BYD has entered new territory with the Shark 6, a utility vehicle blending cutting- edge innovation with raw power aimed at taking on both urban streets and off-road trails. Dave McLeod went along to the launch.
This hybrid ute is packed with adventure-friendly features while staying aligned with BYD’s commitment to sustainability.
The Shark 6 has a 1.5L turbocharged petrol engine paired with two electric motors, delivering a combined output of 430 horsepower or 320kW/650Nm torque. It posts a 0-100km/h time of 5.7 seconds, rivaling performance vehicles.
For the explorers, its range of up to 800km offers reassurance on long expeditions, though its towing capacity of 2,500kg and a payload limit of 790kg (due to its substantial weight rather than ability) reduces its appeal for adventuring.
With a robust ladder-frame chassis and an integrated 30kWh blade battery system, the Shark 6 feels stable on challenging terrain. The coil and strut suspension ensures a smooth ride for all passengers, especially when exploring off-the-beaten-path trails.
With an approach angle of 31 degrees, a departure angle of 19.5 degrees, and a ground clearance of 230mm, it’s ready to tackle any rugged environment. Unfortunately for us, the 700mm water- wading capacity remained unused during initial testing, but it’s a reassuring feature for more daring adventures and impressive for a hybrid 4WD.
Switching between drive modes Eco, Normal, Sport, and Mountain allows drivers to tailor the ute’s performance to their environment. Whether climbing gravel paths or navigating soft off-road terrain, the Shark 6 feels capable, even if lane-keep assist struggles with unsealed roads. And for those venturing further afield, it comes with multiple terrain modes such as ‘Muddyland’ and ‘Snowland’, easy descriptions for those novices out there.
What sets the Shark 6 apart isn’t just its off-road prowess – it’s the suite of smart, sustainable, and practical features it brings to the table. The versatile Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) system can power everything from a campsite fridge to worksite tools, thanks to auxiliary power outlets running off the battery, which remains functional even down to 15 percent state of charge. This makes it a dream companion not just for off-road adventurers, but also for farmers and worksite crews.
Connectivity and technology are also high points. Equipped with integrated SIM cards and advanced telemetry via the NZTA Compass IoT program, the Shark 6 enables fleet managers to monitor GPS, driver behavior, and other data. While this is a boon for managers, some drivers may find the detailed oversight a bit too much.
The Shark 6’s cockpit betrays its rugged exterior. Its well-appointed interior features large screens, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and impeccable craftsmanship that some critics feel is “too good” for a working ute. This refinement doesn’t detract from the driving experience – it actually elevates it. The steering is well-weighted, acceleration is smooth and punchy, and despite its size, the ute drives nimbly, blurring the lines between utility vehicle and SUV. Even on long winding country roads or tight mountain trails, the Shark feels at home.
BYD isn’t leaving anything to chance with the Shark 6, offering an impressive lineup of accessories. From locally- sourced canopies to bull bars and tonneau covers, the Shark can be tailored to suit a wide range of needs.
The Shark 6 isn’t without its quirks. Some advanced safety features, like lane-keep assist, struggle on more unconventional terrain, and seating may feel like sitting on rather than in the vehicle – a point that traditionalists may fret over. Additionally, die-hard off-roaders may desire more technical information on off-road modes.
For most adventurers, however, these minor gripes are easily overshadowed by what the Shark 6 delivers: a powerful, capable, and smart ute that is as much at home on a dirt track as it is on a highway. With an all-encompassing warranty of six years or 150,000km, it offers peace of mind to those ready to invest in this capable hybrid.
