by BYD expands Shark 6 lineup in Australia: new versions with a more powerful engine and improved payload
Less than two months after the initial presentation, BYD has expanded its Shark 6 pickup lineup in Australia, introducing two new models. This is expected to significantly broaden the appeal of the plug-in hybrid vehicle. The standard Shark 6 has already challenged competitors, and the new Dynamic Cab Chassis and Performance models could be the final nail in their coffin.
Like the existing Shark 6 Premium, which we tested last year, the new top-of-the-line Shark 6 Performance uses a 29.58 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate Blade battery. The key change is that instead of a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, it now features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Total output now stands at 469 hp (350 kW) and 700 Nm of torque, up from 430 hp (321 kW) and 650 Nm in its predecessor. The 0-100 km/h acceleration time has decreased from 5.7 to 5.5 seconds. Pricing starts at 62,900 Australian dollars ($45,000 USD), which is 5,000 Australian dollars ($3,600 USD) more than the Premium.
Jim Farley said Chinese pickups can’t tow like the Ranger. BYD just proved him wrong.
While more power is always welcome, it is the improved towing capability that will be most valued by local buyers. While the Shark 6 Premium is limited to towing 2,500 kg, the Shark 6 Performance can tow 3,500 kg, which has become the standard for mid-size pickups. The Performance also has a towball download of 350 kg.
BYD Shark 6 Performance
Visually, the Shark 6 Performance is almost indistinguishable from the Premium. The most noticeable, and perhaps disappointing, change is inside the cabin. While the Premium features a massive gear shifter on the center console with several satisfying toggle switches, the model with the 2.0-liter engine switches to a column-mounted shifter and simpler console controls.
All versions of the Shark 6 use the same double-wishbone suspension at the front and rear, rather than the leaf springs common in this segment. The Shark 6 family will also become more capable off-road with the introduction of Crawl mode, which continuously adjusts torque to prevent wheel spin on rocks, inclines, and deep ruts.
Alongside the Performance, a new Dynamic Cab-Chassis model has joined the Shark 6 lineup, with pricing starting at 55,900 Australian dollars ($40,000 USD). It uses the same 1.5-liter hybrid system as the Premium but features a more basic body, aimed at increasing its appeal among workers. Currently, the towing capacity for this version with brakes is limited to 2,500 kg, but a 2.0-liter engine model arriving later this year will raise that to 3,500 kg.
BYD Shark 6 Dynamic Cab-Chassis
Thus, BYD is not just updating its pickup but offering two clearly segmented versions: a more powerful one for those needing maximum payload and dynamics, and a more practical one for commercial use. The abandonment of leaf springs in favor of independent suspension is a bold move that could improve ride comfort but may raise questions about durability under extreme loads. The introduction of Crawl mode indicates that BYD is serious about competing not only on pavement but also off-road, where players like the Ford Ranger have traditionally been strong. Overall, this is a strategic lineup expansion aimed at closing key gaps and meeting the needs of different customer groups, from builders to outdoor enthusiasts.
