BYD Dolphin vs Kia Cerato
Data verified April 2025
At this driving profile, the Kia Cerato 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 Dolphin's higher purchase price doesn't fully pay back through lower running costs within 5 years. The BYD Dolphin costs $77,038 in total versus $58,483 for the Kia Cerato — a difference of $18,555. The numbers don't reach break-even within this holding period. If you drive significantly more km per year, or if petrol prices rise substantially, this comparison would shift. The BYD Dolphin still avoids around 3,491 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 Dolphin cheaper than the Kia Cerato over 5 years in Australia?
At 15,000 km/yr in NSW the Kia Cerato is the cheaper option over 5 years: $58,483 total versus $77,038 for the BYD Dolphin. Use the calculator above to adjust for your driving distance.
Does the BYD Dolphin break even against the Kia Cerato?
At 15,000 km/yr in NSW the BYD Dolphin does not fully recover its price premium within a 5-year holding period. Higher annual km or an extended holding period would improve the picture. Use the calculator above to model your situation.
How much does it cost to charge the BYD Dolphin vs fuel the Kia Cerato per year?
At 15,000 km/yr in NSW, charging the BYD Dolphin costs approximately $735/yr (blending home and public charging), versus $1,920/yr in petrol for the Kia Cerato.
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 | $18,555 | > 5 yrs |
| Victoria | $18,493 | > 5 yrs |
| Queensland | $15,901 | 14.3 yrs |
| Western Australia | $15,877 | 14.2 yrs |
| South Australia | $17,183 | > 5 yrs |
| Tasmania | $15,218 | 12.3 yrs |
| Australian Capital Territory | $15,327 | 12.5 yrs |
| Northern Territory | $14,763 | 11.3 yrs |