The budget electric SUV segment is rapidly growing across Europe and Asia, with two models dominating customer demand: the BYD Atto 3 and the MG ZS EV.

Both are affordable, practical, and packed with advanced technology — but each brings different strengths in range, performance, design, and running costs.

This 2025 comparison reveals which EV offers the best value for money.

1. Design & Build Quality

BYD Atto 3

• Futuristic, youthful styling

• High-quality interior materials

• 12.8″ rotating touchscreen (landscape/portrait)

• Solid build with attention to detail

• Blue/cream interior theme feels premium

MG ZS EV

• More traditional SUV design

• Simpler but practical interior

• 10.1″ central touchscreen

• Good build quality, but less modern

• More conservative exterior styling

Winner: BYD Atto 3
More premium interior and a modern, distinctive design.

2. Battery, Range & Efficiency

BYD Atto 3

• Battery: 60.5 kWh LFP Blade Battery

• Range: 420–450 km WLTP

• Real-world efficiency: 14–16 kWh/100 km

• Outstanding battery longevity and safety

MG ZS EV

• Battery: 51.1 or 72.6 kWh

• Range: 320–440 km WLTP (depending on version)

• Efficiency: 17–19 kWh/100 km

Winner: BYD Atto 3
More range for the battery size and far better efficiency thanks to LFP Blade technology.

3. Charging Speed

• DC fast charging: up to 88 kW

• 30–80% in ~29 minutes

MG ZS EV

• DC fast charging: up to 100 kW

• 30–80% in ~36 minutes

Winner: Tie
ZS EV charges slightly faster at peak. Atto 3 is more efficient — overall equal.

4. Performance & Driving

BYD Atto 3

• 150 kW (204 hp)

• Smooth, linear acceleration

• Softer suspension = comfortable ride

• Quieter cabin

MG ZS EV

• 130 kW (176 hp)

• Strong low-end torque

• More traditional SUV handling

• Slightly firmer ride

Winner: BYD Atto 3
More power and better refinement.

5. Technology & Infotainment

• Rotating 12.8” touchscreen

• BYD DiLink OS

• 360° camera

• Advanced ADAS safety package

• OTA updates

ZS EV

• 10.1” screen

• MG iSmart system

• 360° camera (in top trims)

• Good ADAS suite

Winner: BYD Atto 3
More advanced OS and a unique rotating screen.

6. Practicality & Comfort

Atto 3

• More spacious rear seats

• Larger boot: 440 L

• More modern cabin feel

• High comfort for long trips

ZS EV

• Boot: 448 L (slightly larger)

• Slightly more traditional ergonomics

• Great city car practicality

Winner: Tie
Atto 3 = better passenger space,
ZS EV = slightly bigger boot.

7. Safety

Both SUVs score top marks in crash tests:

• Euro NCAP: 5 stars for both BYD Atto 3 and MG ZS EV

Winner: Tie
Both are very safe vehicles.

8. Price & Value (Europe & Asia)

BYD Atto 3

• €38,000–€44,000 (Europe)

• $24,000–$28,000 (Asia)

MG ZS EV

• €32,000–€38,000 (Europe)

• $22,000–$27,000 (Asia)

Winner: MG ZS EV (price)
But Atto 3 offers more tech and refinement.

9. Full Comparison Table

Final Verdict — Which Is the Best Budget Electric SUV?

Choose the BYD Atto 3 if you want:

• Best efficiency

• Strong range

• Premium interior

• Advanced tech

• More power

Choose the MG ZS EV if you want:

• Lower price

• Traditional SUV feels

• Slightly bigger cargo space

• Simpler interface

Overall Winner (Best All-Around):

BYD Atto 3 — more modern, more efficient, and better long-term value.