The updated BYD Denza D9 all-electric MPV features a more powerful AWD powertrain delivering 550 hp combined, a 181 hp increase over the 2025 model, positioning it as a stronger contender in the luxury EV minivan market. This upgrade includes a rear e-motor boost to 456 hp, enhancing performance for family transport and executive use. For EV buyers seeking spacious, high-power MPVs, this refresh addresses prior power limitations while retaining Denza’s focus on comfort and range.
Background: Denza’s Rise in Premium EV MPVs
Denza, a premium brand under BYD Auto, launched the D9 in May 2022 as its first model post-restructuring, available in battery electric (EV) and plug-in hybrid (DM-i) variants. Built on BYD’s e-Platform 3.0 for the EV and DM-i platform for hybrids, the D9 targets the luxury MPV segment with features like zero-gravity seats and advanced chassis tech. Recent updates introduced a Luxury base trim, Starry Grey colour, passenger dashboard screen, 10-screen interconnectivity, and enhanced refrigerator functions.
In markets like Malaysia, the D9 EV starts at RM259,000 (approx. $55,000 USD) with a WLTC range of 520 km, emphasising its export potential. Denza positions the D9 against traditional MPV leaders by combining EV efficiency, Blade Battery safety, and luxury amenities like DiSus-C smart damping for superior ride control.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Updated D9 EV AWD (2026) | Current D9 EV (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Combined Power | 550 hp | 369 hp (inferred from 181 hp boost) |
| Rear e-Motor | 456 hp (+148 hp) | 308 hp |
| Wheelbase | 3,110 mm | 3,110 mm |
| Dimensions (L/W/H) | 5,250/1,960/1,900 mm | 5,250/1,960/1,900 mm |
| NEDC Range | 600 km | 600 km |
| WLTC Range | 520 km | 520 km |
| 0-100 km/h | 6.9 s | 6.9 s |
| 10-min Charge Range | 150 km | 150 km |
| Charging | 800V dual-gun | 800V dual-gun |
| Seating | 7 seats | 7 seats |
| Battery | 103.36 kWh Blade LFP | 103.36 kWh Blade LFP |
Note: Acceleration and range figures from official Denza sites; power upgrade specific to exposed 2026 AWD model. Curb weight around 2,775-2,870 kg for similar trims.
Powertrain Upgrade Analysis
The headline change is the AWD system’s jump to 550 hp total, with the rear motor alone at 456 hp – a 148 hp increase that could sharpen acceleration beyond the current 6.9 s 0-100 km/h. This addresses feedback on earlier models’ moderate performance in the heavy MPV class (over 2,700 kg), making it more competitive for highway merging and overtaking. Dual e-motors retain front-wheel bias with AWD grip, paired with BYD’s 800V architecture for 150 km added in 10 minutes.
Range holds at 600 km NEDC (520 km WLTC), supported by the 103.36 kWh Blade LFP battery, known for safety via nail penetration tests and 9 SRS airbags. External discharge (6 kW) and trunk 220V outlet (2.2 kW) add utility for camping or power tools.
Interior and Comfort Features
The D9 excels in passenger space: third-row legroom up to 1,040 mm, 170 mm corridor width, and second-row captain seats with 10-way adjustment, 6-way headrests, leg rests, and massage. A heating/cooling fridge with cloud control and forgotten-item alerts highlights family focus. Noise at 64.6 dB at 120 km/h, DiSus-C damping, and Comfortable Control tech minimise motion sickness.
Tech includes 5G, 6-nm chip voice assistants, physical camera shut-off for privacy, and deluxe audio. Trunk expands from 410-570 L, fitting air beds for road trips. Updates add third-row power seats and 10-screen linkage.
Safety and Chassis
Five-star safety with Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blade Battery, and 9 airbags. DiSus-C, tuned by experts, handles body roll and maintains balance during accel/decel. Ground clearance around 20 cm suits urban and light off-road.
Comparison with Competitors
| Model | Power (hp) | Range (WLTC/NEDC) | 0-100 km/h (s) | Price (est. start) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Denza D9 EV AWD (2026) | 550 | 520 km WLTC / 600 km NEDC | 6.9 | $55,000 (Malaysia equiv.) |
| Toyota Alphard Hybrid | 250 (system) | ~1,000 km total | 8.0+ | $100,000+ |
| Zeekr 009 EV | 536-789 | 582-700 km CLTC | 4.5-6.9 | $70,000+ |
| IM Motors LS7 EV | 612 | 660 km CLTC | 4.0 | $80,000+ |
The D9 undercuts premium rivals on price while matching power post-update; Zeekr 009 offers similar hp but higher cost, Toyota lags in EV power.
Verdict
This 550 hp Denza D9 EV refresh delivers substantial performance gains for a luxury MPV without confirmed range trade-offs, ideal for large families or executives needing 7-seat EV space with 500+ km usability. It suits China and emerging markets like Malaysia, but global launches, exact pricing, and real-world efficiency await confirmation. Unanswered: CLTC range for updated model, U.S./EU availability, and final acceleration times.
