This marks a new phase in BYD’s European expansion with the launch of its premium brand, Denza. Having recently unveiled the Z9 GT – a true showcase of the brand’s technological prowess – Denza has now officially announced the arrival of a second model in Europe: the D9 DM-i. A vehicle with a very different positioning, yet one that reflects the group’s overall ambition.
DENZA: a premium brand designed as a showcase for technological innovation
Positioned above BYD’s traditional range, Denza represents a clear move upmarket.
Originally launched as a joint venture with Mercedes-Benz, the brand is now fully integrated into BYD and draws on all the technologies developed by the group: batteries, dedicated platforms and advanced hybrid systems.
The aim is clear: to offer vehicles in Europe that can compete with premium models, whilst showcasing technological expertise gained from the Chinese market.
This strategy was first demonstrated with the Z9 GT, a model focused on performance and innovation. But Denza isn’t stopping there.
D9 DM-i: a hybrid MPV to expand the range
It is indeed the D9 DM-i that has been officially unveiled as the second model to be available in Europe. Denza is taking a complementary approach. Whilst the Z9 GT serves as a showcase for technology and sportiness, this new model is aimed at a completely different market: that of the premium family car.
This is a strategic decision. The premium MPV segment remains largely unelectrified in Europe, presenting an opportunity for a distinctive offering.
And where it really shines is in its range. The D9 is powered by BYD’s “Super DM-i” plug-in hybrid technology, which combines a combustion engine with electric propulsion to deliver both efficiency and versatility.
According to the figures released, this car has a range of up to 210 km in 100% electric mode on the WLTP cycle, and with Super DM-i technology, it can cover up to 950 km on a combined cycle. Specifically, this is made possible by the introduction of a hybrid powertrain combining a 1.5-litre engine with electric motors, delivering a combined output of around 350 horsepower and accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.6 seconds.
When it comes to charging, the D9 DM-i’s Blade battery, with a capacity of 58.5 kWh, can go from 20% to 97% in just 12 minutes.
A striking exterior design, tailored for the premium segment
Beyond its powertrain, the D9 DM-i focuses above all on comfort and space. Indeed, measuring over 5.20 metres in length, 1.960 metres in width and 1.90 metres in height, the D9 DM-i fully lives up to its positioning as a premium MPV. The exterior design prioritises presence and prestige above all else, with a front end characterised by a wide chrome grille and a slim light signature that visually elongates the vehicle.
The very straight profile is dictated by the need for interior space. It also features electric sliding doors. At the rear, a light strip running the full width gives the whole design a modern look. Unlike its sister model (the Z9 GT), the D9 is far from a sporty design; the brand has clearly opted for a prestigious aesthetic, in the tradition of premium Asian MPVs.
An interior designed to offer a premium level of comfort
It is inside that the D9 DM-i truly reveals its true character. The cabin is configured to seat six or seven, with priority given to passengers in the second row. These passengers enjoy individual ‘captain’s’ seats that recline extensively and feature massage, ventilation and heating functions, along with electric leg rests.
Some versions go even further with so-called “Zero Gravity” seats, designed to maximise comfort on long journeys. The package is rounded off by a refined interior, combining leather, wood trim and ambient lighting, with particular attention paid to sound insulation. The manufacturer’s press release states that the on-board experience is thus closer to a rolling lounge than a traditional MPV. Sounds tempting!
In terms of digital technology, the cabin features a comprehensive array of screens, including a digital instrument cluster, a large central screen measuring over 15 inches, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a head-up display and several screens for passengers, including those in the rear.
In-car technology and driver assistance systems
The D9 DM-i features a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies: Level 2 semi-autonomous driving, adaptive cruise control, 360° cameras, automatic parking assist, adaptive suspension, and the renowned regenerative braking system, which is often highly effective and enjoyable to drive.
A range that already complements each other
With the combination of the Z9 GT and the D9 DM-i, Denza is already giving a clear indication of its European strategy.
- the Z9 GT, embodying performance and innovation
- the D9 DM-i, designed for both home and business use
Two models, two market positions, but the same underlying strategy: to demonstrate BYD’s ability to cover several segments of the premium market with electrified technologies. This confirms the Chinese group’s ambition to establish a lasting presence in the European market.
