Private track test compares three pickups

In 2026, Carwow conducted a private off-road test comparing the BYD Shark, Toyota Hilux, and Ford Ranger across six extreme challenges. Each vehicle represented different technologies: the BYD Shark as a Chinese hybrid, the Toyota Hilux as a Japanese diesel, and the Ford Ranger as an American hybrid.

Vehicles’ specifications and features

The BYD Shark has a 1.5-liter turbo gasoline engine with two electric motors, producing 436 hp and 650 Nm of torque. It also has a 32.2 kWh battery for about 88 km of electric driving. The Toyota Hilux uses a 2.8-liter diesel engine with 204 hp and 500 Nm of torque, and includes a transfer case and rear differential lock. The Ford Ranger hybrid has a 2.3-liter gasoline engine and electric motor, producing 281 hp and 697 Nm of torque, with similar mechanical features to the Hilux.

First two tests show Hilux’s strength

In the first test, a hill climb on a loose track, the Toyota Hilux finished first, earning three points, while the Ford Ranger took second with two points and the BYD Shark came last with one point. In the second test, focusing on maneuverability and ground clearance, the Hilux completed the course in 23.24 seconds without damage, earning three points. The Ford Ranger was disqualified, and the BYD Shark earned two points by avoiding damage.

Third and fourth tests highlight different strengths

In the third test, which involved climbing and descending steps, the BYD Shark earned two points, the Hilux one point, and the Ford Ranger lost a point. In the fourth test, a standing start on earth, the BYD Shark’s powerful 436 hp engine allowed it to take the lead, followed by the Ford Ranger and the Toyota Hilux. After this round, the Hilux and the BYD Shark had eight points each, while the Ranger had six points.

Final two tests determine the winner

In the fifth test, descending a steep slope as slowly as possible, the Hilux was the fastest, followed by the BYD Shark. The Ford Ranger won by descending in reverse and receiving a bonus point. In the final test, a climb on a slippery rocky slope, the Ford Ranger showed superior traction and torque, finishing first. The Toyota Hilux came second, and the BYD Shark finished last due to a loss of grip. The final scores were Ford Ranger with 13 points, Toyota Hilux and BYD Shark with 11 points each.

Test results highlight each vehicle’s strengths

The test revealed the BYD Shark’s strong acceleration, the Toyota Hilux’s performance in traditional 4x4 scenarios, and the Ford Ranger’s adaptability on the specific course. Each vehicle’s design and technology influenced its performance in different off-road conditions.