The Denza Z9 GT: A New Era for Chinese Electric Wagons

China is at the forefront of the electric vehicle (EV) revolution, and one segment gaining significant traction is the electric wagon. With more manufacturers producing sleek, electrified long-roof models, competition is heating up. Today, we’re diving into a new contender for the crown—the Denza Z9 GT. If you’re ready for some excitement, brace yourself, because this car has the potential to shake up the landscape of Chinese electric wagons.

The Rise of Denza

For those unfamiliar with Denza, it is a premium electric brand under BYD (Build Your Dreams), the largest producer of EVs and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) in China. As the electric wagon era evolves, Denza aims to lead the charge with their newest and most advanced model to date—the Z9 GT.

Exterior Design: Sleek Yet Bold

The Z9 GT’s exterior design has sparked mixed reactions, particularly when it comes to its bold rear-end design. However, one thing is certain: this is the best-looking vehicle Denza has produced so far. Despite the polarizing opinions, the Z9 GT exudes confidence with its sleek lines and unmistakable presence on the road.

Performance Powerhouse: E3 Motor System

What truly sets the Denza Z9 GT apart isn’t just its looks—it’s the cutting-edge technology under the hood. The Z9 GT is powered by BYD’s new E3 motor system, which utilizes three electric motors—two at the rear and one at the front. It’s available in both PHEV and pure EV versions.

Key Performance Specs:

• Pure EV version delivers an impressive 640 kW (about 850 horsepower).
• PHEV version cranks out 710 kW (around 960 horsepower).

The EV’s 0-100 km/h acceleration clocks in at a staggering 3.4 seconds, with the PHEV variant not far behind at 3.6 seconds.

Key Features and Innovations

LFP Blade Battery

Both the pure electric and PHEV versions of the Z9 GT are equipped with BYD’s LFP blade batteries, renowned for their efficiency and safety. The pure electric version boasts a 630 km range on China’s CLTC cycle, thanks to a 100 kWh battery. As for the PHEV, while its battery specs haven’t been fully disclosed yet, it combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with the electric motor for a total range of 1,100 km.

Rear Steering and Precision Handling

In terms of maneuverability, the Denza Z9 GT features 10° of rear steer, similar to the Mercedes-Benz EQS. This advanced rear steer system helps give the Z9 GT an unexpectedly nimble feel, despite its larger body size. The car’s turning radius is smaller than that of a Mini Cooper, making it particularly agile in tight urban environments and parking garages.

Compass Turn

The Z9 GT also introduces a unique feature called Compass Turn, which is different from the Tank Turn seen in vehicles like the Yangwang U8. Instead of turning all four wheels in different directions, the front wheel locks while the three remaining wheels spin in opposing directions, enabling the car to pivot. This feature, while primarily useful in urban settings, could raise concerns about potential tire wear due to its heavy reliance on wheel friction.

Tech-Heavy Interior

Step inside the Z9 GT, and you’re greeted by an opulent, tech-forward interior that is bound to impress.

Three-Screen Configuration

The dashboard features a three-screen layout:

• 10.25-inch instrument cluster
• 17.3-inch central screen
• 10.25-inch passenger screen

Although Denza hasn’t officially revealed the exact sizes, these are based on their previous model, the Denza N7. While the UI/UX design may not be the most cutting-edge compared to competitors, it gets the job done. Additionally, the Z9 GT comes equipped with optional camera-based exterior mirrors, which add small screens to each end of the dashboard for enhanced visibility.

Electrically Operated Doors and Zero Gravity Seats

The Z9 GT brings a sense of occasion with its electrically operated doors, giving the car a touch of futuristic flair. The zero gravity passenger seat, along with the driver’s seat, is heated, cooled, and massaging, promising top-tier comfort. The second-row seats are equally luxurious, with adjustable leg rests and backrests, as well as individual seat heating, cooling, and massaging functions.

Fridges and Sound System

Another standout feature is the integrated fridge in both the front and rear center consoles. The front fridge is a compact 4-liter unit, while the rear one offers a larger 10-liter capacity, perfect for keeping your refreshments cool.

To top it off, the Z9 GT features a DV sound system with metal speaker grills, offering an immersive audio experience, although exact specs have not been disclosed.

Driving Experience and Air Suspension

The Z9 GT employs a Desus A air suspension system, which allows for adjustable ride height and stiffness. This system is a marked improvement over earlier Denza models, delivering a smoother ride with better vibration control. Although BYD’s first attempt at air suspension left much to be desired in the Denza N7, the Z9 GT shows significant progress.

In terms of overall driving feel, the Z9 GT is surprisingly agile for a car of its size, thanks in large part to its rear steer system. At higher speeds, the car feels stable and planted, while at lower speeds, its maneuverability is impressive. However, the high seating position may feel more akin to an SUV than a sporty GT wagon.

Pricing and Value

One of the most attractive aspects of the Denza Z9 GT is its competitive pricing. The pure electric model comes in three versions: Pro (entry-level), Max (mid-spec), and Ultra (high-spec). Meanwhile, the PHEV is available in two trims: Max and Ultra.

Estimated Pricing:

• Max (mid-spec EV): around $47,000 USD
• Ultra (PHEV): approximately $59,000 USD

For an electric GT wagon with nearly 1,000 horsepower, these prices make the Z9 GT a compelling option in the premium EV market.

Here’s the table for the information covered in the article about the Denza Z9 GT:

FAQs

1. What is the range of the Denza Z9 GT’s pure electric version?

The pure electric version of the Denza Z9 GT offers a 630 km range on China’s CLTC cycle, thanks to its 100 kWh LFP blade battery.

2. How fast can the Z9 GT accelerate?

The pure electric version of the Z9 GT can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds, while the PHEV version achieves the same in 3.6 seconds.

3. What is Compass Turn, and how does it work?

Compass Turn is a feature where the front wheel locks, and the other three wheels pivot, allowing the car to turn in a tight circle. This is useful in tight urban environments but could lead to increased tire wear.

4. Does the Denza Z9 GT have air suspension?

Yes, the Z9 GT features Desus A air suspension, which allows for adjustable ride height and improved ride quality.

5. Are the rear seats of the Z9 GT also heated and cooled?

Yes, the second-row seats in the Z9 GT are heated, cooled, and massaging, adding to the car’s luxury appeal.

6. How much does the Denza Z9 GT cost?

The pricing for the Denza Z9 GT starts at around $47,000 for the mid-spec EV and goes up to $59,000 for the PHEV Ultra version.

7. What makes the Z9 GT stand out in the electric wagon market?

The Denza Z9 GT stands out for its powerful performance, rear steer system, innovative features, and competitive pricing, making it a strong contender in the Chinese EV market.

The Denza Z9 GT marks a significant step forward in China’s EV landscape. With its combination of power, technology, and luxury, this electric wagon is bound to turn heads—both on the road and in the showroom. While it may not yet be the absolute “king” of Chinese electric wagons, it’s certainly staking its claim in this rapidly growing market.