The Denza Bao 5 is a bold new entrant in the luxury SUV market, but is it a worthy rival to the Land Rover Defender? With a powerful plug-in hybrid powertrain, an array of screens, and a price tag that starts at £69,500, the Bao 5 certainly has the potential to turn heads. However, as I drove it on the country lanes surrounding the Goodwood Motor Circuit, I couldn't help but feel that it falls short of the mark. The Bao 5's 537bhp and 561lb ft of torque are impressive on paper, but in practice, it feels sluggish and heavy, especially when not in Sport mode. The ride quality was also unsettling, with the fancy 'DiSus-P' suspension setup failing to smooth out the bumps. Despite its off-road credentials, the Bao 5's performance on the road leaves something to be desired. The interior is a mixed bag, with the screens being a little too busy and the rear door opening the wrong way for left-hand drive markets. However, the panoramic roof and 18-speaker Devialet sound system are welcome additions. Overall, the Denza Bao 5 is a bold statement, but it needs some refinement to truly stand out in the luxury SUV market. Personally, I think it's a step in the right direction, but it's not quite there yet. The price tag is certainly a barrier, but with some improvements, it could be a serious contender.
