BYD Takes on Land Rover Defender with New B5 Plug-In Hybrid SUV
BYD is set to challenge the Land Rover Defender in the UK market with its latest offering, the B5 – a premium plug-in hybrid 4×4 boasting impressive off-road capabilities and powerful performance akin to a supercar.
Originally launched in China as the Bao 5, this Defender 110 competitor is part of BYD’s new SUV sub-brand called Fangchengbao. In the UK, it is anticipated to be branded as Denza, positioning itself as a sibling to the premium brand’s Z9 GT shooting brake, which is also bound for the UK market.
Denza, a joint venture between BYD and Mercedes-Benz that is now fully owned by BYD, was established in 2010. Both the B5 and Z9 GT will make their debut at the upcoming Goodwood Festival of Speed, with sales expected to commence in 2026.
This move confirms BYD’s strategy to introduce its Fangchengbao models in the UK, expanding its powertrain options and targeting new market segments. Stella Li, the company’s president, expressed confidence in the popularity of these SUVs in the UK, citing the country’s affinity for large premium off-road vehicles.
While specific details about the B5’s specifications have not been officially disclosed, it is likely to mirror the Chinese variant. The B5 is built on a ‘DMO Super-Hybrid Off-Road’ ladder-frame platform and is powered by a plug-in hybrid system featuring a 1.5-litre turbo engine and electric motors on each axle, delivering a remarkable 677bhp and 561lb ft of torque – surpassing even the new V8 Octa Defender.
Equipped with a substantial 31.8kWh battery that also serves as a structural component, the B5 boasts an estimated electric range of up to 78 miles on China’s CLTC cycle, although real-world figures are projected to be around 50 miles. This model is part of BYD’s initiative to expand its hybrid vehicle lineup amidst fluctuating EV adoption rates in Europe.
In addition to the B5, BYD is gearing up to introduce the Seal 06 next year, a plug-in hybrid sedan/estate model comparable to the BMW 3 Series. The Denza Z9 GT will also be available as a PHEV with an extensive combined range or as a pure-electric option.
At the Goodwood Festival, BYD will also showcase the Denza D9 MPV, a luxurious people carrier reminiscent of the Lexus LM, further highlighting the brand’s commitment to innovation and diversity in the automotive market.
