BYD Shark 6 Review: Faster than the Ranger Raptor, but that's only part of the surprises (6 photos)

Pros: Class-leading interior, excellent hybrid system, great technology

Cons: No off-road capabilities, limited towing capacity of 2.5 tonnes, limited regenerative braking

Bold entry into the market

BYD's entry into the crowded Australian pickup market was a bold move. The manufacturer is a relatively new player in a local market dominated by giants such as the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi Triton and Isuzu D-Max. But the bet makes sense – pickups are big business in Australia, with three of the country’s top ten best-selling cars being pickups, including the top-selling Ford Ranger.

The hybrid alternative

Most competitors offer traditional diesel powertrains that have proven themselves to be reliable and versatile. Not only does the Shark 6 come from a relatively young brand, it’s also one of only three plug-in hybrid pickups sold locally.

Commercial success

Despite stiff competition, the model has already proven its popularity. In the first seven months of this year, 11,657 units were sold in Australia, beating the new Triton, the updated Mazda BT-50, the Nissan Navara and the VW Amarok. Only the Isuzu D-Max, Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger sold better.

Key Features

Model: 2025 BYD Shark 6

Starting Price: AU$57,900 ($38,300)

Dimensions: 5,457mm long, 1,971mm wide, 1,925mm high

Wheelbase: 3,260mm

Weight: 2,710kg

Powertrain: 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine + two electric motors

Power: 430hp, 650Nm of torque

0-100km/h: 5.7 seconds

Fuel consumption: 9.5 l/100 km according to tests

Competitive pricing

In Australia, the BYD Shark 6 is sold in a single configuration at a price of AU$57,900, which makes it cheaper than competitors. The model uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with 181 hp, supplemented by two electric motors, which in total gives 430 hp - more than the Ranger Raptor.

A 29.58 kWh battery provides more than 100 km of range on electric power alone. The payload is 790 kg, and the towing capacity is 2,500 kg, which is less than traditional diesel competitors.



Premium interior

The Shark 6 interior sets new standards of quality in its segment. The main feature is a massive 15.6-inch infotainment screen that can work in both landscape and portrait orientation. The display is very responsive, the menus are clear, and the system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Unlike many competitors with hard plastic, the Shark 6 uses soft materials and leather on the dashboard, center console, and steering wheel. The center console has a massive gear lever and stylish switches for the start/stop button, hazard warning lights, and switching between electric and hybrid modes.





The Hybrid Advantage

The Shark 6 is significantly smoother in everyday driving than most of its competitors. During normal driving, it runs mostly on electric power, remaining almost silent. The engine only starts under heavy acceleration or speeds of around 60 km/h, and it does so smoothly and with minimal noise.

The system provides powerful acceleration - acceleration to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds, which is faster than the Ranger Raptor. However, the model has a problem with engine revs lagging after taking your foot off the accelerator.



Performance and Features

The use of springs on all four wheels instead of springs provides a comfortable ride. The regenerative braking system has two modes, but both offer limited recuperation. The hybrid system allows you to set the desired battery charge level, but the charging process takes a significant amount of time.

Average fuel consumption is 9.5 l/100 km, which is no better than diesel competitors, but considering the performance, this is an acceptable compromise. The model is not intended for serious off-road use - there are no differential locks and a low gear.



Conclusions

The BYD Shark 6 has an attractive design, a best-in-class interior and a well-tuned hybrid system. Except for the rev-lag issue, the model demonstrates impeccable performance in the city and on the highway. It is one of the best options for everyday use among mid-size pickups in the countries where it is sold.



The success of the BYD Shark 6 in the Australian market demonstrates the growing demand for environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional diesel pickups. Although the model has some limitations in payload and off-road capabilities, its advantages in comfort, technology and performance make it an attractive choice for urban conditions. The development of hybrid technologies in commercial vehicles opens up new opportunities for automakers willing to invest in innovation.