BYD Atto 3 vs Subaru Forester
Data verified April 2025
At this driving profile, the Subaru Forester is the more economical choice over 5 years in New South Wales.
Running only 15,000 km per year in New South Wales, the BYD Atto 3's higher purchase price doesn't fully pay back through lower running costs within 5 years. The BYD Atto 3 costs $86,783 in total versus $80,069 for the Subaru Forester — a difference of $6,715. Break-even would take approximately 5.9 years — beyond the 5-year horizon. If you drive significantly more km per year, or if petrol prices rise substantially, this comparison would shift. The BYD Atto 3 still avoids around 5,606 kg of CO₂ over the ownership period.
The economics don't stack up at this driving distance — increase annual km or extend the holding period to change the picture.
Frequently asked questions
Is the BYD Atto 3 cheaper than the Subaru Forester over 5 years in Australia?
At 15,000 km/yr in NSW the Subaru Forester is the cheaper option over 5 years: $80,069 total versus $86,783 for the BYD Atto 3. Use the calculator above to adjust for your driving distance.
How long does the BYD Atto 3 take to break even against the Subaru Forester?
At 15,000 km/yr in NSW the BYD Atto 3 breaks even against the Subaru Forester after approximately 5.9 years (88,750 km). This accounts for the higher purchase price of the EV.
How much does it cost to charge the BYD Atto 3 vs fuel the Subaru Forester per year?
At 15,000 km/yr in NSW, charging the BYD Atto 3 costs approximately $810/yr (blending home and public charging), versus $2,407/yr in petrol for the Subaru Forester.
How savings vary by state
5-year total cost at 15,000 km/yr using each state's electricity and fuel rates. Click a state for the full breakdown.
| State | EV saving over 5 yrs | Break-even |
|---|---|---|
| New South Wales | $6,715 | 5.9 yrs |
| Victoria | $6,670 | 5.8 yrs |
| Queensland | $3,975 | 3.8 yrs |
| Western Australia | $3,910 | 3.8 yrs |
| South Australia | $5,334 | 4.7 yrs |
| Tasmania | $3,145 | 3.5 yrs |
| Australian Capital Territory | $3,433 | 3.6 yrs |
| Northern Territory | $2,567 | 3.3 yrs |