Denza B8 2025 Review

At the time of writing, the Denza B8 isn’t officially locked in for Australia, but it’s highly likely to head our way and has serious potential to be a market disruptor, with pricing in its domestic Chinese market suggesting it could land here somewhere between $120,000 and $140,000.

That would place it below key rivals such as the Lexus LX and the higher-grade Toyota LandCruiser 300 models, but well above the new Toyota LandCruiser Prado.

At 5195mm long, 1994mm wide, 2002mm high, and with a 2920mm wheelbase, physically it’s actually larger than a Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series, while its 3305kg kerb weight means it’s also appreciably heavier.

On paper, the Denza B8 is hugely impressive. It pairs a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with dual electric motors for a hefty combined output of 550kW and 760Nm. That’s enough to haul this beast’s bulk from 0-100km/h in just 4.8 seconds.

The 36.8-kilowatt-hour Blade battery allows for up to 100km of electric-only driving (WLTC), while total range is claimed at more than 1200km (CLTC) – though we expect that to be considerably less in the real world. Power is sent to all four wheels via an E-CVT transmission and supported by three locking differentials, air suspension and a low-speed 4x4 mode.

The suspension setup comprises a double wishbone independent system with BYD’s DiSus-P air suspension, offering 220mm of ground clearance as standard and up to 310mm when raised. Maximum approach and departure angles are 34 and 35 degrees respectively, and the B8 has a generous wading depth of up to 890mm.

There’s also a large, practical boot space accessed via a side-opening rear tailgate that not only adds a touch of old-school LandCruiser charm, it also frees up room for a larger fuel tank and battery thanks to its rear-mounted spare tyre. It’s a smart packaging solution that balances rugged utility with thoughtful design.

Equipment levels are suitably high for a vehicle of this calibre. The cabin is lavishly trimmed and fitted with ventilated, heated and massaging seats in the first and second rows. A 17.3-inch infotainment touchscreen pairs with a 12.3-inch digital cluster, a 12.3-inch screen for the front passenger, rear haptic touch panels and an optional 50-inch augmented-reality head-up display.

Further highlights include soft-close doors, powered side steps, fragrance cartridges, ambient lighting, a heated/chilled console bin, wireless charging and an 18-speaker Devialet audio system.

Safety-wise, it features Huawei’s Qiankun ADS 3.0 system, offering adaptive cruise control, automated parking and urban ‘Navigate on Autopilot’ functionality. The system is supported by an extensive sensor suite that includes 12 cameras, 12 ultrasonic radars, three millimetre-wave radars and a LiDAR unit, enabling comprehensive 360-degree awareness and Level 2 autonomous driving capability.

From the moment you climb aboard using the powered sidesteps, the B8 delivers a luxury experience that rivals the best in the class. The seats are some of the most comfortable I’ve encountered, offering multiple massage modes and exceptional support. And this level of comfort extends beyond the front row, with second- and third-row passengers also enjoying plush cushioning and thoughtful touches.

Cabin quality is first rate, with soft-touch materials used throughout, piano black trim accents, and well-executed stitching. There’s clear evidence of attention to detail, from the sliding privacy covers over cabin cameras to the logical layout of the physical controls for the diff locks, air suspension and driver-assistance systems.

The powertrain is another highlight. Performance from the petrol-electric hybrid system is immense, delivering swift acceleration and seamless transitions between EV and hybrid modes. While the vehicle’s bulk is always present, the air suspension helps it feel composed on the move and capable across rough terrain.

Interior tech is also a strong point. The interface is quick and logical, with deep menu functionality but intuitive usability. It’s particularly impressive to see how far Chinese software design has come – everything from the seat and drive mode controls to the powered third-row folding operation can be configured via the screen.

Off-road, the B8 makes a strong first impression. It’s large and hard to place over tight crests, but a high-resolution surround-view camera system helps, and the various sensors are responsive and useful. The three locking differentials and drive modes for snow, sand, mud and wading give it a robust 4x4 toolkit.

With the air suspension raised to its maximum setting, its clearance and off-road geometry only enhances its credentials in the rough stuff. While we only tested it briefly, the potential is clear.

To be honest, not a lot. While it’s loaded with comfort, capability and tech, the Denza B8’s size presents some challenges. Forward visibility is hindered by the high bonnet line, which can make precise placement difficult in off-road or tight urban environments. This is exacerbated by the plush ride and elevated seating position, which leave the driver feeling somewhat disconnected from the extremities of the vehicle.

At 3.3 tonnes it’s a lot of vehicle to take off-road; needless to say, those who do will want to explore some more aggressive off-road tyre options. And there’s no dual-range transfer case so there’s no low range, although the available torque from the electric motors and the B8’s electronic smarts largely compensate.

Meanwhile, the braked towing capacity is rated at 2500kg – the same as the Shark 6 – which could present limitations to certain buyers wanting to tow a large caravan, boat or machinery.

The electric folding side steps are a nice touch and make getting in and out of the vehicle easier, particularly for shorter types like myself. However, they could prove costly to replace if damaged while off-roading – something potential owners should keep in mind.

On the move, the B8’s suspension tune clearly favours comfort over outright control. It pitches and rolls under heavy acceleration and hard cornering which, while acceptable for a luxury SUV, may frustrate those expecting tighter dynamics. A local chassis tune would likely address this for Australian conditions – it’s our understanding that this is in the works.

If BYD confirms the B8 for local sale and nails the price point, this could become a serious contender in the large luxury SUV space. Its combination of performance, features, ride comfort and genuine off-road equipment sets it apart, and it makes a strong case as a high-tech alternative to the segment stalwarts.

What’s perhaps most surprising is just how quickly Chinese engineering has not only caught up to the industry’s best, but in some areas is now surpassing it. The build quality here is genuinely top notch – from its material fit and finish to panel alignment – and in this respect it easily stands shoulder to shoulder with the established premium brands.

Based on our short but insightful drive, the Denza B8 appears ready to shake up the market – and we’re eager to see more.

2024 Denza B8 at a glance:
Price: TBC
Available: TBC
Powertrain: 2.0-litre turbo-petrol with dual electric motors (plug-in hybrid)
Output: 550kW/760Nm (combined)
Transmission: E-CVT
Battery: 36.8kWh Blade lithium iron phosphate
Range: 100km (WLTC electric), 1200km (CLTC combined)
Energy consumption: TBC
Fuel: TBC
CO2: TBC
Safety rating: TBC

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