BYD ATTO 2

There's a crossover EV to suit all tastes. What makes this one stand out?

- MATT SAUNDERS

This era of high-rise electric superminis that we're living through is showing no sign of stalling. We now have a class packed with all kinds: premium ones (Alfa Romeo Junior), sporty ones (Mini Aceman, Ford Puma Gen-E), stylish ones (Kia EV3), retro-stylish ones (Renault 4), cutesier retro-stylish ones (Fiat Grande Panda) and more.

Among it all, what should a brand like BYD do to make its entrant stand out? Not much, apparently. The BYD Atto 2, just arrived in the UK, seems to have a mission simply to blend in. It looks very much like a shrunken Atto 3, although it also trades on cues obviously borrowed from the likes of Smart and Mercedes EQ. It is practical, broadly pleasant, well equipped and inoffensive both to use and drive.

It's fine, passable, competitive even, if you like. But it isn't a car you are likely to notice or remember. Instead it aims to meet every reasonable expectation without notably exceeding any of them.