Small SUV, big on features

BYD Atto 2
my.na Cars Passenger Princess Diana Master recently visited Pupkewitz BYD in Windhoek, where she spoke to senior sales executive David Winborn about what the Atto 2 has to offer.
Diana Masters
  • 13 Hours Ago

BYD is strengthening its presence in Namibia with the Atto 2, a compact SUV that combines modern technology, comfort and fuel efficiency.

While BYD has introduced several models to the Namibian market, including the Shark 6, the Atto 2 is aimed at motorists looking for a smaller vehicle suited to everyday driving.

The Atto 2 forms part of BYD’s Dynasty range, which places greater emphasis on luxury and refined styling. Its design follows the brand’s distinctive dragon-inspired theme, particularly noticeable at the front.

The model on display was finished in Midnight Blue, an unusual shade that appears somewhere between blue and green depending on the light. Other available colours include Skiing White, black and Time Grey.

Exterior features include automatic LED headlights, rain-sensing wipers, alloy wheels and a distinctive rear light arrangement inspired by the infinity symbol.

Although smaller than the Atto 3, the Atto 2 has a higher ride height than a conventional passenger car, making it suitable for city driving and occasional gravel roads.

According to Winborn, the vehicle is particularly well suited to young professionals, students and smaller families.

 

More than meets the eye

Inside, the Atto 2 has plenty to offer.

Synthetic leather seats, soft-touch materials and metallic finishes give the cabin a premium feel, while a large infotainment screen provides access to the vehicle’s entertainment and connectivity features.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, alongside Bluetooth connectivity, Wi-Fi functionality and applications such as Spotify and YouTube.

Selected variants also feature a 50-watt wireless phone charger with a built-in cooling function.

Another notable feature is the panoramic glass roof. Unlike a conventional sunroof, it does not open but allows occupants to enjoy natural light and views of the sky.

According to Winborn, the glass offers up to 99% UV protection. An electronically operated sunshade can be closed using the vehicle’s voice assistant.

Double-glazed windows also help to reduce outside noise, creating a quieter cabin.

Despite its compact dimensions, the Atto 2 offers generous rear legroom, helped by the absence of a traditional transmission tunnel.

 

Safety and efficiency

The Atto 2 comes equipped with several driver-assistance features, including lane-keeping assistance, collision warnings, emergency braking and cross-traffic alerts.

A 360-degree camera system provides a view around the vehicle, making parking and manoeuvring in tight spaces easier.

Tyre pressure and temperature monitoring, keyless entry and NFC vehicle access add to the convenience.

Under the bonnet, the plug-in hybrid system combines petrol and electric power.

According to Winborn, the vehicle can travel approximately 40km on electric power alone. This could allow motorists with shorter daily commutes to complete their journeys without using petrol.

Drivers can also choose between Eco, Normal, Sport and Snow driving modes, depending on road conditions and personal preference.

For Namibian motorists looking to reduce fuel consumption without giving up the convenience of a petrol engine, the Atto 2 offers an alternative worth considering.

With its combination of technology, comfort and practicality, this compact SUV has plenty going for it.