BYD Australia has so far kept quiet about the details of its upcoming Denza luxury sub-brand, which is set to make its local debut later this year. However, a clearer picture of what Australian buyers might expect has emerged from the brand’s activities in the Middle East. In Qatar, for example, two Denza models—the B5 and B8 SUVs—have been unveiled, showcasing updated exterior styling and distinctive Denza-specific badging on their redesigned front ends.
Until recently, both the B5 and B8 had only been seen carrying Fangchengbao branding, which is the badge they wear in BYD’s domestic Chinese market. The switch to Denza logos and slight styling changes suggest that BYD is tailoring the vehicles differently for global markets. The B8, in particular, distinguishes itself from its Fangchengbao sibling with a restyled bumper, a unique front scuff plate, and the omission of the roof-mounted camera system seen on the Chinese version. Meanwhile, the B5 retains a design closer to its Fangchengbao counterpart, the only notable difference being its Denza-specific badging.
Both SUVs share key structural and mechanical similarities, as they are built on a ladder-frame chassis. This design approach, combined with their plug-in hybrid powertrains, positions them as competitors to rugged, family-friendly SUVs like the Toyota Prado and Ford Everest. The B5 is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine paired with two electric motors. Together, this setup delivers a combined output of 505kW and 760Nm in overseas markets. For buyers seeking more performance, the B8 raises the stakes with a larger 2.0-litre engine, which pushes the output to 550kW while retaining the same 760Nm of torque.
Interestingly, both the B5 and B8 also share their underlying platform and powertrain technologies with the BYD Shark 6 ute, though the ute is tuned differently. The Shark 6 is rated at 321kW and 650Nm, highlighting how BYD is leveraging modular technology across its expanding model range.
Beyond the B5 and B8, which have already been spotted in Australia under camouflage during testing, BYD has broader ambitions for its Denza luxury brand. In China, the Denza line-up already includes a diverse range of vehicles such as the D9 people mover, the N7 family SUV, and the Z9 sedan/wagon. It remains unclear which of these additional models, if any, will be brought to Australia. However, industry watchers suggest BYD could also draw from its Fangchengbao or Yangwang sub-brands to further strengthen Denza’s offerings in the local market.
As the official launch approaches, anticipation is building around Denza’s potential to shake up Australia’s premium SUV and hybrid segments by offering high-tech, high-performance alternatives to established players.