BYD Shark 6 vs Kia Tasman
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Utes 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.
Price Breakdown
The BYD Shark 6 starts from $55,900 before on-road costs, while the Kia Tasman opens at $38,990. That makes the Kia Tasman the more affordable entry point by $16,910.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $61,490 and $42,889 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the BYD Shark 6 by roughly $7,695 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the BYD Shark 6 and Kia Tasman hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 85% for the BYD Shark 6 and 85% for the Kia Tasman.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Kia Tasman packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 0 in the BYD Shark 6.
Both include the essentials: core safety systems.
Feature Showdown
The BYD Shark 6 features a 12.8-inch touchscreen, while the Kia Tasman gets a 12.3-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The BYD Shark 6 stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on the Kia Tasman. The Kia Tasman counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and power tailgate. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The BYD Shark 6 uses a Hybrid producing 321kW and 650Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a AWD layout.
The Kia Tasman responds with a Diesel making 154kW and 440Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 12.5 seconds.
The BYD Shark 6 has the clear power advantage at 321kW vs 154kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The BYD Shark 6 measures 5,457mm long on a 3,260mm wheelbase, 47mm longer than the Kia Tasman at 5,410mm (3,270mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Kia Tasman generally means more rear legroom.
0For towing, the Kia Tasman leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 2,500kg. 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.
11.0m diameter
Good
Based on 11.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $570/year for the BYD Shark 6 and $2,109/year for the Kia Tasman. That is a $1,539 annual difference in favour of the BYD Shark 6.
Estimated annual total: $570 (BYD Shark 6) vs $2,109 (Kia Tasman). The BYD Shark 6 saves you roughly $1,539 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 6 years / 150,000km (BYD Shark 6) vs 7 years / 999,999km (Kia Tasman). The Kia Tasman has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BYD Shark 6 if: You prioritise performance, want lower running costs, or prefer BYD's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Kia Tasman if: You want the lower entry price, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Kia's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Kia Tasman takes 4 of 6 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The BYD Shark 6 will save you roughly $1,539 a year in fuel. The Kia Tasman adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
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.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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