EV Comparison

BYD Dolphin Essential vs MG MG4 Excite 51: Which Is Better in 2026?

Side-by-side comparison of specs, pricing, range, charging, and features to help you choose the right electric vehicle.

Quick Verdict

The BYD Dolphin Essential is slightly more affordable at $32,699. Only the MG MG4 Excite 51 can tow (500 kg). The BYD Dolphin Essential adds vehicle-to-load.

Side-by-Side Specs

Spec
BYD Dolphin Essential

BYD

Dolphin Essential

MG MG4 Excite 51

MG

MG4 Excite 51

Price
$32,699
$37,990
Range (WLTP)
340 km
350 km
Battery
44.9 kWh
51 kWh
DC Charging
60 kW
87 kW
0 to 100 km/h
7s
7.7s
Top Speed
150 km/h
160 km/h
Drive Type
FWD
RWD
Towing
None
500 kg
V2L
Yes
No
V2H
No
No
Seats
5
5
Body Style
hatchback
hatchback
Warranty
6 yr / 150,000 km
7 yr

Key Differences

Price

The BYD Dolphin Essential starts at $32,699, while the MG MG4 Excite 51 comes in at $37,990. That is a difference of $5,291, which could influence your decision if budget is a priority.

Range

The MG MG4 Excite 51 delivers 350 km of WLTP range compared to 340 km for the BYD Dolphin Essential. For most daily commutes, both should be more than adequate.

Charging Speed

The MG MG4 Excite 51 charges faster with a peak DC rate of 87 kW versus 60 kW. Faster DC charging means less time waiting at public chargers on road trips.

Towing

The MG MG4 Excite 51 supports towing up to 500 kg, while the BYD Dolphin Essential has no towing capacity. If you need to tow a trailer, boat, or caravan, the MG MG4 Excite 51 is the only option here.

Vehicle-to-Load (V2L)

The BYD Dolphin Essential includes V2L, letting you power appliances, tools, or camping gear directly from the car's battery. The MG MG4 Excite 51 does not offer this feature.

Which Should You Buy?

Choose the BYD Dolphin Essential if...

  • You want a lower price point ($32,699 vs $37,990)
  • Vehicle-to-load (V2L) for powering devices on the go is important
  • You want quicker acceleration (7s vs 7.7s)

Choose the MG MG4 Excite 51 if...

  • Faster DC charging matters to you (87 kW vs 60 kW)
  • You need towing capacity (500 kg)
  • A longer warranty gives you peace of mind (7 vs 6 years)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the BYD Dolphin Essential or MG MG4 Excite 51 cheaper?
The BYD Dolphin Essential is cheaper, starting at $32,699 compared to $37,990 for the MG MG4 Excite 51. That is a difference of $5,291.
Which has more range, the BYD Dolphin Essential or MG MG4 Excite 51?
The MG MG4 Excite 51 has more range at 350 km WLTP, compared to 340 km for the BYD Dolphin Essential. That is a difference of 10 km.
Can the BYD Dolphin Essential or MG MG4 Excite 51 tow?
Only the MG MG4 Excite 51 can tow, with a rated capacity of 500 kg. The BYD Dolphin Essential does not support towing.

Explore Both Models