DENZA D9 launches in Malaysia: EV luxury MPV from RM260k

KUALA LUMPUR:  DENZA, the premium sub-brand under BYD, has officially entered the Malaysian market through the launch of its flagship model, the DENZA D9.

The all-electric seven-seater MPV is set to stir up the local luxury people mover scene, bringing a blend of sophisticated design, innovative tech in an all-electric package.

The DENZA D9, first introduced in 2022, has already made waves in China with its balance of business-class type luxury and family-friendly practicality. 

Also Read: BYD Atto 2 lands in Europe; Will it come to Malaysia?

Available in two variants—the Advanced FWD priced at RM259,000 and the Premium AWD at RM309,000—the D9 is built on BYD’s advanced e-Platform 3.0, equipped with a Blade Battery that delivers a range of up to 600 km (NEDC) for the FWD version and 580 km for the AWD model. 

The main difference between the two is that the Advanced FWD features front-wheel drive, which prioritizes efficiency and range, while the Premium AWD includes all-wheel drive for better traction and performance, particularly in wet or slippery conditions.

Power-wise, the Premium AWD packs 374PS and sprints from 0-100 km/h in just 6.9 seconds, while the Advanced FWD delivers 313 PS with a 0-100 km/h time of 9.5 seconds.

As expected, charging is quick and convenient with a DC fast-charging capability of up to 166 kW and an 11 kW AC option for home charging.

To entice early adopters, BYD is rolling out an exclusive launch package for the first 800 buyers.

This limited-time offer includes a complimentary 22kW wallbox with installation, free scheduled servicing for six years or up to 120,000km, plus premium perks such as an exclusive DENZA neck and waist pillow set and a stylish DENZA luggage bag.

Stepping inside, the DENZA D9 does live up to its luxury billing. The 2+2+3 seating configuration features ventilated and massaging second-row captain seats with electric leg rests, a retractable table, and an in-car refrigerator with a temperature range from -6 °C to 50 °C.

Meanwhile, passengers can enjoy the immersive audio experience from 14 Dynaudio speakers paired with 7.1-channel surround sound.

Up front, the driver gets a 15.6-inch center control screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 10.25-inch 3D digital instrument cluster, and a W-HUD head-up display.

There’s also a 50W wireless charger available for both the first and second rows. Connectivity is enhanced with a 4G network, car Wi-Fi hotspot, and OTA updates.

Safety and driver assistance are equally comprehensive. The DENZA D9 is packed with features like Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and Lane Intelligent Pilot (ICC).

But safety isn't just about advanced driver assistance systems—passive safety features play a crucial role too. The DENZA D9 is built with a high-strength steel frame and equipped with airbags across all three rows, providing robust protection for every passenger.

On the design front, the D9 features sleek meteor track-inspired lines, an elegant π-Motion front grille, and Arrow Tail Lights that add to its visual appeal.

Buyers can choose from three exterior colours:

• Arctic White
• Cosmos Black
• Whale Sea Blue

While the interior is available in:

• Brown or Beige (with Beige exclusive to the AWD Whale Sea Blue variant).

“DENZA not only offers cutting-edge technology but also provides sustainable benefits aligned with a vision of an emission-free future,” said Liu Xueliang, General Manager of BYD Asia Pacific Auto Sales Division.

“Today marks a momentous occasion for DENZA as we officially launch in Malaysia, offering an innovative vehicle that redefines luxury driving. DENZA not only offers cutting-edge technology but also provides sustainable benefits aligned with a vision of an emission-free future. DENZA's technology has already received an overwhelmingly positive response from global consumers, and we are incredibly enthusiastic to receive the same positive response from the Malaysian public,” he continued

The arrival of the DENZA D9 marks BYD’s expansion into Malaysia’s premium segment, with Eagle Zhao, Managing Director of BYD Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., stating, “The introduction of DENZA caters to the needs of diverse drivers within Malaysia, offering a more premium selection while expanding the product portfolio of BYD. With the launch of our first model, the DENZA D9 is our first pure electric EV MPV that combines advanced innovation, elegant design, and luxurious features. We look forward to seeing Malaysians experiencing DENZA and its premium and cutting-edge technology features.”

Adding to the premium experience, DENZA has partnered with French luxury audio brand DEVIALET to elevate its in-car sound system, ensuring a concert-like experience on the go.

The MPV is backed by a six years or 150,000 km warranty, while the Blade battery is protected for eight years or 160,000 km. As for the drive unit (motor), it comes with an eight-year or 150,000 km warranty.

Also announced at the launch, Denza will be rolling out a cross-border after-sales warranty programme spanning Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand, ensuring peace of mind for users traveling between the three countries.

With its competitive pricing, advanced features, and emphasis on both luxury and sustainability, can the DENZA D9  make an impact on Malaysia’s growing EV market? 

Only time will tell, but it looks like DENZA isn’t stopping with the D9. As part of the launch event, the brand surprised attendees with a showcase of the DENZA Z9 GT, hinting at what might come next.

While there's no official confirmation of its arrival—especially since it's currently available only in left-hand drive—BYD has certainly kept the Z9 GT on our radar. Whether it was during media visits in China or now in Kuala Lumpur, the car continues to make an impression.

And if we take Eagle Zhao, Managing Director of BYD Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., at his word—when he hinted that more DENZA models are on the way—it's not a stretch to imagine that the Z9 GT could be next in line.

For those curious, the Z9 GT comes in both fully electric (BEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants, offering a glimpse into DENZA’s future lineup.

Also Read:  BYD Seal Performance: Why perhaps It’s the 2024 Sedan of the Year