Detailed Comparison between BYD Shark 6 and Kia Tasman in Saudi Arabia

The midsize pickup truck segment in Saudi Arabia is witnessing growing competition with the arrival of new models that follow different directions. Leading this wave is the BYDKSA BYDUAE BYDKuwait BYDQatar BYDOman BYDBahrain BYDEgypt BYD Shark 6, which introduces a plug in hybrid approach that combines strong performance with the practicality of daily electric driving. On the other side, the Kia TasmanUAE Kia Tasman takes a more traditional path with gasoline and diesel engines designed to meet the demands of towing, hauling, and everyday utility. In the following comparison, we break down their pricing, performance, practical capabilities, interior features, and technology to give you a clear perspective that will help you choose the right option in the Saudi market.

Powertrains and Performance

BYD Shark 6 adopts a plug in hybrid (PHEV) setup that combines a 1.5 liter turbocharged engine with dual electric motors for full time all wheel drive:

• Total output: around 430 hp

• Torque: 650 Nm

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

• Battery: Blade LFP with 29.58 kWh capacity

• Electric range: up to 100 km (NEDC)

• Total driving range: up to 840 km

• Fast charging: 55 kW DC

KiaUAE KiaKSA KiaKuwait KiaQatar KiaOman KiaBahrain KiaEgypt Kia Tasman counters with a more conventional lineup of engines offering wider variety:

• 2.5 liter turbo gasoline engine producing 255 to 277 hp and up to 420 Nm of torque

• 2.2 liter diesel engine producing 207 to 210 hp and 440 Nm of torque

• Transmissions: 6 speed manual or 8 speed automatic

• Drivetrain options: rear wheel drive or all wheel drive depending on trim

Practical and Off Road Capabilities

Kia Tasman is built with heavy duty tasks in mind:

• Towing capacity up to 3500 kg

• Payload exceeding 1000 kg

• Advanced towing features including trailer brake controller

• Ground clearance up to 252 mm in the X Pro trim with driving modes for snow, mud, and sand

BYD Shark 6 balances daily usability with adventure potential:

• Towing capacity around 2500 kg

• Payload reaching 835 kg

• Ground clearance ranging between 230 and 282 mm

• Approach and departure angles of 31° and 19° with multiple terrain modes

• Independent rear suspension with double wishbones offering better comfort on paved roads compared to Tasman’s traditional setup

Technology and Cabin Comfort

BYD Shark 6 leans toward an SUV like luxury approach:

• Rotating 12.8 inch central screen

• 10.25 inch digital cluster

• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

• Fast wireless smartphone charging

• Ventilated and heated front seats

• 360 degree surround view system

Kia Tasman aims for a balance of practicality and tech:

• Dual 12.3 inch wide screens with an additional 5 inch display

• Over the air update support

• Extra off road focused features in X Pro and X Line trims

Safety and Driver Assistance

The Shark 6 comes equipped with ten airbags and a wide suite of driver assistance systems. It has also been listed by ANCAP in regional safety tests with promising preliminary ratings.

The Tasman, on the other hand, adds advanced technologies such as:

• Lane keeping systems

• Blind spot monitoring

• Trailer sway control

• Multiple wide angle cameras

• Customizable trailer settings

Efficiency and Ownership Costs

The Shark 6 stands out in city use, offering up to 100 km of pure electric driving daily before the gasoline engine is needed. Its reported fuel consumption ranges between 2.0 and 7.9 liters per 100 km depending on the charging state.

The Tasman focuses on operational simplicity and easy maintenance, supported by the availability of spare parts and Kia’s wide dealer network in Saudi Arabia. While its fuel consumption is higher than a PHEV, its conventional engines remain favored for reliability and long term durability.

Pricing and Availability in Saudi Arabia

Kia Tasman is officially available through Kia’s dealer network in the Kingdom, with the option to configure trims online. Prices start at around 127,900 SAR for the base LX version and climb with added features, reaching up to the X Pro Plus, which local reports list at approximately 210,478 SAR.

On the other hand, the BYD Shark 6 is still preparing for its local debut in Saudi Arabia. The company has included it in its upcoming lineup but has not released official prices yet. Current estimates are based on its launch in markets like the UAE and Australia, though no confirmed list has been issued by the Saudi dealer. For now, buyers remain in a holding pattern until the official announcement.

Which One Suits Saudi Buyers Best

• BYD Shark 6 is ideal for those seeking a modern pickup that combines daily electric driving, strong performance, and upscale interior features, while still offering weekend adventure potential. However, pricing and local availability remain pending.

• Kia Tasman is the stronger choice for buyers who prioritize heavy towing up to 3,500 kg, a full 1 ton payload, and a wide variety of trims and powertrain options. It also benefits from lower entry prices and an already established dealer presence in Saudi Arabia.