Denza B5 and B8 detailed for Aussie arrival

DENZA, an offshoot of Chinese manufacturer BYD, is readying the launch of two off-road focused models for the Australian market in early 2026.

The Denza B5 and B8 are large segment four-wheel drive SUVs with plug-in hybrid drivelines, sold respectively as the Fengchengbao Leopard 5 and Leopard 8 in China.

Available in five-, six-, and seven-seat configuration, they are said to target the likes of the Toyota LandCruiser Prado and Ford Everest, with sights also set of the Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series Hybrid.

All are built on BYD’s DM-O (Dual Mode Offroad) super-hybrid ladder frame platform and use petrol engines largely as generators powering two electric traction motors, one per axle.

The petrol engine can also drive the vehicle on its own.

The B5 combines a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with dual-motor 4WD, BYD’s Blade Battery technology, and an “intelligent” drivetrain.

Based on the BYD Shark 6 utility it will launch in two variants – the standard B5 and the more premium B5 Leopard sharing the same plug-in hybrid powertrain delivering 425kW and 760Nm of torque.

Electrons emanate from 31.8kWh battery and are claimed to offer up to 90km of pure electric range (WLTP) and support DC fast charging up to 100kW.

Denza claims the B5 Leopard has serious off-road capability with DiSus-P hydraulic adaptive suspension, front and rear electrically actuated mechanical differential locks and a 3000kg braked towing capacity.

The B5’s five seat interior provides up to 1064 litres of cargo space, the cabin equipped with a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display.

Nappa leather upholstery is included, as are a suite of advanced safety features encompass a 360-degree camera and 11 airbags.

The range-topping B8 will be offered in six- and seven-seat configurations both powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine/generator integrated with a plug-in hybrid dual-motor 4WD system rated at 450kW and 760Nm.

It is electrified via the same 31.8kWh Blade Battery as the B5, provides DC fast charging up to 120kW. It also features a 91-litre fuel tank for extended range driving.

Off-road capability is also enhanced by DiSus-P hydraulic suspension as standard, electric differential locks (front and rear on the six-seater), while towing capacity is likewise 3500kg braked.

Inside the B8 reveals a luxurious three-row cabin also finished in Nappa leather with heated, ventilated and massaging seats for “ultimate” comfort.

The interior is equipped with a -6ºC to 50ºC cooler/hotbox and in six-seat configuration, the second row is upgraded with individual captain’s chairs for added space and comfort.

The tech suite includes a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital driver’s instrument panel anchoring the cockpit and an “immersive” 18-speaker Devialet audio system.

Safety equipment highlights include 14 airbags, a 360-degree camera system, and an extensive array of ADAS technologies.

Denza will be pitched as a “premium” brand through a dedicated dealer network with its own corporate image, much like Lexus that has been building its Aussie profile for 30-plus years.

The Chinese importer says it will have 15 dealerships (in capital cities) by the end of Q1 next year with more in the pipeline.

“With the B5 and B8, Denza is taking a swing at the establishment,” said Denza Australia chief operating officer Mark Harland.

“They’re 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.”