Jaecoo J8 vs BYD Shark 6
What's the difference?

Jaecoo J8

$27,999 - $53,990

2025 price

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BYD Shark 6

$55,900 - $62,900

2026 price

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Summary

2025 Jaecoo J8

2026 BYD Shark 6

By Dom Tripolone

By Mark Oastler

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 4, 2.0L

Turbo 4, 1.5L

Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Premium Unleaded/Electric

Fuel Efficiency

8.3L/100km (combined)

7.9L/100km (combined)

Energy consumption

21.2 kWh/100km

Electric range

100 km

Battery capacity

29.60 kWh

Seating

Likes

Nice price
Premium cabin
Long warranty

Optional tray design/finish
Ride/handling/performance
Standard equipment

Dislikes

So-so drive
Servicing kinda expensive
No hybrid

2500kg tow rating
Modest engine braking
Wading depth

2025 Jaecoo J8 Summary

The Jaecoo J8 is an odd car.

It’s hard to place exactly where it sits in the market. It’s premium, but very affordable. It's very big but only has five seats. And it’s petrol only, at least for now, in a world that is obsessed with hybrid or electric power.

You’ve probably never heard of Jaecoo. That’s alright it’s only new, but it’s a fresh Chinese brand with big ambitions. A more accurate description is it’s Chery’s premium sub-brand.

And the J8 is its new flagship SUV that has found a little niche that's been left in Australia’s overflowing SUV segment.

It’s about the same size as the Kia Sorento or Hyundai Santa Fe family SUVs, but the J8 is five seats only and ditches the third row for a big boot.

The interior wouldn’t look out of place if it had a three-pointed star on the bonnet but the price tag will have you thinking you can buy two for the price of one.

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2026 BYD Shark 6 Summary

Chinese manufacturer BYD was the first to launch a plug-in hybrid ute in Australia with its Shark 6 PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle). And it has recently become the first to launch a cab-chassis PHEV variant, to boost the Shark 6’s 'workhorse' appeal for tradies and other buyers who prefer their own choice of trays or specialised service bodies. We recently put one to the test to see how it measures up.

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Deep dive comparison

2025 Jaecoo J8 2026 BYD Shark 6

Verdict

It is hard to argue with the sheer amount of stuff you get in the J8 for the price. And that long warranty and capped price servicing program remove the stress of buying into a new brand.

The J8 might be more car than most people need due to its size and lack of third row seating.

It’s okay to drive but isn’t class leading and no hybrid option will count it out for the ever increasing number of Aussies looking to petrol-electric power.

The J8 is a solid machine and well worth a look if you are after glitz and glamour on a budget.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with meals provided.

Verdict

BYD’s Shark 6 continues to break new ground with its work-focused Dynamic PHEV cab-chassis, which impresses with its quiet operation, spirited acceleration, excellent handling, single-digit fuel economy and generous standard equipment at a competitive price. However, its tow rating is one tonne less than PHEV ute rivals which could be a deal breaker for some.

Jaecoo J8 vs BYD Shark 6 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Jaecoo J8 vs BYD Shark 6
What's the difference?