Denza, the premium marque under BYD, has officially revealed the exterior of its latest flagship SUV, the N8L. Following the N9, the N8L is built on the e3 platform and will soon enter the Chinese market as a large plug-in hybrid SUV. The model recently appeared on the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology’s vehicle registration list, indicating its imminent launch.
Positioned as a luxurious six-seater, the N8L is expected to be priced between 350,000 and 400,000 yuan (around RM204,579 and RM233,804 ). Denza has adopted a design language similar to that of the N9, with distinct updates to further set the N8L apart.
At the front, the SUV features horizontally aligned daytime running lights and vertically arranged headlamps, a signature look shared with the N9. However, the N8L distinguishes itself with a trapezoidal air intake and active grille shutters, offering improved aerodynamics and a more aggressive visual identity.
Along the sides, the N8L’s profile is defined by a seamless waistline, flush-mounted door handles, and side-view cameras integrated into the front fenders. The floating roof illusion is achieved through blacked-out B, C, and D pillars. At the rear, design elements echo the N9, but with revisions such as a repositioned number plate on the bumper for a cleaner rear fascia.
An innovative highlight of the N8L is the availability of a drone-equipped version. Vehicles with the optional BYD intelligent vehicle-mounted drone system are 1,990mm tall and come with a roof-mounted platform designed for seamless drone operations. The system is compatible with popular consumer drones, including those from DJI, allowing users to launch and land drones directly from the vehicle.
Although Denza has not yet revealed interior images, the N8L is confirmed to offer a six-seat configuration, with second-row captain chairs featuring power leg rests, ventilation, heating, and likely folding tables. Drawing cues from the N9, it is expected to include a 15.6-inch infotainment display and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. High-end features such as an onboard refrigerator and rear entertainment systems may also be available.
For intelligent driving, the N8L will incorporate the “God’s Eye B” system—formally known as DiPilot 300. This advanced driver assistance suite includes city and highway navigation support powered by roof-mounted LiDAR. Interior technology is expected to include a head-up display and multiple screens for rear passengers. The voice control system offers four-zone interaction, allowing accurate command recognition from each seating position.
Powering the N8L is a sophisticated plug-in hybrid setup comprising a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine alongside three electric motors. One in the front, two at the rear, with a total system output of 560kW (751 hp). With this configuration, the SUV is expected to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in under three seconds, with a top speed of 220km/h.
The hybrid system is paired with a 46.99 kWh battery pack, offering a pure electric driving range of 170km under WLTC standards, or 160km for the drone-equipped version. With both fuel and battery fully replenished, the total range exceeds 1,000km. The N8L supports both fast and slow charging, and a rapid charge from 20% to 80% takes just 30 minutes.
Underpinning the N8L is the DiSus-A active suspension system, which supports rear-wheel steering and features such as intelligent crab walking and e3 platform-assisted parking. These features significantly enhance manoeuvrability, enabling the 5.2-metre SUV to handle with the ease of a compact car.
Measuring 5,200mm in length, 1,999mm in width, and 1,820mm in height with a wheelbase of 3,075mm, the N8L is bigger compared to a GWM Tank 500.
As Denza continues to expand its luxury lineup, the N8L emerges as a formidable offering, combining advanced hybrid performance, innovative technology, and class-leading comfort. Its arrival could redefine expectations in the premium six-seater SUV market.
