Denza’s Z9GT has made its Australian debut at the Melbourne Motor Show, offering a first look at a high-end electric grand tourer set to arrive locally in the near future. Backed by BYD, the premium-focused brand is aiming to compete with established European players, and the Z9GT represents a clear statement of intent.

Unlike many new entrants targeting the SUV market, Denza has opted for a more niche approach with a large, low-slung shooting brake. At more than five metres long, it’s a sizeable vehicle, but one that leans heavily into comfort and technology rather than outright sportiness.

The all-electric version is expected to headline the range, powered by a tri-motor setup producing a truly impressive 850kW and 1210Nm. Acceleration is rapid – 0–100km/h takes just 2.7 seconds – but the Z9GT’s character is defined less by its speed and more by its refinement.

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From the driver’s seat, the experience is calm and composed. Low-speed manoeuvrability is surprisingly manageable for a car of this size, thanks to rear-wheel steering that significantly tightens the turning circle. There are also more unusual features, including pivot turning and a crab-walk function, which allow the car to move in ways that would typically be impossible in a vehicle of this scale.

On the move, the Z9GT feels more like a traditional grand tourer than a sports car. Air suspension and a range of adjustable drive modes prioritise ride comfort, and while the chassis works hard to mask its considerable mass, the focus remains on smooth, steady progress. Even in its more aggressive settings, the car doesn’t encourage spirited driving in the way some rivals do.

That said, straight-line performance is undeniable. Selecting a sportier mode unleashes the full output, delivering intense acceleration typical of high-performance EVs. However, the sensation is familiar rather than unique in this segment.

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Inside, the Z9GT makes a stronger impression. The cabin is spacious and finished with high-quality materials, including leather and wood trims, while rear-seat accommodation stands out thanks to the long wheelbase. Features such as massaging seats, a built-in refrigerator and multiple digital displays reinforce its luxury positioning.

With a large battery expected to deliver a driving range of up to around 600km, the Z9GT combines long-distance capability with rapid charging potential. A less powerful single-motor variant is also expected to follow, offering greater efficiency and a lower entry point.

As Denza prepares for its Australian launch, the Z9GT highlights the brand’s ambition to blend performance, comfort and advanced technology in a segment traditionally dominated by established luxury marques.

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