The Denza Bao 5: A Chinese SUV with a Twist
The automotive world is buzzing with the arrival of the Denza Bao 5, a new player in the premium SUV market. At first glance, it might remind you of a Land Rover or a Toyota Land Cruiser, but this Chinese-made vehicle is a breed of its own.
A BYD in Disguise
Denza, the premium arm of Chinese megacorp BYD, is making waves with its upcoming UK launch. The Denza Bao 5, previously known as the Fangchengbao Bao 5 in China, is set to hit British roads alongside the D9 MPV and Z supercar later this year. But is it just another SUV?
Hybrid Powerhouse
Under the hood, the Bao 5 is a plug-in hybrid with a twist. It boasts a 31.8kWh battery and two electric motors, providing an all-electric range of 56 miles. But the real surprise is the 1.5-liter turbo engine, which primarily charges the battery, resulting in a combined range of 537 miles. This innovative setup delivers a whopping 537bhp and 561lb ft of torque, making it a powerful contender in its class.
On-Road Performance
I had the chance to take the Bao 5 for a spin, albeit briefly, and here's my take. Despite its impressive power figures, the initial acceleration feels sluggish, especially outside of Sport mode. The car's hefty weight is noticeable, and you'll find yourself planning your braking points ahead of time. However, the brakes themselves are responsive, and the steering is well-tuned for a vehicle of this size.
Handling and Ride Quality
The Bao 5's handling is where things get interesting. The fancy 'DiSus-P' hydraulic suspension, designed to control each wheel individually, didn't quite live up to its promise. On country roads, the ride was unsettled, and the car bobbled around. This is a surprising shortcoming for a vehicle with such advanced suspension technology. Additionally, the small engine's noise and vibrations during hard acceleration can be distracting.
Efficiency and Emissions
In terms of efficiency, the Bao 5 fell short of its official WLTP figures, achieving only 26.4mpg during our test. However, emissions are claimed to be 30g/km, and the battery's fast-charging capability is impressive, offering a 30 to 80 percent charge in just 16 minutes.
Off-Road Capabilities
While I haven't had the chance to test it off-road yet, the Bao 5 seems well-equipped for rough terrain. Its ladder frame chassis, electronic locking diffs, and adjustable suspension on the highest trim level suggest it can handle challenging conditions. The 'energy centre lock' feature, which distributes torque rapidly between axles, is particularly intriguing and could be a game-changer for off-road enthusiasts.
Interior Tech Overload
Step inside, and you'll find a tech-lover's paradise. The Bao 5 is packed with screens, including a 12.3-inch digital dial display, a massive 15.6-inch central touchscreen, and a 12.3-inch passenger screen for movies and karaoke. The abundance of screens might be overwhelming for some, and navigation could be more intuitive. Thankfully, physical buttons for off-road functions and a premium sound system enhance the overall experience.
Practicality and Pricing
In terms of practicality, the Bao 5 offers ample space for five occupants and a unique center console storage compartment with temperature control. However, boot space is a concern, falling short of its competitors. Pricing is on the premium side, with the entry-level Elegance trim starting at £69,500 and the Ultimate trim reaching £78,880. Denza is betting on European buyers' love for SUVs, but only time will tell if the Bao 5 can compete with established luxury brands.
