Denza B5 and B8 prove their off-road chops by conquering Beer O’Clock Hill

The all-new DENZA B5 and B8 have proven their off-road capabilities by conquering Beer O’Clock Hill. 

Both vehicles – the B5 in Leopard guise and the B8 six-seater – overcame the tricky climb at Queensland’s Springs 4×4 Park, a notoriously steep and slippery 100-metre ascent that features a 55-degree slope at its steepest point – enough to stop experienced off-roaders in their tracks.

The trials were part of BYD and DENZA Australia’s push to fine-tune their vehicles for Australia’s unique conditions. Aside from standard factory-fitted DiSus-P intelligent suspension, the cars were only modified with Mickey Thompson TM1 Baja Boss All-Terrain 275/55 R20 tyres, as well as traction, torque and throttle software adjustments. The B5 Leopard also carried a prototype aluminium frontal protection kit and roof rack as part of DENZA’s upcoming OEM-approved accessory range.

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With Mountain and Crawl modes engaged, front and rear differentials locked, and low-range selected, both the B5 and B8 powered up the climb without much struggle – even over the infamous uphill rocky mogul that often halts less-capable rigs. The vehicles then handled the downhill run equally smoothly.

“Beer O’Clock Hill is one of the toughest tests in the country, and we are delighted that both the DENZA B5 and DENZA B8 conquered it with authority,” said Mark Harland, DENZA Australia Chief Operating Officer. “Learnings are shared with our Research and Development teams as part of our commitment for continuous refinement and product improvement.”

Data from the test will be sent to DENZA’s R&D teams in China, with new off-road enhancements to be rolled out to Australian B5 and B8 owners via over-the-air updates.

The B5 range comprises Standard and Leopard trims, both running a dual-motor 4WD system producing 425kW and 760Nm. A 31.8kWh battery delivers up to 90km of electric-only range (WLTP) and supports 100kW DC fast charging. The Leopard adds off-road hardware including hydraulic adaptive suspension, front and rear electric differential locks, and a 3000kg towing capacity. The five-seat interior features a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital driver display, Nappa leather trim, 11 airbags, a 360-degree camera, and 1064 litres of cargo space.

Sitting above it, the B8 is offered in six- and seven-seat layouts and produces 450kW and 760Nm, using the same 31.8kWh battery with DC fast charging increased to 120kW. Fuel capacity is 91 litres. Off-road equipment includes hydraulic suspension, electric differential locks – front and rear on the six-seat variant – and a 3500kg towing rating.

Inside, the B8 adds heated, ventilated and massaging seats, captain’s chairs in the six-seat version, premium leather trim, an integrated cooler/hotbox, a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen, 12.3-inch driver display, an 18-speaker audio system, 14 airbags, and a 360-degree camera.

Pricing for the DENZA B5 starts at $74,990 for the Standard and $79,990 for the Leopard. The larger B8 is priced from $91,000 for the seven-seat (7S) and $97,990 for the six-seat (6S).