In a market hungry for electrified SUVs, BYD’s luxury arm, Denza, has confirmed its Australian debut with the Denza B5 and Denza B8. The brand has revealed full specifications for the duo, a pair of plug-in hybrid 4x4s designed to combine electric efficiency with serious touring ability.
Positioned as “electrified adventure” vehicles, both models are built on BYD’s advanced DM-O (Dual Mode Off-road) super-hybrid platform, combining zero-emission urban commutes with efficient, high-torque performance for Australia’s wide roads.
Powered by BYD’s Dual Mode Offroad Hybrid Tech
Both the Denza B5 and Denza B8 are built on BYD’s advanced DM-O (Dual Mode Offroad) platform. This hybrid architecture pairs dual-motor all-wheel drive with BYD’s patented Blade Battery technology, delivering instant torque, long touring range between tank fills, and off-road capability.
According to the Chinese carmaker, this combination brings a new balance of efficiency and adventure to the luxury 4×4 segment, something very few plug-in hybrids currently offer in Australia. Some of the other luxury PHEVs available right now down under are the Lexus NX 450h+, Volvo XC60, BMW X3 30e xDrive and Audi Q8.
The move marks Denza’s first step outside China, with Australia set to become one of its key right-hand-drive markets.
Denza B5 & B8 powertrains
Both Denza SUVs share a core plug-in hybrid philosophy, but differ in their output and charging capabilities. The common thread is a substantial 31.8kWh Blade Battery, providing a useful pure-electric range for daily commutes, backed by a potent internal combustion engine for total range.
| Feature | Denza B5 | Denza B8 |
| Total System Output | 425 kW | 450 kW |
| Total System Torque | 760 Nm | 760 Nm |
| Battery Capacity | 31.8 kWh | 31.8 kWh |
| Pure Electric Range (WLTP) | Up to 90 km | Not specified |
| DC Fast Charging | Up to 100 kW | Up to 120 kW |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | Not specified | 91 L |
| Towing Capacity | 3,000kg (Leopard) | 3,500kg |
The details about the combustion-half of these hybrid powertrains are yet to be disclosed. This plug-in hybrid setup with an energy dense battery promises the best of both worlds: silent, cheap-to-run electric mobility for the school run, combined with the reliability and range of a hybrid for crossing the Simpson Desert.
Denza B5 vs. Denza B8 – Key Differences
Denza B5: The adventure tourer
The Denza B5 will launch in Australia in two variants: the standard B5 and the more hardcore B5 Leopard. Both are five-seaters with a cavernous 1,064-litre boot, but the Leopard variant gets the serious off-road kit:
- DiSus-P Hydraulic adaptive suspension: Adjusts to changing surfaces for better control and a smoother ride on bumpy roads.
- Front & rear Electrically-actuated diff locks: Essential for extreme rock crawling and low-traction scenarios.
- 3,000kg towing capacity: Putting it squarely in contention with established diesel rivals.
Inside, the occupants are treated to a tech-forward cabin with BYD’s signature rotating 15.6-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display, and Nappa leather upholstery. Safety is covered by 11 airbags and a 360-degree camera system plus a suite of ADAS features.
DENZA B8: Flagship luxe-barge
The Denza B8 is the undisputed flagship of the range as a full-size three-row SUV, offered in both six- and seven-seat configurations. It takes the B5’s capability and layers on significant luxury and technology features.
- Spacious cabin: Features soft-closing doors and premium Nappa leather throughout.
- First-class seating: Heated, ventilated, and massaging seats are standard. The six-seat (6S) model upgrades the second row to individual captain’s chairs.
- Premium amenities: Includes a -6ºC to 50ºC cooler/warmer box and an immersive 18-speaker Devialet audio system.
- Superior protection: A class-leading 14 airbags provide a comprehensive safety cocoon.
Off-road, the Denza B8 doesn’t hold back. It comes standard with the DiSus-P hydraulic suspension, and the six-seat model adds both front and rear electronic diff locks, making it a luxury-styled fortress with surprising terrain-conquering ability.
“A Swing at the Establishment,” says Denza
“The Denza B5 and Denza B8 are purpose-built, premium SUVs that offer something the market hasn’t seen before — combining cutting-edge tech, serious off-road capability, and luxury that doesn’t ask you to compromise,” said Denza COO Mark Harland.
On paper, these offerings take on the BMW X5 xDrive50e, Range Rover Sport PHEV, and Volvo XC90 Recharge. The Denza B5 and Denza B8 are clearly positioned to disrupt Australia’s premium hybrid SUV segment.
Denza launch in Australia
Interested buyers can now register their interest in the Denza B5 and Denza B8, ahead of orders opening in early December 2025. Australian pricing, final specifications, and dealership details will be announced closer to launch.
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