BYD M9 vs Volkswagen Crafter
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular People Movers compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
BYD M9
Price TBC
People Mover
Plug-in Hybrid
Electric Motor
—
—
ANCAP: no data
—
Volkswagen Crafter
From $70,990
People Mover
Diesel
Diesel I4 Bi-Turbo TDI
130kW
8.5 L/100km
ANCAP: no data
2530L
Plug-in hybrid fuel economy is shown as a hybrid (battery depleted) so it compares fairly with the other car. A PHEV's official "combined" figure assumes you start every trip fully charged, so real-world economy depends on how often you plug in. Electric range shows how far it goes before the petrol engine is needed.
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Price Breakdown
Pricing for one or both models is yet to be confirmed for the Australian market. We will update this comparison when official RRPs are announced.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Charging Times
How long each takes to charge — from a household power point to ultra-rapid DC — estimated from battery size and max charge rates.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems.
The Volkswagen Crafter counters with Apple CarPlay that the BYD M9 does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
Detailed powertrain specifications are not yet available for both models.
Space & Comfort
The BYD M9 measures 5,145mm long on a 3,045mm wheelbase, 841mm shorter than the Volkswagen Crafter at 5,986mm (3,640mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Volkswagen Crafter generally means more rear legroom.
For towing, the Volkswagen Crafter leads with a 2,500kg braked capacity vs 1,500kg. That 1,000kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
14.0m diameter
Large
Based on 14.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BYD M9 if: You or prefer BYD's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Volkswagen Crafter if: You need stronger towing, or prefer Volkswagen's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Volkswagen Crafter takes 1 of 1 key spec categories. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, BYD M9 and Volkswagen Crafter?
The Volkswagen Crafter is the cheapest at $70,990 before on-road costs.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Volkswagen Crafter uses the least fuel at 8.5L/100km on the combined cycle.
What are the ANCAP safety ratings?
None of BYD M9 and Volkswagen Crafter carry a published ANCAP rating yet — check back as they are tested.
Which can tow the most?
The Volkswagen Crafter has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,500kg.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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