The BYD Shark 6 has been named the inaugural Wheels Ute of the Year (UOTY) for 2025–26, taking top honours ahead of eight other dual-cab contenders.
The award marks the first time Australia’s longest-running motoring publication has run a dedicated Ute of the Year program, reflecting the growing importance of the dual-cab segment in the local market.
“Redefining what most buyers actually need”
Wheels Managing Editor Trent Nikolic said the Shark 6 stood out for its real-world performance, particularly in urban driving.
“The BYD Shark 6 wins Wheels Ute of the Year by redefining what most buyers actually need: a quiet, refined, technology-rich dual-cab that drives like a car, covers daily commutes on electric power, offers outstanding value, and excels in real-world urban use,” Mr Nikolic said.
“Backed by five-star safety, it pairs rapid acceleration and SUV-like dynamics with generous space, low running costs and plug-in flexibility, making it a Swiss Army knife for modern dual-cab buyers.”
Tested against established rivals
The Wheels judging panel assessed nine leading dual-cab utes using the publication’s established Car of the Year testing criteria. Extensive testing was conducted at Victoria’s Lang Lang Proving Grounds, with a strong emphasis on everyday usability rather than traditional worksite-focused measures.
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The Shark 6 finished ahead of the GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV in second place, with the Ford Ranger V6 Sport rounding out the podium in third. Judges found that in city traffic and urban driving conditions, the Shark 6 outperformed conventional dual-cab rivals, particularly in refinement, drivability and efficiency.
Hybrid efficiency a key factor
The BYD Shark 6 is a four-door dual-cab featuring a plug-in hybrid drivetrain, with the judging panel highlighting its ability to complete daily commuting on electric power while retaining the flexibility expected of the segment. BYD Australia Chief Operating Officer Stephen Collins said the award reflected local development work.
“This award is a testament to the efforts of BYD engineers who tuned the Shark 6 to Australia’s tough conditions and unique lifestyle requirements,” Mr Collins said.
“The result is a vehicle that has been duly recognised for its all-round ability as both workhorse and family car.”
Where to read more
Extended test results on the BYD Shark 6 and the other finalists appear in the February 2026 edition of Wheels, available now. Full reviews of the winner, runners-up and the entire field are also available here
Wheels UOTY 2025-26 Finalists
BYD Shark 6
Ford Ranger V6 Sport Double Cab 4×4
GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV
Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain
KGM Musso Ultimate XLV
Kia Tasman X-Line
Mazda BT-50 GT
MGU9 Explore Pro
Volkswagen Amarok PanAmericana