The Denza D9 faced some tough competition but was our pick.
The electric luxury MPV segment was a surprisingly hotly contested one this year. We got entries from 3 different manufacturers all of whom didn’t operate in Malaysia about a year ago. To be honest, all three brands didn’t even exist a decade ago if we’re not mistaken. Ultimately the Denza D9 landed perfectly in the right spot for us in terms of appointments and pricing. This is BYD’s sub-brand’s first entry into the market and it’s clear that they’re here to change the status quo with the Denza D9. Upgrading MPV owners will find it’s well equipped without feeling too high-tech or alien, plus in terms of pricing it doesn’t feel like you’re overspending with the D9.
What sets the Denza D9 apart in this emerging segment is its thoughtful balance of innovation and accessibility. While its competitors have pushed technological boundaries with sometimes overwhelming interfaces and features, the D9 delivers a refined experience that feels premium yet intuitive. The spacious interior combines practical versatility with genuine luxury touches that elevate the family transportation experience.
The vehicle’s electric powertrain provides impressive range and performance without compromising on the comfort and quietness expected in this class. Most importantly, Denza has managed to position the D9 at a price point that represents genuine value—an achievement that shouldn’t be underestimated as electric vehicles continue their march toward mainstream adoption in the Malaysian market. For families seeking sustainable luxury transportation, the D9 establishes itself as the segment’s new benchmark.
About The Allianz DSF VOTY Awards
The Allianz DSF.my Vehicle Of The Year (VOTY) Award ceremony is the first and only vehicle award event in Malaysia that does not hand out paid awards, nor does it charge winners or participating brands any fee whatsoever. Winners are allowed to use the VOTY event logo free of charge in all marketing materials. Event attendees are not even charged for their seat at the award presentation. All car manufacturers that operate in Malaysia are invited to participate free of charge. All they have to do is let our judges test drive their nominated vehicles.
The nominated vehicles must have been launched in Malaysia in the last 12 months and cannot be a localised minor facelift (body-kits, stickers, wheel upgrades, etc). All judging is independent and is put down to a vote before the winners are selected. Car manufacturers are not informed if they are winning or not before the event.
2025 marks a significant milestone for VOTY as Allianz celebrates its 16th year as the title sponsor of this prestigious automotive event. This year also commemorates Daniel Sherman Fernandez’s 25th year in the automotive industry, highlighting his longstanding contribution and commitment to automotive journalism in Malaysia.The judges for VOTY 2025 are Daniel Sherman Fernandez and Subhash Nair of dsf.my, Ross Hadi of gohedgostan.com and Joshua Chin of automacha.com.
