Test Drive BYD Atto 1, Directly Challenges Agya, Ayla, and Brio

Driving and Performance

After finding the best driving position, KatadataOTO immediately started the journey within the city of Semarang. First impression: the cabin's soundproofing. The Atto 1's insulation system deserves a thumbs up. Tire roar and external noise are well-reduced.

It's certainly enjoyable to drive a compact car in the city. There are practically no significant difficulties in adapting to driving the Atto 1. Light maneuvers like passing vehicles ahead or weaving through dense traffic can be done easily.

Photo : KatadataOTO

Entering the toll road to Solo, KatadataOTO tried to push the cute car, which has 55 kW (about 74 hp) and 135 Nm of torque. When the road was empty, speeds of 125–130 km/h were easily reached without significant effort, especially when using Sport mode. The car's condition and driving status can be monitored via the 7-inch screen + TPMS.

At that average speed, KatadataOTO also tried some fairly aggressive lane changes, as well as navigating long corners. Like most other EVs with a low center of gravity thanks to the battery's position underneath, negative symptoms like body roll or swaying were barely noticeable.

The steering was also easily corrected to match the road or the desired line. Additionally, the Atto 1 has a high-strength body structure on the BYD e-Platform 3.0.

Photo : KatadataOTO

If needed, the driver can use the cruise control feature. You also won't have difficulty parking because, besides its small body, the Atto 1 is equipped with 3 radar sensors spread around the body.

A small note from KatadataOTO: operating the transmission lever still requires more adaptation, especially when parking, as its position and operation are a bit confusing at first.