Overview

In the 2023 Toyota bZ4X, the "bZ" stands for Beyond Zero (Toyota's vision of carbon neutrality), the "4" indicates that its size is similar to the Toyota RAV4, and the "X" suggests that it is an SUV. It's based on the exclusive e-TNGA platform co-developed by Toyota and Subaru, the battery unit is placed under the vehicle floor as part of the chassis, achieving a low center of gravity and better body rigidity.

Power system

The front-wheel-drive bZ4X variant tested is equipped with a front-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor which outputs 204 PS and 266 Nm of torque. 0 - 100 km/h acceleration takes 8.4 seconds and top speed is 160 km/h. Power is transmitted to the front wheels through the BluE Nexus e-Axle transmission. The car is equipped with a 71.4 kWh battery, DC fast charging can reach 150 kW, the onboard charger accepts up to 6.6 kW AC charging (Type 2 connector), and WLTP range is 500 km.

Safety system

The Toyota bZ4X introduces Toyota's latest ADAS package, Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0), including Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Front and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Traffic Sign Recognition, and Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD), etc.

Body size

The wheelbase of bZ4X is 2850 mm, which is longer than Toyota Fortuner's (2745 mm). While it might be compared to Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Volvo XC40 Recharge, the bZ4X is actually larger.

Interior configuration

The interior design of bZ4X is different from other Toyota models currently on sale, with a combination of various materials, such as the fabric of the central console. It's equipped with a 12.3-inch central infotainment screen and 7-inch digital dashboard. The infotainment system currently only supports Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto is coming soon. The design of the wireless charging bay is unique, with a translucent cover for easy viewing of the phone's status. However, there are some problems with the steering wheel and dashboard, and some drivers' views may be obstructed. The vehicle is spacious, with comfortable seats; the rear leg space and seat height are excellent, and it can easily accommodate three passengers.

Fuel consumption

Electric cars do not consume petrol.