- Exterior and Interior Design
- Performance and Engine Options
- Off Road Capabilities
- Technology and Interior Features
- Comfort and Space
- Safety Systems
- Price and Value in the UAE
The UAE truck market is witnessing a heated comparison with the arrival of the all new BYD Shark pickup standing head to head with the iconic Toyota Hilux. The Shark debuts as the world’s first plug in hybrid pickup, while the Hilux maintains its historic reputation as a benchmark for durability and practicality. Both are double cab models designed for daily driving and desert adventures, yet they follow different philosophies in design, features, and performance.
Exterior and Interior Design
The BYD Shark comes with a shark inspired design, featuring a massive front grille, C shaped vertical LED headlights, and a sleek connecting light bar that gives it a modern and bold presence. With a width of 1971 mm and a length of 5457 mm, it stands larger and more imposing on the road. In contrast, the Toyota Hilux 2025 retains a solid look with a pronounced grille and sharp LED lights, underlining its rugged and functional character.
Inside, the Shark emphasizes luxury and modernity, offering:
12.8 inch floating infotainment screen with rotation capability
10.25 inch fully digital instrument cluster
12 inch head up display
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Heated and ventilated front seats with wireless charging
The Hilux on the other hand delivers a straightforward and functional cabin, equipped with an 8 inch touchscreen supporting CarPlay and Android Auto, durable seating, and wide storage spaces built to handle demanding work conditions.
Performance and Engine Options
The BYD Shark relies on a plug in hybrid system that combines a 1.5 liter turbocharged petrol engine with two electric motors. Together they deliver 435 hp and 650 Nm of torque. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes just 5.7 seconds, while the pure electric range reaches up to 100 km with a total driving range of about 840 km. The battery has a capacity of 29.58 kWh and supports fast charging at 40 kW, going from 30 percent to 80 percent in only 20 minutes.
The Toyota Hilux, on the other hand, comes with several traditional engine options, including:
2.8 liter turbo diesel with 204 hp and 500 Nm of torque
4.0 liter V6 petrol with 235 hp and 376 Nm of torque
Smaller units like the 2.4 liter diesel and 2.7 liter petrol
The Hilux accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in around 10 seconds, with fuel consumption ranging between 9.5 and 15.6 km per liter depending on the version.
Off Road Capabilities
The Hilux is known for its off road reliability, featuring 265 mm of ground clearance, a 30 degree approach angle, and towing capacity up to 3500 kg in the 4x4 versions. A sturdy suspension and trailer stability systems further enhance its rugged performance.
Meanwhile, the Shark offers 282 mm of ground clearance along with three driving modes (sand, mud, snow) and an electronic differential lock. Its reinforced chassis and all wheel drive setup make it desert ready, though its larger size and heavier weight may limit agility on soft dunes compared to the Hilux.
Technology and Interior Features
The BYD Shark takes the lead in technology, offering a large rotating touchscreen, a 360 degree camera, level 2 driver assistance, a powerful wireless charger, and a V2L system that provides external power.
In contrast, the Toyota Hilux keeps things simple with an 8 inch infotainment screen, a basic rearview camera, and Toyota Safety Sense, which includes adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and lane departure warning.
Comfort and Space
With a 3260 mm wheelbase, the Shark delivers a roomy cabin for five passengers, featuring ventilated and heated seats with electric adjustment. Soft touch materials and effective sound and heat insulation further elevate comfort levels.
The Hilux, on the other hand, emphasizes practicality. Its durable interior and wide storage areas are designed for heavy duty use and long journeys, though it feels less refined compared to the Shark.
Safety Systems
The Shark comes equipped with ten airbags, ESP, ABS, electronic brake distribution, and advanced systems like lane keeping assist and driver attention warning.
Meanwhile, the Hilux offers proven safety with adaptive cruise control, emergency braking assist, lane departure alert, a rearview camera, and front and rear parking sensors. It also holds strong crash test ratings thanks to its reinforced body.
Price and Value in the UAE
The BYD Shark is expected to start at around AED 200,000, while the Toyota Hilux begins at roughly AED 114,900. This price gap highlights the different philosophies: the Shark focuses on hybrid innovation and premium features, while the Hilux prioritizes affordability, practicality, and high resale value.
In conclusion, the Shark appeals to buyers seeking cutting edge technology and strong performance, while the Hilux remains the trusted choice for those who value reliability, cost efficiency, and proven desert toughness.
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