Robert Ackers
Summary
- The Denza N8L is a six-seat plug-in hybrid SUV with a 46.9 kWh battery and 751 bhp.
- Denza aims to challenge luxury SUV competitors, offering long PHEV range and high performance in the N8L.
Denza — BYD’s premium offshoot — has revealed the N8L, a six-seat plug-in hybrid SUV that pairs extreme performance with long electric range. The N8L uses a 46.9 kWh battery and three-motor hybrid system to claim 143 miles on electric power (CLTC), a combined 751 bhp and a 0–62 mph time of 3.9 seconds — plus family-friendly 2+2+2 seating and rear-wheel steering with a ‘crab-walk’ function.
The headline figures
- Battery: 46.9 kWh (underfloor)
- Claimed EV range: 143 miles (CLTC lab figure; real-world WLTP figure likely >100 miles)
- Powertrain: turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine + 3 electric motors (1 front, 2 rear)
- Combined power: 751 bhp
- 0–62 mph: 3.9 seconds
- Seating: 2+2+2 six-seat layout with reclining third row
- Special tech: rear-wheel steering ‘crab walk’, anti-motion-sickness system, possible Denza premium positioning
Powertrain and range — what the numbers mean
The N8L mixes a conventional internal-combustion engine with a potent three-motor electric system to deliver very high combined output and instant electric torque. Its 46.9 kWh battery is large for a PHEV, and the manufacturer’s 143-mile figure is from China’s CLTC test cycle — typically more optimistic than WLTP. Even so, a real-world usable electric range comfortably north of 100 miles would make the N8L one of the longest-range PHEVs available, eclipsing current leaders such as the Chery Tiggo 9 (91 miles WLTP). Fast-charge capability for the PHEV battery hasn’t been confirmed; expect country-specific specs if/when Denza announces an international launch.
Performance & dynamics
With three electric motors and 751 bhp the N8L sits in near-supercar territory for acceleration while maintaining SUV practicality. Rear-wheel steering enables tight-space manoeuvring and the “crab walk” lateral movement seen on other Denza models — useful for parking in tight bays. Denza also claims advanced stability features and a motion-control system intended to reduce motion sickness for passengers, though details of how this system works are pending.
Interior & practicality
Denza focuses on space and comfort: the 2+2+2 seat plan gives six individually accessible seats and a reclining third row for family comfort. The cabin is positioned as premium, reflecting Denza’s role within the BYD stable as its up-market brand. Expect flagship trim levels, extensive tech and luxury appointments if the N8L reaches export markets.
Pricing, markets & UK prospects
- In China the N8L is priced from the equivalent of £32,000, but a UK launch would see a significantly higher price after taxes, homologation and specification changes.
- Denza has not confirmed the N8L for the UK, but BYD execs have flagged the N9/N8 family as candidates for global markets. If launched here, the N8L would likely be positioned as a premium rival to high-end SUVs such as the Range Rover Sport — aiming to undercut on kit and value.
- Expect local spec changes, range recalibration (WLTP), and price increases compared with China if Denza confirms export timing.
Competitors & positioning
If it arrives internationally, the N8L would compete with large performance and luxury SUVs offering electrified powertrains and seven- or six-seat layouts — examples include the Range Rover Sport (PHEV and PHEV/plug-in alternatives) and other premium SUV rivals. The N8L’s combination of long PHEV electric range and 750+ bhp output sets it apart in both efficiency and outright performance.
Quick spec table
| Item | Denza N8L (headline) |
|---|---|
| Battery | 46.9 kWh |
| Claimed EV range | 143 miles (CLTC) |
| Powertrain | 2.0-litre turbo + 3 electric motors |
| Combined power | 751 bhp |
| 0–62 mph | 3.9 s |
| Seating | 6 (2+2+2) |
| Notable tech | Rear-wheel steering (crab walk), anti-motion-sickness system |
| China price (from) | Equivalent £32,000 (local) |
| UK availability | Unconfirmed — possible premium positioning if launched |
Why it matters
- PHEV range leap: a large battery in a PHEV makes genuinely electric daily driving viable for many buyers while retaining long-range flexibility.
- Performance crossover: 751 bhp in a family SUV challenges traditional luxury performance marques and reshapes expectations for electrified SUVs.
- Premium BYD play: Denza represents BYD’s push into the premium segment; the N8L signals the company’s intent to take on European luxury players with a high-value technical package.
Sign In 
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings