BYD Reviews: What Are Kiwis Saying About BYD?
August 28, 2026 1:43 pm
BYD Reviews: What Are Kiwis Saying About BYD?
If you’ve been looking at your next vehicle, chances are you’ve come across BYD. The brand has quickly become a familiar name on New Zealand roads, offering a growing range of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles designed around the way Kiwis drive.
But what are people actually saying about BYD?
From the ATTO 3 and SEAL to the SHARK 6, BYD has picked up strong reviews and industry recognition in New Zealand. Here’s what makes the range worth a closer look.
A Growing Reputation in New Zealand
BYD may be a relatively new name to many New Zealand drivers, but it has made a big impression since launching locally.
The ATTO 3 was recognised with multiple awards, including New Zealand Autocar’s Car of the Year and AA Driven’s Clean Car BEV Car of the Year. The SEAL has also picked up awards across categories including value, EV and overall car of the year.
More recently, the SHARK 6 took out the overall 2024 New Zealand Autocar Car of the Year award, as well as Ute of the Year. Reviewers highlighted its combination of performance, technology, practicality and plug-in hybrid capability.
So, what are reviewers liking about BYD?
Technology Without the Premium Price Tag
One of the biggest talking points across BYD reviews is the amount of technology and equipment you get for your money.
The ATTO 3, for example, launched with features including a large rotating touchscreen, advanced driver assistance technology and BYD’s Blade Battery technology.
The result is a vehicle that feels modern and well-equipped without necessarily requiring a premium budget.
For drivers around Central Otago, that technology can be particularly appealing when you’re spending plenty of time behind the wheel — whether that’s commuting around town, heading over the Crown Range or getting further afield.
The SHARK 6 Is Getting Attention Too
If an EV isn’t quite what you’re looking for, BYD’s plug-in hybrid range offers another option.
The SHARK 6 has received particularly positive attention from New Zealand automotive reviewers. Reviews have highlighted its smooth and powerful hybrid drivetrain, refined interior and practical ute capabilities.
The latest SHARK 6 Performance takes things further, with 350kW of power, 700Nm of torque and up to 3,500kg of towing capacity — making it an interesting option for drivers who need a vehicle that can handle both everyday driving and heavier jobs.
What About Everyday Kiwi Driving?
This is where a test drive really matters.
Reviews can tell you about technology, performance, efficiency and specifications, but they can’t tell you exactly how a vehicle will feel on your regular roads.
If you’re based in Queenstown or Cromwell, you’ll know that Central Otago driving can mean a bit of everything — town driving, winding roads, longer trips, changing weather and plenty of kilometres.
The right BYD will depend on what you actually need from your vehicle.
You might be looking for the practicality of an SUV, the efficiency of an EV, the flexibility of a plug-in hybrid or the towing ability of the SHARK 6.
See What the BYD Range Is Really Like
With a growing range of electric and plug-in hybrid models available in New Zealand, there’s now more choice than ever when it comes to BYD.
At Central Otago Motor Group, you can explore the BYD range locally in Queenstown and Cromwell, with sales, servicing and parts available through the team.
Rather than relying on reviews alone, come in and see what the BYD range is like for yourself.
Book a test drive with Central Otago Motor Group today and find the BYD that fits your lifestyle.