Denza Z9 GT promises a new range record

BYD's luxury brand, Denza, is preparing to launch an updated version of its high-performance shooting brake, the Z9 GT. According to the company, this sleek machine is officially a record-breaker. The MIIT filings reveal the latest Z9 GT will offer a driving range of 644 miles on a single charge - the longest range ever recorded for a mass-produced electric car in China. Of course, this number is courtesy of the Chinese (somewhat optimistic) test, but still - even at 497 miles it would be a huge achievement.

Denza plans to pull the curtain back on this new model during a major technology event on March 5, 2026. This date is a big deal for BYD, as the company plans to show off its next generation of hardware. We expect to see the new Blade Battery 2.0 and a hybrid system called DM 6.0. The event will also highlight a "Flash-Charging" network that can pump out 1,500 kW of power.

The new Z9 GT is a large, imposing vehicle. It measures 204.5 inches long, 78.3 inches wide, and 59.1 inches tall - that's roughly the same length as a Porsche Panamera. It sits on a 123 inches wheelbase, offering plenty of legroom inside for everyone. On the outside, Denza added a new "Fjord Green" paint option and fresh 21-inch wheels to make sure it stands out in a crowded parking lot.

One of the coolest updates is a small blue light on the exterior - a "smart-driving indicator." When the car is driving itself using its advanced sensors, the light turns on to let other people on the road know the computer is in control. The car uses a roof-mounted LiDAR that supports the latest "God's Eye" 5.0 system, which helps the car navigate city streets and highways.

Inside the cabin, the Z9 GT features a triple-screen setup that will make any tech lover happy. There is a massive 17.3-inch central screen for maps and media. The driver and the front passenger each get their own 13.2-inch screens as well. Denza moved the gear shifter to the steering column to open up more space in the center console. They also added a new three-spoke steering wheel that feels more modern and sporty.

The base model has a single rear motor that produces 370 kW, or about 496 horsepower. If that is not enough, the all-wheel-drive version is a real beast - it gets three motors to create a total of 850 kW, or 1,140 horsepower. That is a huge jump from the older version's 710 kW. This extra power helps the car manage the weight of its massive 122.5 kWh battery pack.

For drivers who aren't ready to go fully electric, Denza is also updating the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version. This model uses a smaller 63.82 kWh battery. It can travel about 249 miles on electricity alone before the gas engine needs to help out. That is nearly double the electric range of the previous hybrid model.

While we are still waiting for the official price of the 2026 model, the current Z9 GT starts at RMB 354,800 - that is about $51,700. Right now, these cars are mostly sold in China, but BYD has big plans to bring the Denza brand to Europe and the UK later this year. They want to compete directly with BMW and Porsche, and with a range of over 620 miles, they certainly have a strong argument to make to luxury car buyers.

Source