B8 SUV confirmed for Australia, SA launch looks promising
Chinese carmaker Denza is heading to South Africa, with the B5 already confirmed for our market. But could the B8 also make its way here?
In July, CAR Magazine reported that Denza will introduce its Toyota Land Cruiser Prado-rivalling B5 SUV to South Africa in early 2026. However, it seems another adventure SUV from this BYD sub-brand could be on the cards for our market…and it comes in the shape of the B8.
The B8 measures 5 195mm in length and 1 994mm in width, making it 215mm longer and 14mm wider than the Toyota Land Cruiser 300. However, compared to the Land Rover Defender 110, the Denza’s bodywork is 163mm shorter and 14mm narrower. The B8’s wheelbase spans 2 920mm – 70mm longer and 102mm shorter than that of the Land Cruiser 300 and Defender 110, respectively. Adopting the firm’s Disus-P hydraulic suspension setup, the B8 offers up to 310mm of ground clearance (or 220mm in its standard setting). The approach and departure angles are rated at 34 and 35 degrees, respectively.
Whereas the B5’s 505kW/760Nm plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain comprises two electric motors and a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder turbo petrol engine, the B8’s twin electric-motor PHEV setup is paired with a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo petrol unit. The B8’s PHEV arrangement produces a peak power output of 550kW, delivered to the road via all four corners. The company claims a 0-100km/h sprint time of 4.8s.
Compared to the B5, the B8’s electric motors are fed by a larger lithium-ion phosphate battery (36.8 versus 31.8kWh), which allows for a claimed electric-only operating range of 100km and a combined driving range of 1 200km.
Stepping inside, the B8’s cabin plays host to such items as 12.3-inch digital instrumentation, 17.3-inch touchscreen infotainment, and a 12.3-inch front passenger display. Wireless smartphone charging is also present. The B8 is available in six- and seven-seater configurations.
Will the Denza B8 come to SA?
The Chinese automaker has yet to confirm whether the B8 will, indeed, make its way to SA. However, considering it was unveiled as a model for Africa and the Middle East, it seems likely that the B8 could reach our shores in the future. In addition, it’s already been confirmed for a market that largely mirrors ours – Australia.
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The post 550 kW Denza B8 SUV for SA? appeared first on CAR Magazine.
