In Australia, the BYD Shark 6 Premium remains a compelling plug-in hybrid dual-cab ute, according to this review of the 2026 model. It is priced at A$57,900 before on-road costs—A$2,000 above the Dynamic cab-chassis and A$5,000 below the Performance. BYD says the Shark 6 has become a regular top-20 seller since arriving in Australia in late 2024. The wider range now also includes the cab-chassis and the more powerful Performance variant.
The Premium combines a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with two electric motors for system outputs of 321kW and 650Nm. Its 29.6kWh battery is rated for up to 100km of electric driving under the NEDC test cycle, and claimed 0–100km/h acceleration is 5.7 seconds. During a week of driving with the battery below 25 per cent charge, the reviewer recorded 7.2L/100km, against BYD’s stated 7.9L/100km figure for that condition. The ute has e-AWD and a 2,500kg braked towing capacity.
The review praises the Premium’s solid-feeling cabin, comfortable seats, responsive 15.6-inch infotainment screen and useful physical controls. On the road, its steering and handling are considered reassuring for a vehicle weighing 2,710kg, while its suspension stays composed over rough surfaces. The trade-offs include a petrol engine that is louder and works harder than the Performance’s larger 2.0-litre unit, and less off-road capability than some rivals. The Premium has 230mm of ground clearance and a 700mm wading depth.
Other Australian plug-in hybrid ute alternatives mentioned include the Ford Ranger PHEV, GWM Cannon Alpha Ultra PHEV and JAC Hunter X PHEV, with further models expected in the market. The Shark 6 has a five-star ANCAP safety rating. The Premium’s standard equipment includes heated and ventilated front seats, a head-up display, a spray-on tub liner and a 12-speaker Dynaudio audio system.
