Denza B8 plug-in hybrid SUV on its way to Malaysia, ROI opens

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's plug-in hybrid SUV segment is set to welcome a new and strong contender in the form of the Denza B8. Yes, the second Denza model is on its way to Malaysia. 

Denza Malaysia has opened registrations of interest for the B8, which made its official debut in Africa and the Middle East last year. It is basically a rebadged version of the Bao 8 sold under BYD’s premium off-roader sub-brand Fangchengbao in China. 

While the details of the upcoming Denza PHEV are yet to be revealed, we can look at the global model for reference. 

Denza B8: What to expect?

A sturdy off-roader SUV

The Denza B8 is a three-row sturdy off-roader SUV that measures 5195 mm in length, 1994 mm in width, and 1875 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,920 mm. The SUV has a maximum ground clearance of 310 mm with approach and departure angles estimated at 34 and 35 degrees, respectively. 

Bold and off-road-inspired design 

The SUV boasts a bold and off-road-inspired design with a boxy and muscular stance. The full-size proportions, large bumpers, wide wheel arches, and a high bonnet line give it a proper big SUV feel. 

Upfront, we can see a blackened radiator grille with vertical bars mated to ‘starship wing’ LED headlights joined by a thin LED strip. The rear looks equally striking with a squared-off tailgate, “starship thruster” LED tail lights and a rear-mounted spare wheel. 

Luxury-focussed cabin 

The Denza B8 has a sophisticated and technology-focused cabin, offering a comfortable riding experience to all passengers. Globally, the automaker offers both 6- and 7-seater layouts. The space is wrapped with fine materials, soft-touch surfaces, and crystal-like buttons with premium detailing. 

The dashboard houses a four-spoke steering wheel and three displays - a 12.3-inch LCD instrument panel, a 17-inch infotainment unit and a 12.3-inch front passenger monitor. Other key highlights include -

• Augmented-reality head-up display
• Wireless phone charging pad
• 16-speaker Devialet sound system
• 4-zone voice interaction system
• Premium Nappa leather upholstery
• Power-adjustable front and second-row seats 
• Heated, ventilated and massaging seats
• 360-degree camera system
• -6ºC to 50ºC cooler/hotbox
• 14 airbags
• Full suite of advanced driver-assistance systems

Electrified muscle under the bonnet

The B8 comes powered by BYD’s Dual Mode Off-road Super Hybrid system, offering a smooth and power-packed performance. Here are the detailed specifications -

Engine	2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder engine
Engine output	245 PS and 380 Nm
Motors	Two electric motors
Motors output	272 PS/360 Nm (front) 408 PS/400 Nm (rear)
Combined output	748 PS and 760 Nm
Transmission	Dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT)
0-100 km/h acceleration	4.8 seconds
Battery	36.8 kWh Blade LFP
Range	Electric - 125 km Combined - 1,200 km (with 91.5 litre fuel tank)
Charging time	30 to 80% in 16 minutes (with 120 kW of DC fast charging)

Ready for any terrain 

Based on a body-on-frame chassis, the Denza B8 is built for durability and rough terrains. Contributing to its off-road capabilities are -

• High-performance 20-inch tyres
• Terrain modes: Mud, Sand, Snow, and Rock
• Front and rear locking differentials
• High ground clearance (310 mm)
• 890 mm water wading depth
• Intelligent suspension system (Disus-P)

That’s it for now. For further updates on the Denza B8 arrival in Malaysia, stay tuned. 

Also read: Denza Z9GT coming to Malaysia, here's what to expect?