Denza D9: yays and nays 

Denza Philippines just launched the D9 multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), which serves as its initial offering in the Philippine upmarket segment. 

Considered the bigger cousin of the BYD eMAX 9, it is touted as a beefier, more tech-heavy nameplate for those who opt to travel with opulence in mind. 

On that note, we take a quick look at the yays and nays of the Denza D9, to help those looking to improve their journeys. 

Other news: Hyundai brings Pikachu, Ditto to select models  Suzuki starts selling eVitara in India, will PH have it soon? Mercedes-Benz to launch all-new VLE on March 10

Pros 

Loaded technological appointments 

One of the strongest suits of the Denza D9 is its abundance of technological features that help improve one’s quality of travel. 

Starting things off with what the driver gets to enjoy: a fully digital instrument cluster, a head-up display (HUD), and an infotainment system. 

The instrument panel — which measures 10.25 inches — is integrated with the dashboard, and makes the cabin look more seamless. The HUD looks crisp and clear even in broad daylight, allowing drivers to take in relevant driving information without removing their eyes from the road. 

Lastly, the 15.67-inch floating infotainment screen allows integration of compatible smartphones and control of the MPV’s many functions. 

Other notable features include a wireless charger, automatic climate control, and a full center console with an armrest and a spacious compartment. 

More toys can be found at the back, as those who will be purchasing the Denza D9 will likely be spending time in the second row. 

The seats are finished in premium leather and boast zero gravity technology, which means they provide optimal comfort and optimal distribution of weight to relieve back and pelvic stress during long drives. 

They have ventilation and a massage function, which truly transforms one’s traveling experience and can make even the worst traffic jam into something owners can look forward to. 

Seat adjustment is done via dedicated screens and allows occupants to deploy footrests when the seat is pushed back. A pull-down table is available for people who like to snack when traveling or get some work done on the road. For keeping cold beverages cool and hot food warm, a small fridge (that doubles as a warmer) can be found at the bottom of the center armrest. 

For in-car audio, owners will be treated to a 14-speaker Dynaudio sound system that delivers good sound quality. Storage-wise, it offers 41 compartments with a 2,310-liter luggage capacity. 

And for those who crave exclusivity, the Denza D9 is fitted with real wood veneers that make each MPV unique. The natural wood grain and ring patterns ensure each vehicle gets a dash of individuality. 

Eco-friendly powertrain 

Under the hood of the Denza D9 is a 1.5-liter engine paired with two electric motors — providing it with all-wheel drive power. It gets juice from a 40-kilowatt-hour Blade battery with a pure electric range of 180 kilometers (km) in a single charge. Combined range is at 970-980 km. 

Below are its performance figures: 

Engine maximum power (in horsepower [hp>)	128
Engine maximum torque (in Newton-meters [Nm>)	220
Front electric motor maximum power (in hp)	227
Front electric motor maximum torque (in Nm)	340
Rear electric motor maximum power (in hp)	60
Rear electric motor maximum torque (in Nm)	110

The Denza D9 has a total power output of 400 hp and a maximum torque of 681 Nm. The MPV can zoom from a standstill to 100 kilometers per hour in 7.9 seconds. 

Stopping power comes from four ventilated disc brakes and an intelligent power braking control system. Suspension-wise, it uses MacPherson struts at the fore with a multi-link setup at the rear, with DiSus-C intelligent damping suspension helping owners enjoy a comfortable ride. 

Aside from being fuel-efficient, the Denza D9 also allows owners to reap the benefits and perks offered by the government to those who buy electrified vehicles. 

Backed by BYD 

For those who do not know, Denza is owned by BYD and is the Chinese carmaker’s premium arm. Hence, eagle-eyed readers would recall that the MPV uses the Blade battery, which powers many BYD models. 

BYD Group Chairman Wang Chuanfu said: “The collaboration between BYD and Mercedes-Benz is a ‘powerful partnership’ combining BYD’s battery, motor, and motor controller technology with Mercedes-Benz’s vehicle manufacturing expertise and safety philosophy.” 

Cons 

Single trim availability

The Denza D9 is sold in the Philippines in a single variant and is priced at P4.298 million. This means that buyers will have to settle for whatever specification is available for the said trim and not have the option to select various grade levels that would suit their needs.  

For the Chinese market, the Denza D9 is sold in two variants, Advanced and Premium. Whether Denza Philippines plans to add variants to the nameplate, only time will tell. 

At the time of writing, the first 30 customers who will buy the MPV can get the model at a discounted price of P3.998 million. 

Each purchase, whether full price or discounted, comes with the following perks: 

• 24/7 contact center support and roadside assistance 
• Eight years or 150,000 km battery warranty 
• Free chargers (alternating current wall charger and portable charger) 
• Three-year preventive maintenance service 
• Membership to Denza Club Community 

Also read:

Denza formally enters PH market, starts with 4-dealer network

Incoming Denza D9 makes Goodwood debut

BYD’s Denza to enter PH market next year

Connect with us through our various social media pages:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZigWheelsPhilippines

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zigwheelsph/

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zigwheels

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ZigWheelsPhilippines/