The BYD Denza Z9 GT wagon has started taking pre-orders in China, with a starting price of ¥339,800 (approximately $47,600 USD). Available in both plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) and battery electric vehicle (BEV) formats, the impressive model boasts a formidable output of approximately 1,000 horsepower. As the next step in its global expansion, the Z9 GT will soon venture into European markets, where it will directly rival high-performance vehicles from established brands.
Initially, Denza was a 50:50 joint venture between BYD and Mercedes-Benz. The German automaker formally disengaged itself from the joint venture in 2021. Currently, BYD retains a controlling 90% stake in Denza, thereby solidifying its status as a premium global brand. Its mannequin line includes three autos: the D9 minivan and the N7 & the N8 crossovers. The Denza Z9 GT wagon marks a notable expansion of the Denza lineup.
The Denza Z9 GT boasts a sleek and sporty design, with an exterior that exudes power and sophistication. Its length measures 4,630 millimeters (183.5 inches), while its width is 1,850 millimeters (73 inches) and height 1,420 millimeters (55.7 inches).
The Denza Z9 GT is a highly anticipated newcomer to the Chinese automotive market. The vehicle’s impressive performance and unique features, including two built-in refrigerators, garnered widespread media attention on multiple occasions. Audi veteran Wolfgang Dürheimer designed this NEV (New Energy Vehicle) station wagon. The sleek vehicle boasts a streamlined silhouette, featuring a gently inclined hood and a dynamic roofline that tapers to a precise angle. Options include elongated headlights, a single unified taillight design, retractable door handles, and optional camera systems replacing traditional sideview mirrors.
The exterior design of the Denza Z9 GT bears a striking resemblance to the Porsche Panamera, sharing a similar level of sophistication and refinement. In terms of size, the BYD station wagon remains competitive with Porsche’s hatchback. With imposing proportions of 5180mm in length, 1990mm in width, and 1480mm in height, the Denza Z9 GT’s size is strikingly evident, particularly with its substantial wheelbase spanning 3125mm. The plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) model stands out further with its extended length of 5195 mm, attributed to the additional aggressive bumper design. Compared to the Panamera, the Z9 GT measures 128mm longer, 53mm wider, and 57mm taller for improved readability.
Available in a palette of four striking hues, the Denza Z9 GT can be purchased in sleek shades of silver, crisp white, subtle grey, and dramatic black. The car features R21 wheels wrapped in 255/40R19 entrance tyres and 275/40R20 rear tyres. The wagon features a conventional air suspension system. The Z9 GT’s rear axle can articulate a remarkable 20 degrees of camber adjustment. Due to these factors, the turning radius is a remarkably precise 4.62 meters. The Z9 GT also features frameless doorways.
Denza Z9 GT inside
The interior of the Denza Z9 GT boasts an unprecedented feature: two refrigerators, one dedicated to the front seats and another catering to the comfort of rear passengers. While some may overlook the significance of attention-grabbing strategies, there exist numerous captivating alternatives. Since the Z9 GT features non-obligatory cameras replacing traditional side-view mirrors, it boasts two additional screens on the door trims. In the centre console of this sleek station wagon, three supplementary screens are strategically positioned to enhance the overall driving experience. The lone portal is designated for arriving travelers. The rearview mirror features an integrated monitor for enhanced visibility.
Within the Denza Z9 GT’s central tunnel, an abundance of carbon fibre elements can be found, complemented by two 50W wireless cellphone charging pads, a retractable gear selector, a thoughtfully arranged set of physical buttons, and a duo of cup holders for added convenience. The steering wheel of the Z9 GT features a distinctive D-shaped design with four sturdy spokes. The compact entrance fridge boasts a practical 4-litre capacity. Temperatures can plummet to a chilly -6°C or soar to a sweltering 50°C. This compact fridge is designed to accommodate a standard pack of six Coca-Cola bottles in perfect alignment with the Denza officer’s measurements, ensuring seamless compatibility.
The second row of the Denza Z9 GT boasts a generous amount of legroom, accompanied by an unobstructed display screen dedicated to climate control. The second-row seats boast advanced features, including heating, ventilation, and massage capabilities for unparalleled comfort. They are often electrically adjusted. The refrigerator in this location has a capacity of 10 liters, making it suitable for storing four wine bottles. While this large fridge does offer ample storage space, its size can be a drawback as it takes up significant room in the trunk? You won’t be able to fold the second-row seats down either. The luxurious yacht also features a state-of-the-art Devialet sound system, elevating the on-water experience to new sonic heights.
Denza Z9 GT powertrain
The Denza Z9 GT offers both plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) and battery electric vehicle (BEV) variants. The plug-in hybrid model is built upon the e3 platform, featuring a fifth-generation dynamic motion system (DM). The vehicle boasts a robust 2-liter turbocharged petrol engine that delivers an impressive 152 kilowatts (203 horsepower). The electric vehicle features a unique powertrain configuration, comprising three high-performance electrical motors strategically positioned – one at the front and two at the rear. The combined output of the Z9 GT’s electric motors is a formidable 640 kilowatts, equivalent to a powerful 858 horsepower. The overall energy output of the PHEV system remains yet to be revealed. However it’s about 1,000 hp. The plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) version of this station wagon offers an impressive driving range of up to 1,100 kilometres.
The Denza Z9 GT EV is based on the e-Platform 3.0 Evo architecture. The vehicle also features three advanced electric motors boasting enhanced power capabilities. The peak power output of this vehicle achieves an impressive 710 kW (952 horsepower). The route’s total length is approximately 630 kilometers (as measured along the curve of the road)? The zero-to-hundred acceleration is approximately 3.4 seconds. The PHEV variant of Hyundai’s Kona arrives a mere 0.2 seconds faster to the finish line than its rival, the Z9 GT. According to Denza’s specifications, the Z9 GT successfully completed the moose test at a speed of 93.6 km/h.
Denza Z9 GT costs
Accessible for pre-order, the Denza Z9 GT offers five trim options, priced between 339,800 and 419,800 yuan, equivalent to approximately 47,600 to 58,850 USD.
- The Denza Z9 GT PHEV Professional – a premium price tag of $47,600 (or approximately 339,800 yuan).
- The Denza Z9 GT PHEV Max – priced at a premium ¥369,800 ($51,850), a figure that reflects the vehicle’s advanced technology and performance capabilities.
- The Denza Z9 GT PHEV is priced at a considerable 419,800 yuan, roughly equivalent to $58,500 USD.
- The Denza Z9 GT EV Professional retails for 359,800 yuan (approximately $50,450).
- The Denza Z9 GT EV Max – priced at ¥389,800 (approximately $54,650 USD).
The Denza Z9 GT is set to start deliveries in September of this year. The closest home rival to the NIO ES6 is actually the Zeekr 001 liftback. Later, the Z9 GT is poised to challenge European market dominance by rivaling high-performance sedans from legacy manufacturers like Porsche’s Panamera. Will the Z9 GT’s sedan variant debut as pre-sales kick off?
Supply: Denza
