Denza D9 launched in Malaysia – from RM259k, up to 374 PS, 520km range

Back in September, BYD announced its plans to introduce its premium Denza brand to Malaysia. Fast forward to today, and the brand has officially launched its first model here—the Denza D9. Having been open for bookings since last month and previewed just last week, this luxury electric MPV sets its sights on established competitors like the Toyota Alphard and Vellfire, along with its main electric rival, the Zeekr 009.

Originally introduced in 2022, the Denza D9 has already made its way to right-hand drive markets, debuting in Hong Kong last June. This luxury electric MPV is designed to compete directly with the Toyota Alphard/Vellfire and the Zeekr 009, offering premium features, cutting-edge technology, and a spacious, high-end interior.

The most significant highlight? Denza has managed to secure a competitive edge over the Zeekr 009 by offering the D9 at a much more attractive price point. Malaysian buyers will have a choice between two D9 variants priced at:

• Advanced FWD: RM259,000

• Premium AWD: RM309,000

1. BYD Denza D9 Advanced (FWD)

• Motor: Single front-mounted electric motor

• Power Output: 313 PS, 360 Nm

• 0-100 km/h: 9.5 seconds

• Range: 520 km (WLTP)

• Weight: 2,764 kg

The Advanced variant is known as the “Premium” in Thailand and “Elite” in Singapore. The step up from the advanced is the premium variant in Malaysia.

2. BYD Denza D9 Premium (AWD)

• Motors: Dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup

• Power Output: 374 PS, 470 Nm

• 0-100 km/h: 6.9 seconds

• Range: 480 km (WLTP)

Both variants are equipped with BYD’s 103 kWh Blade lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, which supports:

• 166 kW DC fast charging

• 11 kW AC charging

• 30-80% charge in 30 minutes (DC fast charge)

• 150 km of range from a 10-minute charge

To ensure a smooth and comfortable ride, the D9 comes with adaptive damping suspension systems:

• FWD version: Frequency Selective Variable Damping Suspension

• AWD version: DiSus-C Intelligent Damping Body Control System

Inside, the Denza D9 is designed for ultimate comfort, accommodating seven adults up to 180 cm tall. Cargo space is also generous, with room for seven 20-inch suitcases and seven business backpacks.

Interior features wise, Denza has generously provided equally specced cars in the form of both the Advanced FWD and Premium AWD variants. Both the Advanced and Premium versions are equipped with the following standard items:

Key Interior Features:

• Quiet Cabin: Only 64.6 dBA noise level at 120 km/h

• Premium leather upholstery & fabric headlining

• Three-zone independent climate control

• Panoramic glass sunroof

• 6.8L fridge (dual temperature control: -6°C to 50°C)

Seating & Comfort:

• Front seats: 8-way power adjustable, ventilated

• Second-row captain seats: 10-way power adjustable with armrest touchscreens, heating/ventilation, and 10-point massage functions

• Third-row: Four-way manually adjustable seats

• AWD model extras: Front seat massage, driver’s seat memory, Nappa leather upholstery, real wood veneer trim, suede headlining, and a head-up display

Denza has packed the D9 with the latest tech, ensuring a premium user experience:

• 15.6-inch central touchscreen infotainment display (wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay)

• 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster

• 14-speaker Dynaudio audio system

• Three 50W wireless charging pads

• Six USB ports (1 Type A, 5 Type C)

The Denza D9 doesn’t compromise on safety, featuring eight airbags and an extensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

ADAS & Safety Features:

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)

• Front & Rear Cross Traffic Alert with Auto Brake

• Rear Collision Warning

• Lane Departure Warning & Lane Keeping Assist

• High Beam Assist

• Driver Monitoring System

• 360° Surround Cameras

• Five millimeter-wave radars, eight ultrasonic radars

Additionally, the D9 offers four ISOFIX mounts across the second and third rows, ensuring maximum safety for child passengers.

The D9 will be available in three exterior colors:

• Arctic White

• Whale Sea Blue

• Cosmos Black

It rides on 18-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, with:

• Michelin e-Primacy tires (Advanced FWD)

• Continental PremiumContact C tires (Premium AWD)

Now that the pricing for the Denza D9 in Malaysia has been unveiled, it’s going to be interesting to see how it scores within the likes of its own chinese counterpart the Zeekr 009 (RM359,000) and the consumer’s favourite Toyota Alphard (RM538,000) and Vellfire (RM438,000)

With its blend of luxury, technology, and performance, the Denza D9 is sure poised to disrupt the premium MPV segment. But would you choose this and the likes of Zeekr’s 009 over the japanese legends?