Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class vs BYD Shark 6
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular cars 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 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class starts from $57,900 before on-road costs, while the BYD Shark 6 opens at $55,900. That makes the BYD Shark 6 the more affordable entry point by $2,000.
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 $63,690 and $61,490 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the BYD Shark 6 by roughly $6,415 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class and BYD Shark 6 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 96% for the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class and 85% for the BYD Shark 6.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class 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 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class features a 10.3-inch touchscreen, while the BYD Shark 6 gets a 12.8-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and ambient lighting that you will not find on the BYD Shark 6. The BYD Shark 6 counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class uses a Petrol producing 120kW and 250Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.2 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 120kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class measures 4,688mm long on a 2,729mm wheelbase, 769mm shorter than the BYD Shark 6 at 5,457mm (3,260mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the BYD Shark 6 generally means more rear legroom.
0For towing, the BYD Shark 6 leads with a 2,500kg braked capacity vs 1,800kg. That 700kg 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 $1,853/year for the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class and $570/year for the BYD Shark 6. That is a $1,283 annual difference in favour of the BYD Shark 6.
Estimated annual total: $1,853 (Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class) vs $570 (BYD Shark 6). The BYD Shark 6 saves you roughly $1,283 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class) vs 6 years / 150,000km (BYD Shark 6). The BYD Shark 6 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class if: You or prefer Mercedes-Benz's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BYD Shark 6 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer BYD's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The BYD Shark 6 takes 5 of 6 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The BYD Shark 6 will save you roughly $1,283 a year in fuel. The BYD Shark 6 adds peace of mind with a longer 6-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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