BYD Dolphin Surf value and depreciation
Known for south africa's cheapest new ev.
Projected value of a new BYD Dolphin Surf
We class the BYD Dolphin Surf as a chinese (new entrant) in our 12-tier model, which puts its retention at roughly 48% after three years and 32% after five. No resale track record yet, frequent launch-price cuts and fast model churn. Buy on price, not on resale.
Retention table
| After | Retained | Retail value | Trade-in |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 year | 69% | R 235 056 | R 206 849 |
| 3 years | 48% | R 162 409 | R 142 920 |
| 5 years | 32% | R 110 540 | R 97 275 |
| 7 years | 22% | R 74 096 | R 65 204 |
| 10 years | 12% | R 39 743 | R 34 974 |
Estimates for a new purchase at R 341 900; retail basis, trade-in ≈ 12% under retail.
At R339,900 on launch in late 2025, the Dolphin Surf undercut every other new EV in SA by a wide margin. By March 2026 it was the country's best-selling electric car. Claimed range is modest at 232km to 295km depending on battery size, which suits it to city driving.
What used Dolphin Surf years are worth today
Tap a year for the full breakdown: value range, remaining depreciation, and what to pay.
| Year | Est. retail today | Trade-in | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Dolphin Surf | R 341 900 | R 300 872 | Details → |
| 2025 Dolphin Surf | R 222 802 | R 196 066 | Details → |
Dolphin Surf against its rivals
BYD Dolphin Surf: common questions
What is a BYD Dolphin Surf worth after 3 years?
A BYD Dolphin Surf bought new today for R 341 900 is projected to be worth about R 162 409 after three years, which is 48% of its price. A dealer trade-in offer would sit closer to R 142 920.
Does the BYD Dolphin Surf hold its value?
We class the BYD Dolphin Surf as a chinese (new entrant) in our 12-tier model, which puts its retention at roughly 48% after three years and 32% after five. No resale track record yet, frequent launch-price cuts and fast model churn. Buy on price, not on resale.
What would a BYD Dolphin Surf cost per month?
Financing a new BYD Dolphin Surf at R 341 900 over 72 months at 11.75% with a 10% deposit comes to roughly R 5 976 per month before bank fees and insurance.
Keep going
All figures are modelled estimates for planning, not offers or valuations. Data reviewed 2026.