Introduction
Toyota has long been a leader in hybrid technology, but the Toyota bZ4X represents its first serious foray into the fully electric vehicle (EV) market. Launched as a mid-sized electric SUV, the bZ4X competes with popular models like the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Kia EV6, and Tesla Model Y. Co-developed with Subaru, which offers a near-identical version called the Solterra, the bZ4X combines Toyota’s reputation for reliability with modern EV technology. This comprehensive review explores the bZ4X’s design, performance, technology, and more to determine its place in the competitive EV landscape.
Design and Aesthetics
The Toyota bZ4X stands out with a bold, futuristic exterior. Its ‘Hammerhead’ front-end design, a signature for Toyota’s electric vehicles, features sharp angles and a sleek black plastic ‘moustache’ that conceals forward-facing sensors. The SUV’s angular lines and funky plastic wheel arches add visual flair, making it a head-turner in the mid-sized SUV segment. A split roof spoiler on higher trims enhances aerodynamics, though the absence of a rear wiper may frustrate some drivers in adverse weather.
Inside, the bZ4X offers a modern cabin with a fabric dashboard and synthetic leather upholstery, aligning with its eco-friendly ethos. However, the use of hard plastics and mixed textures detracts from the premium feel, falling short of competitors like the Skoda Enyaq iV or Nissan Ariya (Autocar). The interior is practical, with ample space for four adults and a high seating position that provides excellent visibility.
Interior Features and Comfort
The bZ4X’s cabin is designed for comfort and functionality. Front seats are power-adjustable and heated, with lumbar support for the driver, while higher trims add ventilated seats and a heated steering wheel. Rear passengers enjoy excellent legroom, though headroom can be tight for taller individuals.
The infotainment system features an 8-inch touchscreen on the base Pure trim, upgrading to 12.3 inches on higher trims, with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for seamless smartphone integration. However, the high-set gauge cluster has been criticized for its basic, dated graphics and lack of battery percentage display (Autocar). The small steering wheel, while distinctive, can obstruct gauge visibility for some drivers, requiring adjustment.
Cargo space is adequate at 452 liters, fitting eight carry-on suitcases, with underfloor storage for charging cables (What Car?). While practical, this is less than competitors like the Kia EV6, which offers more boot capacity.
Performance and Driving Experience
The Toyota bZ4X is available in two configurations: a front-wheel-drive (FWD) model with a single 201-horsepower motor and an all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant with dual 107-horsepower motors, totaling 214 horsepower. The FWD model accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.1 seconds, while the AWD version achieves 0 to 62 mph in 6.9 seconds.
On the road, the bZ4X delivers a competent and precise driving experience, with a low center of gravity ensuring tight roll control . The FWD model exhibits mild torque steer, while the AWD version feels more planted. However, grip is limited by the standard Bridgestone Alenza tires, and the steering, though moderately weighted, uses a slow-geared rack that may not satisfy driving enthusiasts.
The braking system employs a by-wire setup with a mechanical backup, offering a firm but artificial feel. Regenerative braking is available, but the bZ4X lacks true one-pedal driving, which may disappoint EV drivers accustomed to this feature (Autocar). The ride is comfortable, effectively isolating passengers from road imperfections, though it’s slightly louder than some rivals, with 20-inch wheels contributing to mild dashboard rattles (Autocar).
For off-road adventures, the AWD bZ4X excels with its X-Mode, offering a 500mm wading depth and impressive traction on muddy slopes, making it more capable than many competitors in this segment.
Battery Life and Charging
The bZ4X is powered by a 71.4 kWh lithium-ion battery, with 64.0 kWh usable capacity (EV Database). Official range figures are up to 318 miles for the FWD model and 286 miles for the AWD version, though real-world estimates suggest around 250 miles and 200 miles, respectively. Efficiency is rated at 2.9 miles per kWh in real-world conditions.
Charging capabilities include a maximum DC fast-charging rate of 150 kW, enabling a 10-80% charge in approximately 28-30 minutes (EV Database). Home charging with a 7kW charger takes about 13 hours for a full charge (What Car?). Toyota offers a 10-year battery warranty, guaranteeing at least 70% capacity with annual dealer checks, adding peace of mind for long-term ownership (What Car?).
| Charging Type | Power | Time (0-100%) | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home (7kW) | 6.6 kW | ~13 hours | 30 km/h |
| DC Fast (10-80%) | 150 kW | ~28-30 minutes | 520 km/h |
| Wall Plug (2.3 kW) | 2.3 kW | ~32 hours | 11 km/h |
Technology and Infotainment
The bZ4X’s infotainment system is functional but not cutting-edge. The 8-inch or 12.3-inch touchscreen supports wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and navigation, with a suite of connected services (Carwow). However, the interface and graphics are considered dated compared to rivals like the Tesla Model Y (Autocar).
Driver assistance features are robust, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims add a 360-degree camera and high beam assist, enhancing convenience and safety (Carwow).
Safety Features
The bZ4X has earned a 5-star Euro NCAP rating in 2022, with strong scores for adult (88%) and child (87%) occupant protection (EV Database). Standard safety features include:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
- Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Front and rear parking sensors
Higher trims add advanced features like a 360-degree camera and blind-spot monitoring, making the bZ4X a safe choice for families (What Car?).
| Safety Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Standard |
| Lane-Keeping Assist | Standard |
| Blind-Spot Monitoring | Motion trim up |
| 360-Degree Camera | Vision trim |
| Automatic Emergency Braking | Standard |
Pricing and Availability
Pricing for the Toyota bZ4X starts at approximately £42,860 in the UK for the base Pure trim, with higher trims like Motion and Vision reaching up to £54,410 (EV Database). In the US, the 2024 model starts at $43,070 for the XLE FWD trim, with AWD and Limited trims increasing the cost. The bZ4X is available in multiple markets, with production scaling to meet demand.
| Trim | Drivetrain | Base Price (UK) | Base Price (US) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pure/XLE | FWD | £42,860 | $43,070 |
| Motion | FWD/AWD | ~£47,000 | ~$45,150 (AWD) |
| Vision/Limited | AWD | £54,410 | $49,260 |
Comparison with Competitors
The Toyota bZ4X faces stiff competition in the electric SUV market. Compared to the Kia EV6 and Tesla Model Y, its range (318 miles FWD) and charging speed (150 kW) are less impressive, with rivals offering over 350 miles and 250 kW+ charging (What Car?). The Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Volkswagen ID.4 also provide more spacious interiors and advanced infotainment systems.
However, the bZ4X stands out with its off-road capabilities in AWD models, a feature not commonly found in this segment (Electrifying.com). Toyota’s fifth-place ranking in the 2024 What Car? Reliability Survey and its 10-year battery warranty provide a significant advantage for buyers prioritizing durability (What Car?).
| Model | Range (miles) | Max Charging (kW) | Starting Price (UK) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota bZ4X (FWD) | 318 | 150 | £42,860 |
| Kia EV6 | 328 | 260 | £43,000 |
| Tesla Model Y | 373 | 250 | £44,990 |
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 | 315 | 260 | £39,900 |
Conclusion
The Toyota bZ4X is a commendable first effort in the fully electric SUV market, offering a blend of practicality, reliability, and unique off-road capabilities. Its striking design, spacious cabin, and strong safety credentials make it a compelling choice for families and Toyota loyalists. However, its range, charging speed, and interior quality trail behind class leaders like the Kia EV6 and Tesla Model Y.
For buyers seeking a dependable electric SUV with the backing of Toyota’s trusted brand, the bZ4X is a solid option, particularly for those who value its AWD off-road prowess and long-term battery warranty. While it may not set the segment alight, the bZ4X lays a strong foundation for Toyota’s electric future.
