Denza Z9S revealed: A new Denza flagship fastback sedan that could follow the Z9GT to Malaysia

With Denza, the premium luxury marque under BYD, having recently launched its flagship Z9GT shooting brake in Malaysia (priced from RM 358,800), the brand continues to expand its presence in the global premium EV market. Meanwhile, in China, Denza has taken the wraps off another flagship model in its growing line-up — the all-new Denza Z9S.

Dimensions and exterior design

According to information released by China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) and Denza, the Denza Z9S adopts a distinctive fastback sedan silhouette. It measures 5,090 mm in length, 1,980 mm in width and 1,490 mm in height, with a 3,025 mm wheelbase.

Refined proportions with a more elegant stance: Compared with the Z9GT shooting brake that recently arrived in Malaysia, the Z9S is 145 mm shorter overall and has a 100 mm shorter wheelbase. However, its sleek three-box fastback profile gives it a longer, more composed side profile, appealing to buyers who prefer the understated elegance of a traditional executive saloon.

Split headlights and ADAS hardware: The front fascia features double star-shaped split headlights, with the main light clusters neatly integrated into the sides of the front bumper. A roof-mounted LiDAR sensor comes as standard, powering BYD's latest DiPilot 300 (known as "God's Eye") advanced driver assistance system (ADAS).

Practicality-focused design tweaks: To comply with Chinese regulations and improve everyday usability, the Z9S drops the complex, fully flush pop-out door handles in favour of a more practical semi-recessed design.

Interior updates: The Z9S retains physical buttons

Unlike the ultra-minimalist, tech-heavy cabin of the Z9GT, the Z9S introduces an interior update that drivers will appreciate—the return of physical buttons.

Redesigned dashboard and steering wheel: The cabin features a new three-spoke steering wheel, while the fully digital instrument cluster is neatly integrated into the dashboard. A full-width piano black trim panel stretches across the cabin, complemented by a large floating central touchscreen that serves as the focal point of the interior.

Tactile buttons for easy blind-operation: Along the centre console, the Z9S thoughtfully retains an array of physical buttons. This allows the driver to easily operate key functions without looking, such as Automatic Parking, the e³ tri-motor drive system, and the DiSus intelligent body control system, striking a balance between modern tech and driving safety. 

Premium executive features: The rear centre armrest houses a dedicated control screen, and the prominent "Flash Charging" badge on the tailgate highlights its flagship EV status.

Powertrain and range

Regulatory filings from China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology reveal that the Denza Z9S packs impressive hardware, offering both single-motor RWD and tri-motor AWD configurations:

Single-motor RWD variant (MIIT filing): 

Available in two outputs: 320 kW (approx. 429 hp / 435 PS) and 370 kW (approx. 496 hp / 503 PS).

Both variants are equipped with a 102.326 kWh Blade battery pack. 

The high-output variant boasts a CLTC-rated range of up to 920 km.

e³ tri-motor AWD flagship variant:

Delivers a combined output of 890 kW (an astonishing 1,194 hp). 

Shares the same 102.326 kWh battery pack, offering a CLTC range of 780 km. 

Flash Charging technology: 

Utilises a second-generation Blade battery and a high-voltage fast-charging platform to significantly cut down charging times.

Malaysia prospects

Following the Malaysian debut of the Denza Z9GT at RM 358,800, the premium EV brand has begun to establish itself among buyers looking beyond traditional luxury marques.

For Malaysian customers, the arrival of the Z9GT is likely just the beginning. As Denza continues its global expansion, flagship models such as the Z9S—combining high performance with the presence and refinement expected of an executive car—could eventually broaden the brand's premium EV portfolio in Malaysia.