BYD will expand its footprint in Australia later this year with the arrival of its premium Denza sub-brand, confirmed to launch in November 2025 with two plug-in hybrid SUVs aimed squarely at the off-road and touring market.

The first arrivals will be the Denza B5, a Prado-sized five-seater, and the larger three-row B8. Both are built on BYD’s DMO platform and feature ladder-frame construction with off-road hardware. Local pricing is still to come, but in China the B5 ranges from the equivalent of around $61,500-$75,000 and the B8 from roughly $80,600-$86,600.

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“This is a landmark moment in the Australian automotive industry,” said Mark Harland, Denza Australia COO. “Denza will offer a whole new range for consumers wanting a slice of luxury and the latest in innovation. It’s built for explorers, pioneers, and leaders. For those who see roads as invitations, not boundaries, we know Denza will be one of the most exciting premium brand launches to date.”

The Denza B5 shares its underpinnings with the BYD Shark 6, running a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with twin electric motors and a 31.8kWh Blade battery. On paper, outputs sit at 505kW and 760Nm, with a 0-100km/h claim of 4.8 seconds, though Australian specs are yet to be confirmed. The battery supports 100kW DC fast charging and provides about 100km of EV-only range. Off-road features include adaptive dampers, locking front and rear diffs, a simulated low-range function and eight drive modes.

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The larger Denza B8 is sized to compete with the LandCruiser 300 Series and Nissan Patrol, stretching 5195mm long with a 2920mm wheelbase. Power comes from a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol unit, twin e-motors and a 36.8kWh Blade battery, producing a claimed 550kW and 760Nm. Like the B5, it posts a 4.8-second 0-100km/h figure. Suspension is air-adjustable, offering up to 310mm of clearance, while front, centre and rear locking diffs are fitted.

Inside, both models take a tech-heavy approach, with the B5 offering a 15.6-inch rotating display and the B8 stepping up to a 17.3-inch unit backed by dual passenger screens, a 50-inch AR head-up display and high-end audio.

Dealer details and final specifications for Australia remain unannounced, but with right-hand drive testing already spotted locally, Denza is clearly preparing for a direct challenge to established 4×4 players.

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