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BYD F3: compact sedan, engines and what to check when buying
BYD F3 — compact class sedan, produced in China since 2005 and for a long time one of the most popular BYD models. It's very rare in Lithuania, mostly found as individual imports. We look at the versions, engines, and what to check before buying.
F3 in brief
The BYD F3 is a simple, practical four-door sedan designed as an affordable alternative to well-known compacts. Its strengths are a low price, straightforward construction, and a reasonably spacious interior.
The sedan was sold not only in China but in other markets too, with the hatchback version known as the F3-R. It was never officially sold in Europe.
Which version to choose
The main version is the sedan with a 1.5 or 1.6-litre petrol engine. The F3-R hatchback is ideal for those who prioritise practicality and easier use of the boot.
Later, the car was updated with a new front end and interior. If you're considering a used model, the updated version is generally seen as slightly more modern, but the condition and service history remain crucial.
Engines and gearboxes
The F3 was offered with 1.5 and 1.6-litre petrol engines. Power is modest, focused on economy and daily city driving.
The gearbox is usually manual, but automatics were available in some markets. Front-wheel drive. The F3 also spawned the hybrid F3DM, one of the first series-production plug-in hybrids.
What to check when buying a used F3
Since this car is uncommon in Lithuania, first find out how to get spare parts and if there's a service that can maintain it. This could determine whether the car is worth buying.
Inspect the body and undercarriage for rust, check the suspension and brakes. Listen to the engine and gearbox — they shouldn't make any unusual noises.
Check the documents and ensure the car meets the requirements for registration in Lithuania.
Trim levels
Trim names vary by market and year; here we list versions by body style and transmission.
F3 sedanas
2005–2015The base version with a 1.5 or 1.6-litre engine.
- 1.5 or 1.6-litre petrol engine
- Front-wheel drive
- Often — basic equipment
F3-R
From 2007Hatchback version.
- Hatchback body
- Often — electrically operated windows
- Practical boot
F3 (atnaujinta)
later yearsRefreshed exterior and interior.
- Redesigned front end
- Updated instrument cluster
- Often — more equipment
F3DM
from 2008Hybrid version with a rechargeable battery.
- Hybrid system
- Ability to drive on electric power alone
- Rare on the market
Comparing versions
| Sedanas | F3-R | Atnaujintas | F3DM | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | Budget-friendly sedan | For practicality | For a fresher look | For Enthusiasts |
| Most Commonly Found | 14–15 inches | 14–15 inches | 15 inches | 15 inches |
| Interior | Basic | Basic | Atnaujintas | Basic |
| Engine | 1.5 or 1.6 | 1.5 or 1.6 | 1.5 or 1.6 | Hybrid |
| Price in the Used Market (Relatively) | Budget | Budget | Budget | Mid-Range |
It's only worth considering as a budget sedan if you can get parts and service. If not, it's safer to choose a more widely available model.
Pros
- Low Price
- Simple Mechanics
- Spacious interior
- Economical city driving
Cons
- Very rare in Lithuania, parts hard to find
- Better equipment and safety ratings
- Rapid depreciation
Frequently asked questions
Is the BYD F3 sold in Europe?
Officially no — this car is mainly intended for the Chinese market and a few others. In Lithuania, you can only find a few imported examples.
What is the F3DM?
The F3DM is a plug-in hybrid version based on the F3, considered one of the first series-produced cars of this type.
Is the F3 reliable?
The mechanics are simple, but this car lacks parts and service in Lithuania, so it's crucial to thoroughly check the condition of any specific example.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
