BYD’s third-generation Yuan Plus recently broke cover at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show with a major transformation – and it’s now confirmed for New Zealand as the BYD Atto 5, according to AutoTrader NZ.

Set to arrive in 2027, the new model represents a significant step up from today’s Atto 3, not just in name but in size, performance and technology. While BYD has yet to lock in Australian plans, the Kiwi market will be among the first outside China to receive the next-generation electric SUV.

The all-new model represents a clean-sheet evolution of BYD’s popular small electric SUV. According to the outlet, the vehicle will replace the current Atto 3 in the Kiwi line-up, with the new name reflecting its move into a larger, more premium segment.

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That step up is immediately evident in the dimensions. The new model is approximately 210mm longer, 50mm wider and rides on a wheelbase stretched by 50mm, giving it a noticeably bigger footprint and improved cabin space. Overall measurements are reported at around 4665mm long, 1895mm wide and 2770mm between the axles.

Under the skin, the Yuan Plus adopts a rear-wheel-drive architecture – a significant departure from the front-driven Atto 3 – paired with outputs of up to 200kW or 240kW, depending on variant. The platform also introduces an 800-volt electrical system, enabling one of its biggest headlines: ultra-rapid charging.

BYD claims its new Flash Charging system can take the battery from 10 to 70 per cent in as little as five minutes under ideal conditions, or close to a full charge in under 10 minutes. Energy is supplied by a second-generation Blade battery, offered in 57.5kWh and 68.5kWh capacities with claimed driving ranges of 540km and 630km (CLTC) respectively.

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Inside, the cabin takes a step up in both technology and presentation, with a floating infotainment touchscreen, head-up display, two-spoke steering wheel and a premium 16-speaker audio system. Twin wireless charging pads, a heated-and-cooled centre console and a power tailgate also feature.

While Chinese-market versions will offer BYD’s LiDAR-based DiPilot 300 driver assistance system, this advanced hardware is unlikely to be fitted to New Zealand-delivered cars.

BYD Australia has yet to confirm plans for the new model locally. For now, the Atto 3 will continue in Australia, though the Atto 5’s positioning suggests it could eventually slot between existing models should it make the jump across the Tasman.