BYD has expanded the color palette of its Denza N9 plug-in hybrid SUV with a new Dark Gold exterior finish. Initially, the new color option is being offered free of charge to buyers of the flagship trim as part of a limited-time promotion. The highlight of the package is a front badge coated with real gold.
The Dark Gold edition features a black exterior accented by gold-colored trim pieces, including horizontal decorative strips running across the front fenders, doors, and rear body section, as well as a gold accent on the front bumper. Similar to the recently unveiled Denza D9 minivan in the same color scheme, the N9 receives a badge finished with 24-karat gold.
Other distinguishing features include yellow brake calipers and 22-inch alloy wheels. An additional gold-colored badge is mounted on the passenger-side D-pillar, while the driver’s side retains the standard emblem. BYD has not explained the reason for this asymmetrical design choice. Aside from these details, the exterior remains unchanged, featuring a closed front fascia, large headlights, a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor, flush door handles, a sloping roofline, and a sporty rear spoiler.
The Dark Gold finish is available free of charge only on the flagship version of the N9 during the promotional period. Under normal conditions, the option is priced at 30,000 yuan (approximately $4,420). The flagship Denza N9 itself starts at 469,800 yuan (around $69,160). The color is not available on the entry-level trim, while buyers of the mid-range version can order it for an additional 10,000 yuan (about $1,470).
The Denza N9 officially went on sale in China on May 18.
Power comes from a plug-in hybrid system combining a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 152 kW (204 hp) with three electric motors. The front motor delivers 200 kW (268 hp), while the two rear motors generate 240 kW (322 hp) each. Combined electric output reaches 680 kW (912 hp), enabling the SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds.
The vehicle supports ultra-fast charging, allowing the battery to be replenished from 10% to 80% in nine minutes. The N9 also features rear-wheel steering and an active suspension system, while its combined driving range reaches up to 1,520 km.
According to China EV DataTracker, 1,565 units of the Denza N9 were sold in May 2026, representing a 66.1% decline compared with the same month a year earlier.
