The Denza B5 is an all-new mid-size plug-in hybrid SUV confirmed for launch in the UK market. It is developed under the Denza brand, which operates within the BYD Group. In its home market, the model is sold under BYD’s Fang Cheng Bao sub-brand as the Leopard 5.
We recently spent time with a global-spec B5 to assess its suitability for the UK market ahead of its launch, and this is our assessment.
Design
The Denza B5 uses a five-door SUV body style with a squared-off profile and upright proportions. At the front, it features a vertical fascia with a wide grille and horizontal LED headlamps, accented by illuminated highlights at the top and bottom, connected by a styling trim integrated into the grille.
From the side, the B5 presents a boxy silhouette with a high beltline, squared wheel arches, and a U-shaped crease giving it a robust presence. Large, upright side windows, squared door mirrors and pronounced wheel arch flares contribute to its rugged character.
At the rear, the B5 gets vertically oriented LED tail-lamps, a centrally mounted tailgate spare wheel, steeply angled rear glass and a robust bumper with silver styling elements.
In its home market, the B5 is offered in two trim levels. The base version rides on 18-inch alloy wheels, while the higher-spec variant features 20-inch wheels. Exterior colour options in China include beige, green, blue, grey and black.
Interior
The cabin of the Denza B5 features a two-row layout with seating for five occupants. The base trim uses PU leather upholstery, while higher trims receive premium leather finishes. The interior colour palette in international markets, consistent across China, the GCC and South Africa, includes beige, blue and green themes.
In the highest specification, the dashboard adopts a triple-screen layout, comprising a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster for the driver, a centrally mounted 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment display, and a 12.3-inch auxiliary screen for the front passenger.
Wireless phone charging, multiple USB-C ports for both rows, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are the top features. Higher specifications in some markets add power-adjustable front seats, heating and ventilation for the front seats, and heated rear seats.
Storage solutions include a centre console compartment and a generous 470 litre boot area behind the second row. Rear passengers also benefit from a unique under-vent beverage cooler positioned beneath the rear air-conditioning vents. A panoramic sunroof is also available.
Experience in the Denza B5
As a six-footer, getting into the Denza B5 takes a bit more effort because the frame SUV sits high, but the side step and the grab handles help. The doors close with a heavy thud and feel solid.
Once I’m seated, I notice a head-up display with clear fonts and good colour contrast. The readouts are easy to grasp and feel practical rather than decorative.
In the front seat, the cabin does not feel especially wide, and the seat feels slightly narrow for my frame. Shoulder support feels adequate, while under-thigh support is very good. Headroom and back support feel very good.
The door armrest and centre armrest both offer good support, and the centre armrest includes a small storage compartment. The steering wheel feels grippy and has many buttons, including drive-related controls.
There are dedicated buttons for EV/HEV operation and low-range, along with a start/stop button. A volume knob is present. The front defroster and AC on/off functions are also in button form, which is a practical design.
Drive modes such as sand and mud appear within the screen menus in demo mode. HVAC operation sits within the touchscreen, and I find that less convenient than physical climate buttons even though the graphics and layout look clear.
In the rear with the front seat set for my height, knee room is generous and headroom remains strong. The rear seatbacks do not recline, but the seating position feels more relaxed than upright. Under-thigh support is only average, and the small thigh extenders do not add much to the experience for my height.
The floor is flat, but the cabin width makes three-abreast seating better suited to two adults plus a child. Rear passengers get air vents, a panoramic sunroof that brings in light, and roof-mounted vents that help spread airflow. Seat heating is present, and seat ventilation and fan speed are touch-operated.
Specifications
The Denza B5 is powered by a plug-in hybrid system based on BYD’s Dual Mode Off-Road platform. This combines a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with two electric motors, one mounted on each axle, providing permanent all-wheel drive.
Total system output is rated at approximately 536 hp (400 kW), with combined torque quoted at 760 Nm. The petrol engine supports both propulsion and battery charging during hybrid operation.
Energy storage is provided by BYD’s lithium iron phosphate Blade Battery, with a capacity of approximately 31.8 kWh. The WLTC-rated electric-only range is up to 90 km (56 miles). Performance figures include a claimed 0-62 mph time of around 4.8 seconds, while top speed is listed at 112 mph.
DC fast-charging capability is rated at up to 100 kW in certain markets, such as Australia, while AC charging is supported at up to 11 kW.
Official charging times have not been published in manufacturer documentation; however, unofficial sources suggest a 25-80% DC fast charge (at 50 kW) takes 24 minutes, while a 25-100% charge using an 11 kW AC charger takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Price & Release Date
Also See: First Look Review: UK-bound Denza D9 has all the luxury MPV qualities
The Denza B5 is currently offered in select international markets. Pricing in China starts at 269,800 yuan (approximately GBP 28,550) for the base trim. In Australia, pricing begins at the equivalent of around GBP 38,000 before on-road costs. UK pricing and final specifications are yet to be confirmed.
