)
• Height: 1,525 mm (60 inches)
• Ground Clearance: 170 mm (6.7 inches).
• Trunk Size: 267 liters (9.4 cubic feet).

Performance and Range​

• Battery Size: 29.2 kWh.
• Range: 199 miles (WLTP).
• Horsepower: 83 hp.
• Towing Capacity: N/A.
• Consumption: ~12.6 kWh/100 km.

Pricing​

• Base Price: Approx. $22,000.

Equipment and Features​

• Extras: Simple interior with a focus on affordability.
• Safety: Basic safety features like emergency braking and lane assist.
• Maintenance Cost: ~$250/year.
• Tire Sizes: 15-inch steel wheels or optional alloys.

Pros and Cons​

• Pros: Most affordable EV, great for urban use, and low running costs.
• Cons: Limited power and smaller battery, less premium feel.

Overall Comparison​

Feature	MG4	BYD Dolphin	Citroën e-C3
Base Price	$29,000	$25,000	$22,000
Range	218-281 miles	193-265 miles	199 miles
Horsepower	170-203 hp	94-201 hp	83 hp
Trunk Size	363 liters	345 liters	267 liters
Towing Capacity	500 kg	750 kg	N/A
Safety	5-star Euro NCAP	Advanced ADAS	Basic features
Infotainment	Modern	Rotating screen	Minimalist

Best Choice​

• MG4: Best overall, with great range, power, and space.
• BYD Dolphin: Offers modern tech and the best towing capacity.
• Citroën e-C3: Ideal for those on a tight budget needing an urban EV.

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