GWM Cannon Alpha vs BYD Shark 6
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 GWM Cannon Alpha starts from $52,990 before on-road costs, while the BYD Shark 6 opens at $55,900. That makes the GWM Cannon Alpha the more affordable entry point by $2,910.
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 $58,289 and $61,490 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the BYD Shark 6 by roughly $9,835 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the GWM Cannon Alpha and BYD Shark 6 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 84% for the GWM Cannon Alpha and 85% for the BYD Shark 6.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The GWM Cannon Alpha 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 GWM Cannon Alpha features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, while the BYD Shark 6 gets a 12.8-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The GWM Cannon Alpha stands out with power tailgate that you will not find on the BYD Shark 6. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The GWM Cannon Alpha uses a 2.4L 4-cylinder Turbo Diesel producing 135kW and 480Nm of torque, sent through a 9-speed automatic to a 4WD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.5 seconds.
The BYD Shark 6 responds with a Hybrid making 321kW and 650Nm, paired to a automatic driving all four wheels.
The BYD Shark 6 has the clear power advantage at 321kW vs 135kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The GWM Cannon Alpha measures 5,445mm long on a 3,350mm wheelbase, 12mm shorter than the BYD Shark 6 at 5,457mm (3,260mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the GWM Cannon Alpha generally means more rear legroom.
0For towing, the GWM Cannon Alpha 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.
13.0m diameter
Large
Based on 13.0m 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 $2,537/year for the GWM Cannon Alpha and $570/year for the BYD Shark 6. That is a $1,967 annual difference in favour of the BYD Shark 6.
Estimated annual total: $2,537 (GWM Cannon Alpha) vs $570 (BYD Shark 6). The BYD Shark 6 saves you roughly $1,967 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 7 years / 999,999km (GWM Cannon Alpha) vs 6 years / 150,000km (BYD Shark 6). The GWM Cannon Alpha has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the GWM Cannon Alpha if: You want the lower entry price, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer GWM's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BYD Shark 6 if: You prioritise performance, want lower running costs, or prefer BYD's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The GWM Cannon Alpha takes 3 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The BYD Shark 6 will save you roughly $1,967 a year in fuel. The GWM Cannon Alpha 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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