BYD Unveils 2026 Denza N9: A Premium Plug-In Hybrid SUV Starting at $54,200

EV editor focused on charging, batteries and ownership costs. Drives a Kia EV6 GT and does tough winter range tests.
In a significant move within the electric vehicle market, BYD has officially launched the 2026 Denza N9, a luxury plug-in hybrid SUV. Announced on September 17, 2025, the vehicle debuts under BYD's high-end brand, Denza, and offers an appealing combination of advanced technology and upscale features at a starting price of $54,200.
The Denza N9 stands out in the competitive SUV market with its striking design and advanced features. Measuring an impressive 5.26 meters in length, the vehicle is available in multiple configurations, priced from 389,800 to 449,800 yuan (approximately $54,200 to $62,500). A hallmark of its design is the elegant two-tone body, available in green-silver and purple-gold, which exudes a sense of sophistication and modernity.
Under the hood, the Denza N9 is powered by a robust plug-in hybrid system. It combines a 2.0T turbocharged engine with three electric motors, delivering a formidable 912 horsepower. This powertrain enables the SUV to achieve impressive acceleration, going from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds. The vehicle also boasts a remarkable 202 km pure electric range and a 1302 km combined range, highlighting its efficiency and long-distance capabilities.
Inside, the Denza N9 is designed for comfort and luxury. It features a new 'Golden Mountain Brown' interior color scheme, complemented by a suite of high-tech amenities. The cabin is equipped with a 13.2-inch LCD instrument panel, a 17.3-inch central control screen, and a 13.2-inch front passenger screen, all delivering crisp 2.5K resolution visuals. Additional highlights include a 50-inch AR-HUD display and a 26-speaker Devialet sound system, ensuring a premium audio-visual experience.
The Denza N9's seating configuration is another standout feature, offering a 2+2+2 layout with luxurious touches such as a zero-gravity 'queen seat' for the front passenger. Both front and second-row seats provide heating, ventilation, and massage functions, adding to the vehicle's comfort. The second row also includes dual small table boards and a ceiling-mounted screen, enhancing convenience and entertainment for passengers.
Safety and driver assistance are key priorities for the Denza N9. It incorporates the 'God’s Eye B' system for end-to-end mapless urban navigation assistance. The system features cutting-edge hardware, including one LiDAR, five millimeter-wave radars, 12 cameras, and 12 ultrasonic radars, powered by Nvidia’s Orin X chip with 254 TOPS of processing power. This ensures robust safety and navigation support for the driver.
The introduction of the Denza N9 represents BYD's strategic push to capture the luxury segment of the plug-in hybrid market. With its blend of performance, luxury, and technology, the N9 is poised to attract consumers looking for premium yet sustainable vehicle options. As the global automotive industry continues to pivot towards electrification, models like the Denza N9 underscore the increasing viability and appeal of hybrid vehicles in a market dominated by traditional combustion engines.

About Elena Park
EV editor focused on charging, batteries and ownership costs. Drives a Kia EV6 GT and does tough winter range tests.