Weighing in at 2 710 kg, the Shark is substantial. The near 50/50 weight distribution sounds impressive, especially in a brochure, but it’s worth questioning how that balance holds up when the load bin is full or when tackling tough off-road terrain. The interior space is adequate. Headroom ranges from 800 mm to 875 mm up front and 830 mm in the rear, with 630 mm of knee room. Functional, but not game-changing. The 865 mm loading height is practical, and the 3.4 turns lock-to-lock steering suggests decent low-speed manoeuvrability.
Performance is where things get interesting. The 0–100 km/h sprint takes just 5.66 seconds, with the quarter mile done in 13.99 seconds and a kilometre in 26.00 seconds. That’s seriously quick for a bakkie and points to the punch of its hybrid system. The Shark is rated for 2.5 tonnes of braked towing and an 850 kg payload, which puts it behind more utilitarian rivals in both departments.
Related: BYD and Ironman 4×4 Join Forces On SA-Bound BYD Shark 6 Bakkie
Then there’s the cost of upkeep. A single rear Continental CrossContact tyre will set you back R5 839, though at least it comes with a full-sized alloy spare. It’s a reminder that these high-tech machines can carry running costs that go beyond fuel or electricity. And that’s before factoring in items like windscreen replacements. It’s clear that the BYD Shark is aiming to disrupt the segment with strong performance and modern technology. It’s an intriguing contender, but how well it stands up to daily demands, from towing to tough terrain and long-term wear, is what will determine if it’s a true rival to the Raptor, performance-focused Hilux or just another quick-on-paper newcomer.
Road Test Figures: BYD Shark 6
Posted June 19, 2025
By: Siyavuya Mbaduli
The BYD Shark 6 has beached itself in Mzansi with no shortage of hype, and the comparisons to heavy hitters like the Ford Ranger Raptor were almost immediate. On paper, it makes a strong case, especially with its electrified performance figures, but as with any bakkie, real-world use will ultimately determine its standing.
Looking for a new or used BYD? Find it here with CARmag!
Weighing in at 2 710 kg, the Shark is substantial. The near 50/50 weight distribution sounds impressive, especially in a brochure, but it’s worth questioning how that balance holds up when the load bin is full or when tackling tough off-road terrain. The interior space is adequate. Headroom ranges from 800 mm to 875 mm up front and 830 mm in the rear, with 630 mm of knee room. Functional, but not game-changing. The 865 mm loading height is practical, and the 3.4 turns lock-to-lock steering suggests decent low-speed manoeuvrability.
Performance is where things get interesting. The 0–100 km/h sprint takes just 5.66 seconds, with the quarter mile done in 13.99 seconds and a kilometre in 26.00 seconds. That’s seriously quick for a bakkie and points to the punch of its hybrid system. The Shark is rated for 2.5 tonnes of braked towing and an 850 kg payload, which puts it behind more utilitarian rivals in both departments.
Related: BYD and Ironman 4×4 Join Forces On SA-Bound BYD Shark 6 Bakkie
Then there’s the cost of upkeep. A single rear Continental CrossContact tyre will set you back R5 839, though at least it comes with a full-sized alloy spare. It’s a reminder that these high-tech machines can carry running costs that go beyond fuel or electricity. And that’s before factoring in items like windscreen replacements. It’s clear that the BYD Shark is aiming to disrupt the segment with strong performance and modern technology. It’s an intriguing contender, but how well it stands up to daily demands, from towing to tough terrain and long-term wear, is what will determine if it’s a true rival to the Raptor, performance-focused Hilux or just another quick-on-paper newcomer.
