2025 Denza D9 launched in Malaysia - RM259k starting price for premium luxury EV MPV

BYD Malaysia has officially launched their debut model for Malaysia, the Denza D9 luxury electric MPV. This aligns perfectly with BYD’s plan to introduce its premium brand in Malaysia within the first quarter of the year. The D9 premieres with 2 variants, both equipped to the nines in luxury-oriented and tech, priced from RM259k.

• D9 FWD - RM259,000: Produces 315 PS (230 kW) and 360 Nm of torque, achieving a 0-100 km/h time of 9.5 seconds.
• D9 AWD - RM309,000: Features an additional rear motor, boosting total output to 370 PS (275 kW) and 470 Nm, reducing the 0-100 km/h sprint to just 6.9 seconds.

As a little dose of regional pricing perspective, the D9 is also currently sold in Thailand with a similar 2-variant spread that starts from 1,999,900 baht (RM264k) for the FWD variant and 2,699,900 baht (RM355k) for the AWD variant.

For those unfamiliar, the Denza D9 is a high-end electric MPV designed to rival luxury models like the Toyota Alphard and Vellfire, as well as the Zeekr 009 and incoming Xpeng X9. With dimensions of 5,250 mm in length, 1,950 mm in width, and 1,920 mm in height, the D9 is longer and taller but slightly narrower than the Zeekr.

That said, its 3,110 mm wheelbase is roughly 100 mm shorter than its Chinese competitor, though its hard to say if the will have any significant impact its interior space. In any case, both D9 and the Zeekr 009 both beat Toyota’s popular MPV twins handily in terms of size and sheer specification, not to mention price thanks to them being fully electric.

Visually, the D9 definitely stands out due to its dimensions. Up front there’s a very imposing front grille element (non-functional, of course), flanked by 18-inch wheels on Michelin e-Primacy tyres with plenty of sidewall for extra comfort. Interestingly, there is almost no distinguishing features between the two variants and there are just 3 colours available: Arctic White, Whale Sea Blue, and Cosmos Black.

In their home market in China, the Denza D9 is offered in both full-electric and plug-in hybrid variants. However, the D9 as well as other models slated to arrive in Malaysia are not likely ever going to be hybrids, as far as we can tell for the near term.

Both versions launched in Malaysia come fitted with a 103 kWh Blade lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, offering a WLTP-rated range of 600 km for the FWD model and 580 km for the AWD variant, both quoted under the NEDC test cycle.

Charging capabilities include up to 166 kW of DC fast charging and 11 kW of AC charging. The D9 is also equipped with BYD’s DiSus-C Intelligent Damping Body Control System, which includes adaptive dampers for a smoother ride.

From what was revealed during the preview in terms of D9’s equipment levels, Denza’s rather large and in-charge debut model to Malaysia should impress the Big Boss types looking for a serene and chauffeured luxury MPV, but priced in a way that should be within reach of families seeking a practical family mover; albeit a rather plush one. Highlights include:

• 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
• 15.6-inch infotainment touchscreen (non-rotatable, unlike other BYD models)
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• 14-speaker Dynaudio sound system
• Four-way power-adjustable second-row captain’s chairs with lumbar adjustment, ventilation, and massage functions
• Three 50-watt Qi wireless chargers (for first and second rows)
• Built-in 6.8-litre fridge that can be cooled or heated (-6 to 50 degrees Celcius)

The luxury continues with automatic LED headlights and taillights, 19-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, powered front and sliding doors, keyless entry, push-button start, a panoramic glass sunroof, and triple-zone climate control. Additional premium touches include real wood trim, ventilated front seats, manually adjustable third-row seats, and a powered tailgate. The list goes on….

Even so, the more expensive AWD variant offers yet even more luxury, adding front seat massage, driver’s side memory settings, Nappa leather upholstery, and even suede headlining for that cherry on top in luxury feel and tactility.

Denza claims that the D9 can comfortably accommodate 7 adults up to 180 cm tall (2 up front, 2 in the middle row, 3 in the third row) while still having room for multiple luggage bags in the boot. The MPV also boasts excellent noise insulation, with cabin noise levels kept at just 64.6 dBA when cruising at 120 km/h.