Toyota HiLux 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 Toyota HiLux starts from $33,990 before on-road costs, while the BYD Shark 6 opens at $55,900. That makes the Toyota HiLux the more affordable entry point by $21,910.
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 $37,389 and $61,490 respectively.
The BYD Shark 6 qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Toyota HiLux, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the BYD Shark 6 by roughly $9,925 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Toyota HiLux and BYD Shark 6 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 84% for the Toyota HiLux and 85% for the BYD Shark 6.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Toyota HiLux packs more ADAS features with 3 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 0 in the BYD Shark 6.
Both include the essentials: core safety systems.
Feature Showdown
The Toyota HiLux 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 Toyota HiLux stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto 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 Toyota HiLux uses a 2.8L 4-cyl Turbo-Diesel producing 150kW and 420Nm of torque, sent through a manual to a 4x2 layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.2 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 150kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Toyota HiLux measures 5,380mm long on a 3,085mm wheelbase, 77mm 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 Toyota HiLux leads with a 2,900kg braked capacity vs 2,500kg. That 400kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.8m diameter
Good
Based on 10.8m 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 $2,081/year for the Toyota HiLux and $96/year for the BYD Shark 6. That is a $1,985 annual difference in favour of the BYD Shark 6.
Estimated annual total: $2,081 (Toyota HiLux) vs $96 (BYD Shark 6). The BYD Shark 6 saves you roughly $1,985 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Toyota HiLux) vs 6 years / 150,000km (BYD Shark 6). The BYD Shark 6 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Toyota HiLux if: You want the lower entry price, need stronger towing, or prefer Toyota's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the BYD Shark 6 if: You prioritise performance, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer BYD's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The BYD Shark 6 takes 3 of 5 key spec categories. The BYD Shark 6 will save you roughly $1,985 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.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Toyota HiLux and BYD Shark 6?
The Toyota HiLux is the cheapest at $33,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the BYD Shark 6 by $21,910.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The BYD Shark 6 uses the least fuel at 2L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Toyota HiLux and BYD Shark 6 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which can tow the most?
The Toyota HiLux has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,900kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The BYD Shark 6 has the longest warranty at 6 years / 150k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The BYD Shark 6 makes the most power at 321kW.
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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