CarteaNewsChinese CarsBYD Shark 6 arrives in the UAE as a plug in hybrid rival to Toyota Hilux

BYD Shark 6 arrives in the UAE as a plug in hybrid rival to Toyota Hilux

Ahd Kamal
Ahd Kamal
2025-09-18
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The UAE market is gearing up to welcome a new contender in the mid size pickup segment with the launch of the BYD Shark 6, the brand’s first plug in hybrid pickup. This model is set to challenge the dominance of the Toyota Hilux, long regarded as the benchmark in the region. By blending power, efficiency, and advanced technology, the Shark 6 has already captured the attention of Gulf enthusiasts eager to see if it can reshape the competition in this category.

Prices and available trims of BYD Shark 6


The Shark debuted first in Mexico with two trims, GL and GS. Prices there highlight strong value for money compared to the offered features:

  • GL: 899,980 Mexican pesos, approximately 196,170 AED

  • GS: 969,800 Mexican pesos, about 211,388 AED

In the UAE, BYD together with Al Futtaim Electric Mobility will officially reveal the trims and pricing on September 24, 2025, heightening anticipation for what is being described as one of the most advanced pickups in its class.

Shark Inspired Exterior Design


BYD shaped the Shark pickup with inspiration drawn from the predator it is named after, combining bold strength with modern elegance. The front features vertically stacked LED headlights reminiscent of the Ford F-150, a wide grille with the BYD badge at the center, and a solid skid plate that adds toughness.

Key exterior highlights include:

  • 18 inch dual tone alloy wheels

  • Front and rear skid plates

  • Full LED lighting

  • Functional roof rails

  • Reinforced body cladding

Its dimensions further emphasize its commanding stance: length of 5,457 mm, width of 1,971 mm, height of 1,925 mm, and ground clearance of 282 mm, ensuring the Shark can confidently tackle the harsh desert terrains of the GCC.

Interior and Comfort Experience


Inside the Shark 6, BYD crafted a cabin that balances practicality with a premium feel. The interior, finished in soft synthetic leather, offers generous space for five passengers and up to ten storage compartments placed across the cabin for convenience.

Highlight features include:

  • 10.25 inch digital instrument cluster

  • 12 inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

  • 12 inch head up display

  • 8 speaker audio system

  • Electrically adjustable and ventilated front seats

  • Panoramic sunroof

  • Dual zone climate control with rear vents

  • Wireless phone charger and 220V power outlet

Engine and Drivetrain Performance


The BYD Shark 6 is powered by a 1.5 liter turbocharged gasoline engine paired with two electric motors and a 29.5 kWh battery, delivering advanced all wheel drive through one motor on each axle.

Performance figures show the blend of strength and reliability:

  • Total output of 430 horsepower

  • Maximum torque of 650 Nm

  • Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds

  • Pure electric range of 100 km and combined range of 840 km

  • Fast charging from 30% to 80% in just 20 minutes

Direct Rivalry with Toyota Hilux


The BYD Shark 6 is expected to launch in the UAE with a starting price of around 200,000 AED, higher than the fully equipped Toyota Hilux GR, which costs about 170,000 AED. However, the price gap is justified by the Shark 6’s advanced features and modern technology, making it more sophisticated in both mechanical and digital aspects.

With its intelligent all wheel drive system and generous ground clearance, the Shark 6 is built to handle desert dunes and rough terrain with ease, making it an appealing choice in GCC markets where demand for versatile and powerful pickups continues to rise.

Official Launch in the UAE


BYD will officially reveal all details of the Shark 6 on September 24, 2025, during a special event in Dubai. This unveiling will mark a pivotal moment for the Chinese pickup in the UAE market, where it is expected to capture strong attention and intensify competition.

With this launch, BYD has the potential to introduce a new concept of pickup trucks in the region, blending traditional strength with cutting edge innovation, and opening a fresh chapter in its rivalry with the legendary Toyota Hilux.

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Ahd KamalAhd Kamal
Chief editor information:

My passion for cars began long before my journey into automotive journalism in 2015. Even though I'm originally a pharmacist, the thrill of speed, elegant designs, and roaring engines has always had my heart. Today, I channel this passion by exploring the newest cars and sharing my experiences with fellow car enthusiasts across the GCC.