Words: Kyle Cassidy
Published 10 April 2026
BYD has added to its line up in New Zealand with the launch of a more capable Shark 6 Performance and the efficiency-focused Seal 06 Touring plug-in hybrid wagon.
Shark 6 Performance ups the ante
The BYD Shark 6 Performance builds on the existing Shark platform with a series of upgrades.
Power has been increased to 350kW, up 30kW over the Shark 6 Premium, while torque climbs to 700Nm. It is said that the gains are aimed at improving performance under load and in more demanding off-road conditions, with revised drivetrain tuning to better suit rugged terrain such as farm tracks, forestry roads and beaches.
A key headline figure is its improved 3500kg towing capacity, putting it on par with established players in the segment and making it a more viable option for commercial and rural buyers. Payload reduces slightly, down 60kg to 730kg however. BYD notes that Shark 6 Performance drivers towing above 2500kg will require a Class 2 licence in New Zealand, due to the combined weight.
Priced from $76,990 plus on-road costs, the Shark 6 Performance is set to arrive in May. The existing Shark 6 Premium remains available from $69,990.
Seal 06 Touring targets efficiency and range
Also joining the line up is the BYD Seal 06 Touring, a new plug-in hybrid wagon.
Powered by BYD’s latest DM 5.0 Super Hybrid system, the Seal 06 Touring combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and the brand’s Blade Battery technology. The result is a claimed driving range of more than 1000km.
Read more – BYD Seal 6 Touring here in NZ soon
Its 19kWh battery enables up to 100km of pure electric driving in test scenarios, making it well suited to daily commuting without fuel use, while still offering the flexibility of petrol for longer trips.
Priced from $54,990 plus on-road costs, BYD NZ reckons it presents an alternative to traditional SUVs, pairing efficiency with practicality. Boot space measures 670 litres, expanding to 1535 litres with the rear seats folded, while features such as roof rails and a powered tailgate add to its versatility.
Focus on local needs
BYD New Zealand says both models reflect a stronger focus on meeting local requirements.
“New Zealanders don’t want compromise—they want vehicles that actually fit how they live and work,” said general manager Warren Willmot.
“Kiwis asked us for more towing, more power and tougher off-road performance, and that’s exactly what the Shark 6 Performance delivers. At the same time, families and businesses told us they wanted to drive further while spending less, and the Seal 06 Touring does that better than anything else in its class.”
The Seal 06 Touring is available to order now with deliveries expected from late June, while the Shark 6 Performance will begin arriving from May. Further additions to BYD’s New Zealand line-up are expected later this year, including models featuring ultra-fast charging capability.
