Denza X: China’s Electric Luxury SUV with Mercedes-Benz DNA
The Denza X is where German design finesse meets Chinese EV ambition—and it's doing so without whispering. Launched in 2019 and crafted in China, this AWD luxury electric SUV rolls in with enough muscle, range, and refinement to grab eyeballs on both the Autobahn and Beijing expressways. Starting at $47,000 (UK £36,660 / EU €43,710), it targets drivers who want silent thunder and high-class comfort bundled into a sleek five-door package. Born of a joint venture between BYD and Mercedes-Benz, the Denza X is more than just badge-deep beauty—it’s an electrified juggernaut with brains and brawn under the hood.
- Produced in China with German collaboration, the Denza X debuted in 2019 as a tech-packed electric SUV aimed at premium buyers.
- The original unveiling turned heads thanks to its blend of Mercedes-Benz interior design and Chinese EV tech innovation.
- With a base price of $47,000 (UK £36,660 / EU €43,710), the Denza X undercuts many European premium SUVs with similar performance.
- Positioned to rival both local Chinese EVs and imported competitors, it straddles luxury and affordability like a true segment disruptor.
Specs: Battery and Performance That Matter
Battery and Charging
Powering the Denza X is an 82.8 kWh battery that’s anything but timid. On a single full charge, the SUV pulls a respectable 520 km (323 miles)—enough for a Los Angeles-to-Vegas round trip with some range left to spare. It’s engineered for daily commuters and road trippers alike. Fast-charging support is a given, and regenerative braking stretches that final 10% just a little further when you need it.
- Battery Capacity: 82.8 kWh
- Range: 520 km (323 miles)
- Charging Type: Fast-charging capable
- Energy Recovery: Yes, via regenerative braking
Performance and Drivetrain
With dual motors driving all four wheels, the Denza X throws down a commanding 578 hp (431 kW) and a formidable 660 Nm (487 lb-ft) of torque. It blasts from 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) in just 4.6 seconds—putting it in the same acceleration bracket as a Tesla Model Y Performance. Top speed is capped at 180 km/h (112 mph), which is plenty for both the autobahn and any posted limit. Whether it’s twisty back roads or highway overtakes, the AWD traction gives it composure and grip in spades.
- Power: 578 hp (431 kW)
- Torque: 660 Nm (487 lb-ft)
- 0–100 km/h: 4.6 seconds
- Top Speed: 180 km/h (112 mph)
- Drive Type: All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Other configurations remain consistent in powertrain setup but vary slightly in interior tech and safety options, giving buyers flexibility across pricing tiers.
Exterior and Interior Features
Exterior
The Denza X wears its Mercedes-Benz-influenced lines proudly. It’s got a commanding SUV stance with coupe-like smoothness and LED lighting that highlights its contemporary edge. Aerodynamic flourishes keep wind resistance low, while the five-door layout offers family-hauler practicality with designer gloss. It’s unmistakably upscale but without the badge snobbery.
Interior
Inside, you’re greeted by soft-touch materials, a spacious cabin, and a tech suite that rivals far pricier nameplates. The premium variants come equipped with a panoramic 360° camera, blind spot monitoring, and anti-theft systems. Think plush meets precision—infotainment screens are generously sized, controls are intuitive, and seating comfort is tuned for long hauls.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
- Strong dual-motor setup with 578 hp
- Spacious range of 520 km (323 miles)
- Elegant design influenced by Mercedes-Benz
- High-end safety features like 360° camera and ESP
- Competitive pricing for premium segment
Cons
- Limited availability outside China
- No published EPA range for US market
- Interior may lack brand cachet for Western buyers
- Charging infrastructure dependent on region
Conclusion: Makes Luxury EV Driving Practical
The Denza X offers high-end electric mobility with a compelling mix of power, design, and range. With 578 hp and Mercedes-Benz design DNA, it’s a legitimate challenger in the luxury EV SUV game—and one that doesn’t break the bank at $47,000 (UK £36,660 / EU €43,710).
Exterior and Interior photos of Denza X EV
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Comparison:
Luxury electric SUVs are a crowded space these days, but the Denza X confidently holds its own against key rivals like the Tesla Model Y Long Range, BMW iX3, Ford Mustang Mach-E AWD, and NIO ES6. Each of these contenders has their merits, but Denza X's price-to-performance ratio and plush interior make it a standout worth considering.
Range Comparison
With a 520 km (323 mile) range, the Denza X leads the BMW iX3, which posts 460 km (286 mi), and the Ford Mustang Mach-E AWD with 435 km (270 mi). The Tesla Model Y Long Range still edges out most with 533 km (331 mi), while the NIO ES6 sits close at 510 km (317 mi). For practical use, the Denza X lands comfortably in the top tier.
Acceleration and Power
The Denza X sprints from 0–100 km/h in 4.6 seconds with 578 hp (431 kW), matching or exceeding rivals. Model Y clocks 4.8 sec, Mustang Mach-E AWD hits 3.8 sec with 487 hp, and the NIO ES6 comes in at 4.5 sec with 544 hp. BMW iX3 lags with 6.8 sec due to its single motor layout. Denza’s dual-motor AWD gives it a strong edge for spirited driving.
Charging and Battery System
The Denza X packs an 82.8 kWh battery and supports fast charging. Model Y includes Tesla Supercharging, NIO ES6 offers battery swap stations, and Ford and BMW support CCS fast charging. Denza holds its ground here, though lacks the proprietary networks Tesla and NIO enjoy.
Price Point Comparison
At $47,000 (UK £36,660 / EU €43,710), the Denza X is priced lower than the BMW iX3 at $52,000, Model Y at $49,900, and Mustang Mach-E AWD at $53,000. Only the NIO ES6 is similar, starting around $46,800. For buyers seeking luxury, performance, and value, the Denza X is a tough proposition to beat.
Overall Verdict
The Denza X finds a sweet spot—offering Tesla-grade range, BMW-grade comfort, and Ford-like muscle, but at a friendlier price. It may not yet have the brand prestige globally, but in terms of value-packed specs and Mercedes-backed design, it makes a compelling case for being your next all-electric SUV.
FAQ:
What is the range of the Denza X on a single charge?
The Denza X delivers a full-charge range of 520 km (323 miles), offering impressive long-distance capability for a luxury electric SUV in its class. It's ideal for daily commutes and extended road trips alike.
What is the price of the Denza X?
The Denza X is priced at $47,000, which is approximately £36,660 in the UK and €43,710 in Europe. This positions it competitively among luxury EV SUVs with similar specs.
What kind of battery does it have?
It comes equipped with an 82.8 kWh battery, enabling robust range performance and supported by fast-charging capability. Energy recuperation via regenerative braking further extends efficiency.
How fast is the EV from 0 to 100 km/h?
The Denza X accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.6 seconds. This puts it in direct competition with performance EVs like the Tesla Model Y and BMW iX3.
What’s the top speed of the car?
Top speed is rated at 180 km/h (112 mph), more than adequate for highway cruising and spirited driving alike. This is in line with most premium electric SUVs.
Does the SUV have All-Wheel Drive?
Yes, it features an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system with dual motors. This ensures optimal grip, acceleration, and stability across different road conditions.
What safety features are included?
The Denza X includes advanced systems such as a 360° camera, blind spot detection, traction control, tire pressure monitoring, and Electronic Stability Program (ESP). These features offer high-level protection and convenience.
Is the Denza X available outside China?
While currently focused on the Chinese market, international expansion may follow pending demand and regulatory approvals. Import availability can vary by country.
Who developed the Denza X?
The Denza X is the result of a partnership between BYD and Mercedes-Benz. It combines German design and engineering principles with Chinese EV manufacturing expertise.
What kind of drive experience does the SUV offer?
It provides a quiet, smooth, and responsive drive with strong acceleration and luxury-level cabin comfort. Ideal for urban travel and highway performance.
