Can you see yourself driving a Denza?
Having had major success in the UK with its main eponymous brand, BYD is launching its Denza premium sub-brand. The first Denza SUV to launch is the Bao 5, a plug-in-hybrid 4x4 that promises off-road ability and impressive performance on asphalt.
The Denza Bao 5 is clearly channeling well-known 4x4s such as the Land Rover Defender, Toyota Land Cruiser, Ineos Grenadier and Ford Bronco. The Bao 5 employs the classic off-roader styling cues of wide arches, a blocky front end, a large cabin area and a tailgate-mounted spare wheel.
A 150hp 1.5-litre petrol engine doesn’t sound like much, but luckily the engine is primarily there to keep the 31.8kWh battery running. Officially, the battery gives a 56-mile electric range, with a total range of 537 miles with both fuel sources fully topped up.
With an electric motor on each axle, the Bao 5’s total power output is 544hp. So, despite having the aerodynamic coefficient of a brick, it’ll sprint from 0-62mph in five seconds on the way to a 112mph top speed.
The powertrain is set up for off-road driving, and the Denza’s credentials continue with a ladder chassis, three electronic locking differentials and ‘intelligent’ hydraulic suspension.
Weighted fuel consumption stands at 68.9mpg, while you can expect 26.4mpg when the battery’s empty. You get 11kW AC charging and 100kW DC fast-charging capability – which is better than many full-blown electric cars. A 30-80% charge takes 16 minutes at its maximum rate – although remember that that equates to adding 30 miles of charge.
The Denza Bao 5’s interior is highly screen focused – there’s a 15.6-inch centre touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a head-up display and a passenger-facing second touchscreen. You get Google features built in to the infotainment system (including Google Maps), and there’s a voice assistant with four-zone detection so it should always work out who’s talking.
The standard trim is called Elegance, and this also includes 18-inch alloy wheels, fixed side steps, a heated steering wheel, a 50W wireless phone charging tray, a 16-speaker Devialet sound system and a panoramic sunroof. The front seats are heated, ventilated, powered and offer massaging functions.
The Ultimate model is slightly longer than the Elegance, and packs in more equipment such as a digital rearview mirror, two extra speakers, another wireless phone charger and Nappa leather.
Measuring 4.9 metres long and 1.97m wide, the Denza Bao 5 is a big car. Denza promises impressive rear-seat space and a 475-litre boot (increasing to 1,736 litres with the seats folded). Towing capacity stands at 2,500kg.
As well as the Tarim Polar Gold paint on the car in our pictures, the Bao 5 comes in black, grey, white, blue, green and matte purple. You can choose from beige, blue or green upholstery options.
Prices are likely to start from around £70,000, and you’ll be able to order a Denza Bao 5 soon.
Dreaming of a Denza?
If you can’t wait for the Denza Bao 5 to launch, or your pockets don’t quite stretch deep enough, check out our used 4x4 cars for sale or read our guide to the best hybrid 4x4s to buy now.
