The 2025 Denza B5 is shaking up Australia’s off-road SUV market. Known as the Fangchengbao Bao 5 in China, this plug-in hybrid (PHEV) delivers 505 kW, a 125 km electric range, and a sub-$50,000 starting price. CarExpert’s Jacob called it “outrageously powerful” after a 2.38-second 0–60 km/h sprint in China. But with soft suspension and unproven off-road tech, can it topple the Toyota Prado? In this review, we explore the Denza B5’s strengths and flaws. Read on to decide if it’s worth waiting for its late-2025 Australian launch.
Overview: What Is the 2025 Denza B5?
The Denza B5 is a mid-to-large, five-seat, four-wheel-drive SUV from BYD’s premium Denza brand. Built on the DMO (Dual Mode Off-Road) platform, it shares underpinnings with the BYD Shark 6 ute. Its PHEV powertrain combines a 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine with dual electric motors, offering 505 kW and 760 Nm. With a boxy design, Huawei ADAS, and luxury features, it’s a bold rival to the Prado, Ford Everest, and Lexus GX.
- Price (Estimated): $45,000–$60,000 in Australia (240,000–302,800 RMB in China).
- Launch: Expected Q4 2025.
- Key Rivals: Toyota Prado, Ford Everest, GWM Tank 500, Land Rover Defender.
- Standout Features: 505 kW power, Leopard turn tech, hydraulic suspension.
Performance: Power Meets Body Roll
The Denza B5’s PHEV system is a beast, delivering 505 kW and 760 Nm—far surpassing rivals. Its 1.5-liter turbo engine (135 kW) and dual electric motors (485 kW) achieve 0–100 km/h in a claimed 4.8 seconds. CarExpert’s test hit 0–60 km/h in 2.38 seconds, with Jacob noting the front end “almost lifted off the ground.” A 31.8 kWh Blade battery offers a 125 km electric range (CLTC, ~80 km real-world) and 1200 km total range with an 85-liter tank.
- Pros:
- Explosive power for a 2.9-ton SUV.
- 80 km EV range cuts fuel costs.
- 100 kW fast DC charging for quick top-ups.
- Cons:
- “Insane” body roll in corners, per CarExpert.
- Soft suspension feels “squidgy” on-road.
- Fuel economy (7.8 L/100 km) may climb in hybrid mode.
The B5’s power is thrilling, but its soft suspension and body roll need refinement for Australian roads, as Jacob noted: “This car hasn’t been flat this entire drive.”
Off-Road Capability: Impressive on Paper
The Denza B5 is built for off-roading, with a ladder-frame chassis, 290 mm ground clearance, and Cloud-P hydraulic suspension. It features front/rear electronic “diff locks” (torque vectoring), Leopard turn tech (3.4-meter radius on loose surfaces), and a 700 mm wading depth. Off-road angles (35° approach, 20° breakover, 32° departure) rival the Prado. However, CarExpert questioned its mechanical credentials, as the “diff locks” are electronic, not true locking differentials.
- Key Off-Road Specs:
- Ground Clearance: 290 mm (fixed).
- Wading Depth: 700 mm.
- Off-Road Angles: 35°/20°/32° (approach/breakover/departure).
- Why It Stands Out:
- Leopard turn enhances tight maneuvers.
- Instant electric torque mimics low-range gearing.
- Limitations:
- Electronic “diff locks” may disappoint hardcore off-roaders.
- No mechanical low-range transfer case.
On a mild Chinese course, the B5 performed well, but Jacob noted it’s “not a mechanical system” like a Prado’s, limiting extreme off-road potential.
Design: Boxy and Bold
The Denza B5’s boxy, Defender-inspired design turns heads. Its sharp LED headlights, rugged grille, and black plastic cladding scream off-road readiness. At 4890 mm long, 1970 mm wide, and 1920 mm tall, it’s slightly shorter than a Prado but equally imposing. Standard 18-inch alloys with Goodrich tires (criticized as “shitty” by CarExpert) may be upgraded in Australia for better off-road grip.
- Exterior Highlights:
- Wraparound LED daytime running lights.
- Recovery points and tow hitch included.
- Side steps and privacy glass for style.
- Drawbacks:
- High bonnet may obscure urban visibility.
- Current tires detract from off-road capability.
Jacob praised its “menacing” look but warned the plastic bumper could snag off-road. Australian models may feature Denza badges over Fangchengbao logos.
Interior: Premium but Quirky
The Denza B5’s cabin blends luxury with tech, featuring Nappa leather, Alcantara, and heated/ventilated/massaging seats. A 15.6-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch driver display, and passenger screen offer wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and Huawei ADAS 3.0. Quirky touches include a fragrance capsule, karaoke mic, and crystal start button. However, Jacob noted only one wireless charger and tiny rear air vents as downsides.
- Interior Pros:
- Premium materials rival Lexus GX.
- Spacious, comfy seats with ample legroom.
- Tech-heavy: 360° camera, off-road modes, triple screens.
- Interior Cons:
- No seven-seat option limits family appeal.
- Single wireless charger for a $60,000 SUV.
CarExpert called the interior “10% more premium” than a GWM Tank 500, with “fantastic” seats but a “way too big” steering wheel. Cargo space is ~500 liters, competitive but unconfirmed.
Safety: Untested but Promising
The Denza B5 hasn’t been ANCAP-tested, but its BYD Shark 6 platform is expected to earn five stars. It includes 11 airbags, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot assist, adaptive cruise control, and matrix LED headlights. Huawei’s ADAS 3.0 adds lane-keeping and lever-activated lane changes. The high bonnet may pose pedestrian risks in cities.
- Safety Highlights:
- Robust active/passive safety suite.
- Likely five-star potential.
- Concerns:
- Untested ANCAP rating may worry buyers.
- Bonnet height could obscure pedestrians.
Australian models may include standard diff locks for off-road safety, per carsales.com.au.
Value and Pricing: Bargain or Risk?
Estimated at $45,000–$60,000 in Australia, the Denza B5 undercuts the Prado Kakadu ($99,990) and Ford Everest Platinum ($81,115). Its Chinese price (240,000–302,800 RMB) translates to exceptional value for 505 kW and premium tech. A six-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty and eight-year/160,000 km battery warranty align with BYD standards. However, Denza’s unproven luxury reputation and potential resale value concerns may deter buyers.
- Value Pros:
- Unmatched power and tech for the price.
- Long EV range boosts efficiency.
- Value Cons:
- Brand unfamiliarity in Australia.
- Resale value untested vs. Toyota.
Jacob called it “wild” value at $45,000, but questioned off-road credentials compared to a Prado.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy 2025 Denza B5
Top 5 Reasons to Avoid the 2025 Denza B5
Comparison Table: Denza B5 vs. Rivals
| Model | Price (Est.) | Power | EV Range | Key Strength | Key Weakness |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Denza B5 | $45,000–$60,000 | 505 kW | 125 km | Power, value | Soft suspension, unproven |
| Toyota Prado Kakadu | $99,990 | 150 kW | N/A | Reliability, resale | Less power, no EV |
| Ford Everest Platinum | $81,115 | 154 kW | N/A | Refinement, towing | No hybrid, higher price |
| GWM Tank 500 Hybrid | $66,490 | 255 kW | 110 km | Affordability, hybrid | Less premium interior |
The Denza B5’s power and price outshine rivals, but reliability concerns linger.
2025 Denza B5 vs. Toyota Prado
Verdict: A Bold Contender with Caveats
The 2025 Denza B5 is a powerhouse with 505 kW, a 125 km EV range, and a sub-$60,000 price tag. Its premium interior, bold design, and off-road tech like Leopard turn make it a Prado rival. However, “insane” body roll, electronic “diff locks,” and Denza’s unproven status raise doubts, as CarExpert noted: “Not convinced the off-roading is as good as a Prado.” Test-drive it in late 2025 to assess its suspension and off-road ability.
- Who It’s For: Tech-savvy buyers craving power and value.
- Who Should Wait: Off-road purists or those valuing resale reliability.
The Denza B5 is tempting, but suspension tweaks and brand trust will decide its fate.
About the Author
CarSauce is an automotive journalist with 12 years of experience. He’s tested SUVs, hybrids, and supercars across global markets, including China’s EV scene. His reviews, featured in top car magazines, offer honest insights for buyers. Off-road, John tackles trails and restores vintage 4x4s.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Estimated at $45,000–$60,000, launching Q4 2025, per CarExpert.
Its PHEV system delivers 505 kW and 760 Nm, hitting 0–60 km/h in 2.38 seconds.
Claimed 125 km (CLTC), ~80 km real-world, with 1200 km total range.
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