We get a short feel of the Denza D9 luxury MPV before its launch in Malaysia
Did you know that Mercedes-Benz and BYD were partners in an electric car brand? Yes, it was called ‘Denza’ and there was a luxury sedan and also a luxury MPV. The Denza brand was established in 2010 and now it is ready for global expansion.
After its European debut and positive vibes from attending guests, the Denza brand is now 100 percent owned by BYD. So why did Mercedes-Benz give up its 10 percent stake in Denza in August 2024? Well, that story is for another day.
Meanwhile, we were invited to the city of Changsha in China by BYD for the official launch of the right hand drive version of the Denza D9 MPV which confirmed our earlier guess that the Denza brand will be launched in Malaysia to compete with the petrol powered Toyota Alphard, the electric Maxus MIFA9 and also the soon to launch electric Zeekr 009 MPV.
Before Malaysia, in early October 2024 the Denza D9 was launched in Singapore and it was well received.
The Denza D9 luxury MPV comes in two specifications, the ‘Elite’ front-wheel-drive (FWD) and the flagship ‘Grandeur’ all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant. This large luxury electric MPV measures over 5,250mm in length, 1,960mm in width and 1,920mm in height. The Denza D9 powertrain delivers a maximum power of 268hp and a peak torque of 360Nm.
Equipped with a high-performance permanent magnet synchronous motor and BYD’s blade battery, the Denza D9 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.9 seconds, delivering decent performance for a large luxury electric vehicle.
The D9 is powered by a 103 kWh battery and 275kW electric motor, providing an impressive 600km driving range on a single charge. Denza D9’s ultra-fast charging capability comes courtesy of an 800V platform which allows the D9 to recharge from 30 percent to 80 percent in just 30 minutes.
Get inside and there is Nappa leather seats, premium wood veneers and extensive use of soft-touch materials where it matters. This is a proper luxury people mover and rivals the Alphard and even the Zeekr 009 at a lower price point.
There is a central 15.6-inch touchscreen on the center dashboard that provides all the necessary functions and features.
The D9 features a state-of-the-art multimedia system enhanced by Dynaudio sound (14 speakers), offering passengers a sublime auditory experience and even providing in-car karaoke for long distance drives.
Interestingly, rear seat comfort is great, starting with the second row, where the power-adjustable captain’s chairs come with their own infotainment screens and massage functions. These seats compete with the Lexus LM.
Third row eating is also ‘space ready’ for adults without any ‘pinching’. So, 7 adults will be able to take a class best journey without a hitch.
Our Short Drive Impression
From the system start-up this large MPV’s screens lit up to show us a multitude of functions. Very comfortable and plush front seats confirmed its segment intentions.
This D9 was directed at the super luxury segment. The doors shut with a solid ‘thud’ and the cabin was very well insulated. We tapped the accelerator and the D9 smoothly glided forward with every intention to go faster. It was easy to work the steering along the provided obstacle course and there was no wallowing or pitching as we took tight quick turns. Very composed, the D9 was designed to give rear passengers the best possible road comfort.
Looking at the level of cabin comfort and features, it will be another fast selling product for the BYD Group, but we hope that they will also introduce their hybrid version with is capable of delivering 1,000 km on a full tank of fuel with its 1.5 turbocharged DM-I super hybrid powertrain.
