Recently, Denza initiated pre-sales for its Z9 GT, a highly anticipated flagship model among the company’s offerings this year. The second instalment would be the N9 flagship SUV. Until now, the prototype had only been observed closely camouflaged; however, as its unveiling approaches at the end of 2024, emerging images reveal the vehicle with significantly reduced camouflage, enabling us to discern its true shape and noting that the test model now features finalized lighting. While first impressions suggest that the N9 draws inspiration from a vintage Land Rover from certain vantage points.
On closer inspection, the N9’s entrance features a sharply sloping hood that descends rapidly, revealing its generous breadth. The headlight clusters feature a breakup daytime running light design reminiscent of those on the Z9 GT, paired with slim headlights. The entrance presents a mostly enclosed appearance, featuring air inlets situated discreetly along the rearward edge of the fender.
The aspect ratios of these pictures suggest that the N9 requires a significantly larger scale than initially apparent, as the wheelbase appears substantially extended. It’s expected that the SUV will feature advanced rear-wheel steering technology to enhance its agility and ease of handling in tight spaces. As the camera captures the vehicle from above, the car’s design begins to emerge from its camouflage wrap, revealing features such as hidden door handles and a expansive panoramic roof. From this vantage point, the rear exhibits a distinct Land Rover-esque quality, featuring a substantial spoiler situated at the apex of the roofline and a tailgate that plunges downward in a sudden motion. It’s likely that the dimensions of the N9 will confirm its status as a three-row SUV.
A sly glance through the window offers a fleeting peek at what lies within. As expected, the Denza N9’s design seems to borrow heavily from the Denza Z9 GT’s overall aesthetic profile, with a focus on similarity in terms of structure and layout. The design features a three-panel layout at the entrance, complemented by a central console boasting rich wood grain accents and a premium leather-wrapped steering wheel. Like its predecessor, the Z9 GT, this car almost certainly comes equipped with two refrigerators.
While specifics on the N9’s powertrain remain unclear, given its flagship status, it’s reasonable to assume similarities with the Z9 GT; thus, the N9 is likely to feature a three-motor configuration. The Z9 GT’s all-electric variant boasts an impressive 230 kW front motor and two rear electric motors, each delivering a peak power of 240 kW, resulting in a combined output of 710 kW. The Denza Z9 GT’s plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) model will be powered by a BYD479ZQA 2.0T gasoline engine, coupled with three advanced electrical motors. The majority of the engine’s energy output is 152 kW, with the front motor capable of producing 200 kW, while each of the two rear motors yields 220 kW individually? The expected availability of the N9 model is for both Electric Vehicle (EV) and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) types.
Established as a 50:50 joint venture between China’s BYD and Germany’s Mercedes-Benz, Denza initially started out as a collaborative effort. Although Mercedes-Benz initially dominated the market, it has since retreated, allowing BYD to take the reins and assume control of 90% of the business. Currently, a trio of stylish models are available for purchase: the D9 Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) and the N7 and N8 Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs). Deliveries of the Z9 GT are slated to commence in September, with the GT model soon to be accompanied by a sedan variant, simply dubbed the Z9. Here’s a revised version:
We expect the N9 unveiling to occur ahead of schedule, likely before the end of the year, with shipments set to commence in the first quarter of 2025 at the earliest.
Sources: Autohome, Quick Expertise
