BYD is preparing to introduce a new automotive brand in Malaysia next year, with Denza being the name of the new addition, as confirmed by BYD Malaysia Managing Director Eagle Zhao. During the uncovering of the BYD Seal Dynamic today, Zhao announced that Denza will make its Malaysian debut in the first quarter of 2025.
Although specific models haven’t been disclosed, it is anticipated that the Denza D9 will be the brand’s flagship vehicle for the Malaysian market. The D9 was seen in Malaysia in July this year.
Initially introduced in China in 2022, the Denza D9 made its right-hand-drive debut in Hong Kong in June. It comes with both battery-electric and plug-in hybrid powertrains. The electric version features a substantial 103 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery and supports fast charging up to 166 kW.
The standard Denza D9 EV, equipped with a front electric motor delivering 313 PS and 360 Nm of torque, can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 9.5 seconds and offers a range of up to 620 km based on the CLTC testing standard. The all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant adds a rear motor producing 61 PS and 110 Nm, boosting total power to 374 PS and torque to 470 Nm, reducing the 0-100 km/h time to 6.9 seconds but with a range of 600 km.
The D9 can also be fitted with a plug-in hybrid powertrain, combining a 139 PS/231 Nm 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine with a 231 PS/340 Nm electric motor. AWD versions include an additional rear motor, but the plug-in hybrid version is less likely to be introduced immediately due to current incentives.
The Denza D9 will face competition from models like the Zeekr 009, which is also set to arrive in Malaysia, and will contend with established names such as the Toyota Alphard and Vellfire.