Pickups in the UAE are no longer just workhorses, they have become status symbols for power, adventure, and modern technology. In 2025, the competition heats up between the BYD Shark 6, the first plug in hybrid pickup from the Chinese automaker, and the Ford Ranger Raptor, the American desert beast. Which one takes the crown in the UAE market?
The biggest gap lies under the hood. The BYD Shark 6 runs on a 1.5 liter turbo engine paired with two electric motors (PHEV setup), delivering 429 hp and 650 Nm of torque. It sprints from 0 to 100 km per hour in just 5.7 seconds and offers up to 100 km of pure electric driving. The Ford Ranger Raptor relies on a 3.0 liter twin turbo V6 producing 392 hp and 583 Nm, hitting 100 km per hour in 6.0 seconds. Its advanced FOX suspension and rugged 4WD system are tuned for the desert. The Shark 6 wins on speed and efficiency, while the Raptor dominates in off road toughness.
On the road, both pickups make a bold statement but with very different personalities. The Shark 6 wears sleek lines, a body colored grille, and stylish 19 inch wheels, creating a modern urban look. The Raptor takes the aggressive route with a huge black grille shouting FORD, chunky 17 inch Beadlock wheels, and rugged desert ready bodywork. Both use LED lighting and roof rails, while the Raptor adds a power assisted tailgate for practical use. The Shark appeals to city drivers, the Raptor to adventurers.
Step inside and the difference is clear. The Shark 6 offers luxury with ventilated leather seats, a massive 12.8 inch center screen, a 12 inch head up display, and a panoramic sunroof. It even adds an 8 speaker Dirac audio system. The Raptor goes for durability with sturdy sport seats, a 12.4 inch driver focused screen, and a premium 10 speaker B&O sound system, but it skips the panoramic roof. Both come with wireless phone charging. Shark 6 feels like a luxury SUV inside, while Raptor sticks to tough practicality.
When it comes to protection, the Shark 6 offers seven airbags, Level 2 ADAS semi autonomous features, and a 360 degree camera. The Raptor includes six airbags, hill descent control, and stability assist, focusing more on mechanical confidence. Pricing shows a big gap. The Shark 6 Premium starts at 158,900 AED and the Off Road trim around 178,900 AED. The Ford Ranger Raptor begins at 233,000 AED. The Shark 6 saves buyers about 25 percent while packing more tech, but the Raptor justifies its premium with unmatched off road power.
Started my career in Automotive Journalism in 2015. Even though I'm a pharmacist, hanging around cars all the time has created a passion for the automotive industry since day 1.
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