2023 Toyota bZ4X Breaks Through Into a New Era of Electric Crossover SUVs

Toyota's long-anticipated entry into the full-time electric vehicle (EV) market has been well worth the wait with the all-new bZ4X now vying for attention in the highly charged EV game. This new SUV isn't merely about offering another buying option in Toyota's fleet of popular gas and hybrid SUVs. It is a groundbreaking vehicle that is the first in a series of emission-free automobiles that are aptly named with the bZ nomenclature which means 'beyond Zero'. The all-new bZ4x has set the stage for an automotive future that encompasses both environmental responsibility and groundbreaking design.

Driving Performance

Another first for this new crossover is the incorporation of the all-new BEV-dedicated e-TNGA vehicle platform, a first for Toyota. The goal for this new platform was to blend the utility aspect typically found in small SUVs, plus a smooth and powerful driving experience that one would expect from an electric vehicle. This was accomplished by lowering the center of gravity of the bZ by mounting the high-capacity Lithium-Ion battery beneath the floor. Also, the lightweight body, a battery cross-framing structure, high tensile steel reinforcements, and dynamic suspension all work in conjunction providing a great sustainable driving experience.

The bZ4X makes a striking impression with its balanced and sleek profile, featuring dynamic character lines that traverse from the front to the rear of the vehicle. In the Toyota SUV fleet, the new EV slots in between the Highlander and RAV4. It's not your average middle child, the bZ is 2.0 inches lower than the RAV4 and is 3.7 inches longer with a total length of 185 inches. Its wheelbase is equally impressive, matching the larger Highlander at 112.2 inches, ensuring a stable and comfortable ride.

Step inside and you're greeted with a spacious interior offering a generous 42.1 inches of legroom for front-seat occupants, while rear passengers enjoy 35.3 inches. And when it comes to hauling your gear, the bZ4X doesn't disappoint, providing 27.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row. Toyota's bZ4X is set to redefine the compact SUV segment with its combination of style, space, and performance.

Powerful Performance

The bZX4 powertrain is an impressive blend of performance and efficiency. Front-wheel drive variants are equipped with a 71.4 kWh battery and a single 1XM model e-Axle, generating a robust 150 kW 201 hp. This setup offers an estimated range of 228 miles but also allows the crossover to go from 0 to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds. For those craving even more traction and power, the all-wheel drive configuration features twin 1YM model e-Axles, each delivering 107 hp, resulting in a combined output of 214 hp and an estimated range of 228 miles. The bZ can go from 0 to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds. When you convert the numbers, the bZX4 has an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 114 MPGe city, 94 MPGe highway and 104 MPGe combined.

Both front-wheel and all-wheel drive crossover versions are equipped with a 355-volt pack that readily accepts DC fast charging. Front-wheel drive models can charge at a maximum rate of 150 kW, while all-wheel drive models can charge at 100 kW. Using a fast charger, you can juice up the battery pack to 80% capacity in just 30 minutes, ensuring you spend more time on the road and less time waiting at the charging station.

Making EV Ownership Easier

When new bZ4X owners buy or lease their vehicle, they can also include a ChargePoint home charging system into the cost of their new vehicle, as they will have the option to purchase a ChargePoint® Home Flex Level 2 charger from participating Toyota dealerships or directly from ChargePoint online. Also to help make ownership easier for customers who purchase or lease a new 2023 Toyota bZ4X, they will also get one year of unlimited complimentary charging at all EVgo-owned and operated public charging stations nationwide. Customers will be able to use the Toyota App on their mobile device to sign up for this offer, locate EVgo stations, and initiate complimentary charging for their new bZ4X.

Driver Assist and Safety

bZ4X is the first to feature the latest Toyota Safety SenseTM safety package (TSS 3.0). This system has been enhanced by expanding the detection range of the millimeter wave radar and monocular camera. Toyota has enhanced the performance of each function and added new functions to assist in normal driving conditions.

Press Loan

My press loan for the week was the AWD Limited which featured the twin 1YM model e-Axles that delivered 107 hp each and a combined output of 215 hp. The range was a respectable 228, which is pretty good for its debut. I liked this SUV, not just because it was an EV that can get you up to 80 mph so quickly and smoothly that you won't even realize it because of some crazy technology feature called an 'intelligent throttle'. Ur uh, not that it happened to me or anything, but a 'friend' told me they would be running 80 mph and not even feel, hear, or know it. I also liked this crossover because when I climbed in, even though it was a new ground-up build with many new technology advancements, it felt very familiar and comfortable like it was a converted gas SUV to an EV powertrain. It wasn't over-engineered or designed to the point you had to change up your whole driving routine. And for me as a busy business owner that is a good thing.

The bZ4X is not just a vehicle; it's a declaration of Toyota's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric design. Its distinct, futuristic design challenges norms while retaining SUV familiarity, showcasing Toyota's innovative engineering. As Toyota embarks on this new journey of 'beyond Zero' by reshaping the future of driving and setting a new standard for electric crossover SUVs, the bZ4x is a great Gen 1 start.

Specifications

Engine: 214 horsepower Twin 1YM model e-Axles with 355-volt high-capacity Lithium-Ion battery
Wheels: 20" Multi-Spoke Alloy Wheels
Sound: JBL Premium 9-speaker System including subwoofer and amp
Touchscreen: 12.3"
Color: Black/Heavy Metal
Fuel: 114/94/104 (mpg city/highway/combined)
MSRP (starts): $42,0000
MSRP (shown): $52,468

Learn More

For more information or to test drive this vehicle for yourself, stop by a local dealer or visit online at:
Toyota bZ4X

ABOUT TOYOTA

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. and North America for more than 60 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands. During that time, Toyota has created a tremendous value chain as our teams have contributed to world-class design, engineering, and assembly of more than 39 million cars and trucks in North America, where we have 14 manufacturing plants, 15 including our joint venture in Alabama (10 in the U.S.), and directly employ more than 47,000 people (over 36,000 in the U.S.). Our 1,800 North American dealerships (nearly 1,500 in the U.S.) sold 2.8 million cars and trucks (2.4 million in the U.S.) in 2019.