Chinese brand Denza will test the resolve of Toyota and Land Rover when it officially launches its heavy-duty 4×4 later this year.

The chunky Land Cruiser lookalike, dubbed the B5, is the work of a “premium” sub-division of BYD, which has led the recent rush of UK imports from the People’s Republic.

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These newcomers have transformed the automotive market and, while compatriot Jaecoo has gone aggressive on pricing to hook a few would-be Defender buyers, Denza is majoring on the performance of its 677hp/760Nm powertrain.

This hellacious output is delivered by the firm’s “super hybrid technology”, comprising a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine, front and rear electric motors, and a 31.8kWh lithium iron phosphate battery.

Marrying these components with an e-CVT transmission and a heavy right boot will get the near-3t lump to 62mph in a blistering 4.8sec.

Despite its weight, the B5 can apparently manage an electric-only range of about 60 miles and, thanks to a sophisticated all-wheel drive system, climb gradients of up to 40deg.

Though Denza debuted the vehicle at last year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, it and the brand’s other two cars – a rapid Z9 GT estate and keenly specced D9 people carrier – won’t be available to buy until later this year.