The new Denza Z arrives as China’s answer to high‑performance electric coupes, promising 1,582 bhp and a price of £142,900 for the base Coupe model.
Specs and performance claims
The Z is built on Denza’s own electric sports‑car platform and is offered in three trims: Coupe (£142,900), Spider (£159,900) and a track‑focused Racing version (£172,900). At 4,780 mm long, the car sits between the Porsche 911 and the Mercedes‑AMG GT in size, with a rear design that recalls Bentley’s more muscular silhouettes.
Under the floor sits a 76 kWh battery pack that powers three permanent‑magnet motors—one at the front delivering 671 bhp and two rear units each rated at 456 bhp. Combined output reaches 1,582 bhp and 915 lb‑ft of torque, translating to a 0‑62 mph sprint in 2.25 seconds and a top speed of 186 mph. The optional semi‑slick tyres on the Racing spec shave the sprint to 1.96 seconds and raise the top speed to 217 mph, edging out the Porsche 911 Turbo S despite the Z’s lower starting price.
All three models feature BYD’s Flash Charging capability, allowing a charge from 10 % to 97 % in around nine minutes when connected to a compatible fast charger. Range varies from 236 miles on the Racing version to 254 miles on the Coupe.
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Chassis, handling and driver aids
The Z employs a double‑wishbone front suspension and a multi‑link rear setup, with adaptive dampers as standard. Carbon‑ceramic brakes are fitted across the range, while the Coupe and Spider use air suspension; the Racing version opts for stiffer coil springs. Torque vectoring lets each rear motor distribute power independently, helping the car stabilize after a tyre blowout and enabling a “compass turn,” where the vehicle pivots around its front wheels.
Inside, the cabin sits relatively high because the battery occupies the floor, so drivers often reach for the seat‑height adjuster after entering. A digital instrument cluster is paired with a 12.8‑inch central touchscreen. Fit and finish resemble a Lotus Emira more than a traditional luxury sedan, though visibility benefits from the higher seating position.
The rear seats are cramped and effectively suited only for children or small passengers.
Pricing and market positioning
At £142,900, the base Coupe undercuts the Porsche 911 Carrera GTS while offering higher straight‑line performance. The Spider and Racing variants add cost but also add features like a carbon‑fibre splitter, adjustable rear wing, and, for the Racing model, a front air intake.
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A forthcoming Special Edition promises over 2,000 bhp, a 0‑62 mph time of 1.7 seconds, and downforce exceeding 2,000 kg at 186 mph, positioning it as a true track‑only contender.
Demand for high‑end electric sports cars is currently muted, and many manufacturers have scaled back EV‑only projects.
Overall, the Denza Z demonstrates that Chinese manufacturers are ready to compete in the high‑performance electric segment. The hardware is impressive, but the driving experience still needs refinement before it can match the intuitive feel of Europe’s top sports cars.
