New BYD Mako ute: What to expect from the game-changing lifestyle ute due in 2027 to join BYD Shark 6

The way we use utes in Australia is changing and BYD is preparing one that could take this to the next level. 

BYD’s monocoque ute, called the Mako in South America, has been steadily making progress towards an official launch.

Read More About BYD

• BYD confirms an Australia-specific model is on the way as it builds on success of 2026 BYD Shark 6 to fend off Zeekr and Chery
• BYD’s new ute spotted in the wild as sub-Shark 6 car-based ute nears production as new rival to 2026 KGM Musso EV and Geely Riddara RD6
• BYD Baby Shark 6 mystery deepens!

A monocoque chassis underpins SUVs, hatchbacks and sedans, giving it superior and more comfortable driving dynamics compared to ladder frame alternatives on more conventional utes such as the Ford Ranger and BYD Shark 6. 

A monocoque ute combines a car-like driving experience with sufficient towing and carrying capacity.

SUV-based ute have gathered steam globally, with the Ford Maverick a big hit in the US and several SUV-based workhorses under development, including a Toyota Corolla-Cross based utility.

There is a strong chance this ute could appear in Australia. BYD recently confirmed it is plotting a model to specifically target the Australian market. Could it be the Mako? 

The Mako will be officially unveiled in September and will first go to South America, but its international potential means Australia is not out of the question. 

Here is what me know so far about BYD’s promising new ute. 

What will power the next BYD Mako? 

It is expected to feature a plug-in hybrid set-up, but it will not be the same as currently found in the bigger Shark 6. 

Instead, it will use the hybrid set-up found in the Sealion 6 mid-size SUV. 

In the Sealion 6, its 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine and electric motor set-up produces up to 253kW and 550Nm, which is in the same ballpark as a V8-powered Holden Commodore ute.

They are some impressive numbers for a small ute.

The Mako is rumoured to produce 175kW when it lands in South America, with European reports indicating power will be closer to 200kW. In Europe it will be dubbed the ‘Shark 5’. 

It is also expected to have an electric-only driving range of around 100km.  

What will the new BYD Mako look like? 

BYD’s new ute has already been spotted in spy shots undergoing testing in China. 

They show a rounded overall body shape and a more compact tray compared to conventional utes. 

It also appears to ride lower than other ladder frame utes, while still providing a decent amount of ground clearance. 

The front grille gets a similar look to the one currently found on the Sealion 5 SUV, along with an integrated rear sports bar. 

How much will the new BYD Mako cost? 

Pricing remains a little while off, especially from an Australian perspective, but we can expect it to come in cheaper than the Shark 6 on sale, which starts from $55,990 (before on-road costs). 

There is likely to be more news on the price front for the Mako later this year when it launches in September. 

When will the new BYD Mako arrive? 

With other markets likely to get the Mako towards the end of this year, the earliest we can expect it to land in Australia would be 2027. 

BYD is known for its ability to launch new models and change directions quickly, so don’t rule out its Aussie prospects.