BYD Shark 6: Hybrid Ute with Competitive Price to Rival the Hilux and Ranger

Get ready to sink your teeth into the latest ute contender to hit Australian shores—the BYD Shark 6. That’s right; orders for BYD’s electrified, plug-in hybrid Shark 6 have opened, and it’s got a competitive price tag that puts it head-to-head with some heavy hitters like the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux. Starting from $57,900 (plus on-road costs), the Shark 6 is here to challenge the old guard and hook a few drivers looking for a fresh take on the workhorse ute.

The BYD Shark 6 kicking up dust and owning the dirt road.

Why the Shark 6 is Making a Splash

This hybrid isn’t just a pretty fin in the water. Under the hood, BYD has paired a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine with two electric motors, delivering a whopping 321kW and 650Nm of torque. The Shark 6 promises a quick bite with a 0-100 km/h time of just 5.7 seconds, putting it in the fast lane against even the Ford Ranger Raptor's twin-turbo petrol V6 (292kW/583Nm). Not to mention, BYD claims it offers up to 100km of electric-only range and an impressive 800km combined range.

The Shark 6 rear view—sleek and ready for any terrain in Deep Sea Blue.

How it Stacks Up Against the Big Fish

Let’s face it, the Shark 6 has a bit of catching up to do with tried-and-true utes like the HiLux and Ranger. While its 2500kg towing capacity might not pull in the same crowd that wants the 3500kg standard, it’s plenty for most lighter loads, like camper trailers or jet skis. If heavy-duty towing is what you’re after, you might be better off with one of the American diesel behemoths, like the Chevy 2500 HD.

That said, the Shark 6 has been locally tested to handle Aussie conditions, so it’s no fish out of water. With 200mm ground clearance and dual motors for enhanced grip, it has the tech to handle some off-road fun, even if it’s still working on proving itself among the serious off-roaders.

Features that Reel You In

Inside, the Shark 6 doesn’t skimp on tech. You’ll find a rotating 15.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 10.25-inch digital display for the driver, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. BYD also brings a suite of safety tech like adaptive cruise control, a surround-view camera, and even a driver fatigue monitor.

Double trouble: BYD Shark 6 in Deep Sea Blue and Great White cruising down the dirt road.

While the Shark’s payload and towing might not have the muscle for serious tradies, it’s geared toward drivers looking for versatility and tech without the gas-guzzling. Priced to undercut a few of the classic diesel dual-cabs, such as the Nissan Navara ST-X, Isuzu D-Max X-Rider and Mitsubishi Triton GLS. The BYD Shark 6 is a refreshing option for those ready to take the hybrid plunge.

Is the BYD Shark 6 the Catch of the Day?

Ultimately, the Shark 6 is a bold move by BYD into a traditionally diesel-dominated market. If you’re in the game for something new that offers a blend of eco-friendliness, speed, and city-slicker features, the Shark 6 is one to watch out for in 2025. Whether it’s got the teeth to truly shake up the market is yet to be seen, but it’s definitely stirring the water.