Denza, a luxury brand spun off from BYD, is set to enter the UK market with the Z9 GT—an electrified powerhouse boasting up to 1,000hp.
Key Points:
- Denza is BYD’s premium brand, originally co-founded with Mercedes
- The Z9 GT is a high-performance electric and hybrid shooting brake
- UK orders open after European sales launch in late 2025
- Features a 1,000hp EV or a 920hp plug-in hybrid
- Advanced rear-wheel steering for ultra-tight parking maneuvers
- Expected UK price around £50,000
Denza’s Expansion into the UK
Originally launched in 2010 as a joint venture between BYD and Mercedes, Denza is now fully owned by BYD and has been building a reputation in China’s premium EV market. The Z9 GT will be its first model available in the UK, with orders opening shortly after its European debut in November 2025.
Denza Z9 GT: A Unique Design
The Z9 GT defies easy classification, blending elements of an SUV, an estate, and a coupe. Its design comes from the same mind behind the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione, resulting in a long, sweeping bonnet, aggressive split headlights, and wide arches for a muscular stance. At the rear, its styling echoes the Hyundai Ioniq 6 but with a more aggressive diffuser and a large wing for added presence.
Performance and Powertrain Options
The Z9 GT will be available as both a pure EV and a plug-in hybrid:
- EV Model: Uses three electric motors producing nearly 1,000hp, capable of 0-60mph in just 3.4 seconds—faster than a BMW i5 Touring M60. A 100kWh battery delivers an estimated 391-mile range (based on Chinese test cycles).
- Plug-in Hybrid: A 2.0-litre petrol engine paired with three electric motors, producing 920hp and accelerating from 0-60mph in 3.6 seconds. A 39kWh battery provides up to 125 miles of pure electric range, with a combined full-charge and fuel range exceeding 1,000 miles.
A standout feature is its innovative rear-wheel steering system, allowing the car to rotate on its axis—making parallel parking effortless.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the Z9 GT features a tech-forward cockpit with:
- A 17.3-inch central touchscreen—one of the largest in any car
- A 13.2-inch passenger display for media and navigation controls
- A clean, minimalist design with premium leather and metal accents
UK Availability and Pricing
The Denza Z9 GT will go on sale in Europe in late 2025, with UK orders opening soon after. While pricing is yet to be confirmed, the car costs the equivalent of £40,000 in China—though UK pricing is expected to be closer to £50,000 after import costs.
The Arrival of Denza
BYD has been rapidly expanding its global footprint, and Denza marks its push into the premium electric segment in Europe. With bold styling, extreme performance, and innovative tech, the Z9 GT is set to make a serious impact when it lands in the UK.
