Denza D9 Coming to Australia in 2025

BYD’s luxury sub-brand Denza is set to bring its refreshed D9 MPV to Australia in 2025, marking its entry into the local market with a new option for buyers seeking a premium electric minivan.

In an exclusive discussion between BYD representatives and CarSauce in their Shenzhen office, it was confirmed to CarSauce that not only will Denza be entering the Australian automotive market in 2025, but their first model will be the D9.

The D9, which has seen notable success in China, will expand Denza’s footprint globally, bringing a range of luxury features and advanced powertrain options to Australian consumers.

In China, the 2024 Denza D9 recently launched with updates to both its plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and electric (EV) variants.

The model starts at 339,800 yuan, translating to around AUD 71,358 based on the current exchange rate of 1 Chinese yuan to 0.21 Australian dollars, with the top trim reaching 600,600 yuan or approximately AUD 126,126.

The PHEV variant received a price reduction of 10,000 yuan (AUD 2,100), while the EV version saw a decrease of 16,000 yuan (AUD 3,360), making both models more competitive in the market.

Originally launched in 2022, the D9 represented a significant shift for the Denza brand, following a restructuring from a joint venture between BYD and Mercedes-Benz to full ownership by BYD.

The model quickly became China’s bestselling minivan, with 117,978 units sold in 2023 alone. The 2024 refresh of the D9 introduced standard electric suction doors and various interior enhancements, focusing on comfort and technology.

The D9 maintains a bold design and substantial dimensions, measuring 5250mm in length, 1960mm in width, and 1920mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3110mm.

It features a prominent chrome grille at the front and a continuous taillight strip at the rear. Inside, the D9 is available in both 7- and 4-seat configurations, with the Pioneer variant offering a more luxurious experience.

The Pioneer trim includes features like a Forest air purification system, 18-way adjustable seats, massage functionality, and rear entertainment screens, catering to buyers who prioritize comfort and convenience.

The cabin also features a 15.6-inch floating center screen, a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel, and a head-up display.

In a departure from recent trends, Denza has opted for physical buttons on the steering wheel and center console, aiming to enhance usability.

Other features include a game center app, customizable voice assistant, and a new interior color option called “Broad-minded Rice.”

Powertrain options for the D9 are varied, with three PHEV and two EV configurations.

The PHEV models range from the DM-i 970, which pairs a 1.5-liter internal combustion engine (ICE) with a 170-kW electric motor, offering a combined range of 970 km and an EV-only range of 103 km, to the DM-i 1050 and DM-i 980, which include larger battery packs, extended EV ranges, and the availability of 4WD.

The EV variants include the EV 620 and EV 600, both featuring a 103.36 kWh LFP battery and ranges of 620 km and 600 km, respectively, based on the CLTC standard.

The D9’s introduction to Australia is expected to offer a new premium MPV choice for a growing segment of buyers looking for luxury and sustainability.

While final pricing and trims for Australia are yet to be confirmed, the model's combination of PHEV and EV powertrains, along with its extensive list of features, positions it to meet the needs of families and those seeking an upscale electric vehicle.

The D9 will join other BYD models, including the upcoming Shark 6 Ute, which CarSauce recently reviewed.

The Shark 6 is set to launch in Australia on October 29, marking it as the first PHEV Ute in the country, ahead of the Ford Ranger PHEV, expected to arrive in 2025.

The introduction of the D9 underscores BYD’s desire to expanding its presence in Australia and offering a diverse lineup of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.

As Denza prepares for its 2025 launch, more information on specifications, pricing, and features is anticipated, which will provide greater insight into how the brand will position itself within Australia’s evolving electric vehicle landscape.

Denza D9 Specifications Summary

• Dimensions:
  • Length: 5250mm
  • Width: 1960mm
  • Height: 1920mm
  • Wheelbase: 3110mm
• Powertrains:
  • PHEV Variants:
    • DM-i 970: 1.5L ICE (102 kW) + 170 kW e-motor, FWD, 20.39 kWh LFP battery, 103 km EV range, 970 km total range
    • DM-i 1050: 1.5L ICE (102 kW) + 170 kW e-motor, FWD, 40.06 kWh LFP battery, 200 km EV range, 1050 km total range
    • DM-i 980: 1.5L ICE (102 kW) + 170 kW + 45 kW e-motors, 4WD, 40.06 kWh LFP battery, 190 km EV range, 980 km total range
  • EV Variants:
    • EV 620: 230 kW e-motor, FWD, 103.36 kWh LFP battery, 620 km CLTC range
    • EV 600: 230 kW + 45 kW e-motor, 103.36 kWh LFP battery, 600 km CLTC range
• Interior:
  • 7-seat and 4-seat configurations (luxury "Pioneer" version available)
  • 15.6-inch floating touchscreen display
  • 10.25-inch digital instrument panel
  • Heads-up display
  • Physical buttons on steering wheel and center console
  • Game center app and customizable voice assistant
• Key Features:
  • Standard electric suction doors
  • Forest air purification system (Pioneer version)
  • 18-way adjustable seats with massage functionality (Pioneer version)
  • Rear entertainment screens (Pioneer version)
• Exterior:
  • Large chrome front grille
  • Single taillight strip
  • Roof spoiler for sporty design
• Price Range (China):
  • 339,800 to 600,600 yuan (approx. AUD 71,358 – AUD 126,126)
• Launch Date in Australia:
  • Expected in 2025