2023 Toyota bZ4X

It's been eight years since Toyota last offered a battery electric vehicle here in the United States, and it only existed to satisfy California's strict zero-emissions mandate. After dragging its feet since then, the Japanese automaker is finally ready to offer an electric car that does more than meet government regulations. Enter the 2023 Toyota bZ4X, the first in a new series of 'Beyond Zero' EVs accounting for 30 models by 2030 - hence the bZ moniker. The '4X' portion of the name refers to the size and body style, roughly translating to a RAV4-sized crossover.

With the mainstream EV segment still relatively new, the bZ4X will enter the fray against a wide variety of competitors. There's the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 from Asia, the Ford Mustang Mach-E from the USA, the Volkswagen ID.4 from Germany, and the Subaru Solterra, a rebadged version of the bZ4X. And that's just what's available now; more are coming. Toyota is hoping that 201 horsepower in FWD trim and 214 hp in AWD dual-motor form are enough to stave off the threat from rivals, but with only 252 miles worth of range in its most efficient FWD configuration, the bZ4X will have to put up a strong showing in other areas.

We wouldn't go so far as to describe the bZ4X as a beautiful electric car, but it stands out from Toyota's more traditional crop of crossovers. It also looks a lot like its corporate cousin, the Subaru Solterra. One aspect that we appreciate about EVs is that it's easier to forgo the disturbing big-grille trend. The Toyota bZ4X electric SUV has a smooth front end with sleek LED daytime running lights and bi-LED projector low- and high-beam headlights. The more expensive Limited has multi-LED headlights instead. Big, black-painted overfenders surround the wheel arches, dominating the side view. They're distinctive but rather jarring, especially on models finished in lighter colors. At the back, there are LED taillights and the cluster housing extends deep into the fenders.

XLE variants ride on 18-inch alloy wheels and come with a ducktail rear spoiler, black window trim, and a panoramic fixed glass sunroof. The Limited has larger 20-inch alloys, chrome window trim, and a foot-activated power liftgate. A split roof spoiler is one of the most unusual styling elements and is an option on Limited models only.

Key Toyota bZ4X dimensions reveal a crossover that's larger overall than the Volkswagen ID.4. It is 184.6 inches long, 73.2 inches wide excluding the mirrors, and 65 inches in height. The Toyota bZ4X's length is 3.7 inches longer than that of the RAV4. The wheelbase stretches to 112.2 inches and the ground clearance is 8.1 inches.

Being an EV, the bZ4X is far from lightweight. The base XLE with FWD weighs 4,266 pounds, and that goes all the way up to 4,464 lbs for the Limited AWD. Despite the size of the Toyota bZ4X, it's lighter than the ID.4.

The only no-cost color is Black. For an added cost, both trims can be finished in Wind Chill Pearl, Supersonic Red, Elemental Silver Metallic, or Heavy Metal.

Available exclusively on the Limited is a selection of two-tone colors. Here, a black roof is paired with one of the aforementioned premium shades. It has to be said that the Limited looks rather striking in red with the black roof and those black-painted overfenders.

Compared to a conventionally-powered crossover like the gas-only Toyota RAV4, the new Toyota bZ4X's performance specs are competitive. In single-motor FWD guise, it makes 201 hp which is enough for a 0-60 mph sprint time of 7.1 seconds. With AWD and dual motors, the output increases to 214 hp and the Toyota bZ4X's 0-60 time drops to 6.5 seconds. The instantaneous torque makes the Toyota spritely to drive in the city - taking gaps in rush-hour traffic is easy. However, the Toyota is not as quick as even the base Ford Mustang Mach-E.

The base bZ4X comes with a single electric motor powering the front wheels. It develops 201 hp and 196 lb-ft of torque. In the case of the AWD model, there are two electric motors developing a combined 214 hp (107 hp front/107 hp rear) and an even 124 lb-ft at each axle. Rather than keep the front motor the same size and add significantly more power, like what other automakers do for their EVs, Toyota wanted to keep the bZ4X's power output fairly conservative. There are two Toyota bZ4X battery sizes - whereas FWD derivatives have a 71.4-kWh battery, the AWD has a 72.8-kWh battery. Oddly, these batteries come from separate manufacturers and even offer different peak charging speeds.

Both models get off the line spiritedly, but the AWD bZ4X is slightly more pokey to drive by virtue of its extra power. This model comes with an X-Mode feature; coupled with Multi-terrain Select, the bZ4X offers Snow/Dirt and Snow/Mud modes. For colder climates, the AWD model is the obvious choice.

We spent limited time driving new the bZ4X in San Diego, but we could immediately tell Toyota wanted to make it familiar to customers trading in a hybrid vehicle like a Prius or RAV4. Everything you love (or hate) about Toyota is on display here: a comfortable ride that isn't too jarring, somewhat annoying road noise at highway speeds, and an overall feeling of solidarity from behind the wheel. Imagine a RAV4, but slightly better in every way. The steering is tighter and more accurate, body roll is less pronounced thanks to the low center of gravity, and overtaking maneuvers are no longer accompanied by a groaning four-cylinder engine and continuously variable transmission. It's quite serene.

It feels like Toyota took a different path than its rivals, going to great lengths to keep the bZ4X's driving characteristics close to an ICE vehicle. There is a brake regeneration mode, but it's far from a one-pedal driving experience as Toyota didn't think its customers would be receptive to such a different style of driving. This is a no-fuss, no-thrills EV, and that's just fine. Anyone who's enjoyed their Toyota hybrid ownership experience and is ready to take the next step without abandoning their brand loyalty won't be disappointed by the bZ4X.

This section may prove to be the one that solidifies a purchasing decision for those shopping in this segment. Although EPA-rated figures have yet to be published for the 2023 Toyota bZ4X, the manufacturer has released information on what to expect. While acceptable, the Toyota bZ4X's range doesn't match the best in the class. The XLE FWD model has the best range of 252 miles, followed by the Limited FWD on 242. Blame larger tires and more standard equipment adding weight for that range drop. The XLE AWD can travel 228 miles on a full charge and the Limited AWD has the shortest range at 222 miles. This is fair, but the Ford Mustang Mach-E has a much better range of up to 314 miles.

As far as efficiency goes, the XLE FWD should manage 131/107/119 MPGe city/highway/combined, dropping to 114/94/104 MPGe for the XLE AWD. The Limited FWD returns 125/103/114 MPGe and the Limited AWD is the least efficient with figures of 112/92/102 MPGe.

Using a Level 2 charger, the 6.6-kW onboard charger can be used to replenish the battery in approximately 11 hours. A standard 120V outlet will take longer, of course. A better bet is high-output DC fast charging which can get the battery up to 80% in an hour or so. As we mentioned earlier, the FWD and AWD bZ4X models feature different batteries. The FWD version peaks at 150 kW, while the AWD one can only charge at 100 kW, significantly slower than rivals from South Korea. The optional ChargePoint Home Flex Level 2 charger can be purchased from Toyota. The 23-foot cable is Wi-Fi enabled and can add 25 miles of range per hour, or fully charge the battery overnight.

Customers will receive one year of unlimited complimentary charging at nationwide EVgo public charging stations.

The Toyota bZ4X's interior is clearly that of a modern electric crossover. You can tell by its eco-friendly materials, the large 12.3-inch display, and the touch-sensitive climate controls. However, it's also a little dreary in its standard black/grey color scheme - both the Volkswagen ID.4 and Ford Mustang Mach-E look more interesting inside. Toyota says that the dedicated BEV platform allowed it to design a spacious interior that is particularly wide, so three passengers at the back won't be too uncomfortable. Every model comes with a standard seven-inch multi-information display, although it's surrounded by a cheap-looking housing in shiny plastic. Dual-zone automatic climate control and a soft-touch fabric dashboard are standard.

The bZ4X is strictly a five-seat vehicle with no option for a third row. Passenger space feels generous, with some deceptive measurements on the spec sheet. Rear legroom, for example, feels more spacious than a comparable RAV4, despite the measurements saying otherwise. A lack of large transmission tunnel in the rear aids in the overall feeling of openness, though some competitors like the Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 offer more room in the back. Front passengers have ample space for their feet, with clever storage freed up by the lack of a physical transmission. We feel like Toyota could have gone further to create a futuristic cabin, but wanted to keep the layout more familiar for its loyal customers.

The base XLE comes with a mix of fabric/SofTex seating upholstery with an embossed polygonal design. Disappointingly, this model makes do with only a dreary black interior. Automakers tend to experiment with interior materials on EVs and the same is true here. The bZ4X has an unusual soft-touch fabric for the dashboard. It looks neat but it remains to be seen how this material will age. Piano Black interior accents and a leather-wrapped steering wheel are standard.

For Limited models, the seats are trimmed in only SofTex in either Black or a much more welcoming Light Gray. This trim level also has a satin material to give the space a further lift. We were, however, disappointed with the appearance of the plastic surrounding the instrument panel. Still, being a Toyota, the bZ4X cabin should stand the test of time.

Behind the second row, the Toyota bZ4X's cargo space amounts to 27.7 cubic feet. If you equip the optional JBL sound system on the Limited models, the trunk size is reduced to 25.8 cubes. While the Toyota's trunk is useful for daily errands and short getaways, both the Volkswagen ID.4 and Ford Mustang Mach-E have more space behind their second row of seats. A 60/40-split-folding second row makes transporting larger or more unusually shaped items easier in the Toyota, though the company does not quote storage space with the seats folded. Unlike some other EVs, there is no front trunk under the bZ4X's hood.

Toyota has done well to maximize interior storage space. There is an open storage area below the floating center console, and it's large enough for a small handbag. Above this is the armrest which doubles as covered storage. Cupholders are provided for front and rear occupants, and there are seatback pockets behind both front seats. More storage is also provided in the door pockets and under the trunk floor for a charging cable.

With only two trim levels, the all-electric bZ4X lineup doesn't confuse you with a maze of choices, options, and trim levels. The base XLE comes with a seven-inch LCD display for key information, wireless smartphone charging, one USB-A port, and four USB-C charge ports. Those features will keep the smartphone generation happy. The front seats are six-way manually adjustable and can be optionally heated. Dual-zone automatic climate control, rain-sensing wipers, a panoramic fixed glass roof with a power sunshade, and a dial-type shift knob are all standard.

The Limited builds on those features with heated and ventilated front seats, an eight-way power driver's seat, remote start, and a heated steering wheel. Heated rear seats and a front radiant foot-and-leg heater are options on this top trim.

Both models are generously equipped with safety gear like lane departure alert, blind-spot monitoring, a rearview camera, and dynamic radar cruise control. Front and rear parking assist is standard. The Limited also has an overhead camera system with perimeter scan and curb view.

Like other recent Toyota vehicles, the bZ4X gets the company's latest infotainment system, living on a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen. We've grown to love this system in our previous encounters, with standard features such as wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, over-the-air updates, Apple/Amazon Music integration, intelligent voice command, and more. Aside from a charging menu, the bZ4X's infotainment is standard Toyota kit.

Aside from the infotainment screen, there's also a small helper display in front of the steering wheel. This screen shows standard information such as range, acceleration/regen, and battery status. It can also show audio, trip, and other data. While the screen is helpful, its placement feels rather awkward. Unless you lower the steering wheel to an uncomfortably low level, the display can be obscured. We suggest sitting in the bZ4X and adjusting the seat and wheel to see if it fits you properly.

The basic sound system is a six-speaker unit across the range, but Limited models have access to a nine-speaker audio setup from JBL, which includes a subwoofer and amplifier.

No recalls have been issued for the Toyota bZ4X SUV in the USA and it has no reliability rating just yet, owing to the fact that it's an all-new model. It'll certainly be interesting to see if Toyota can infuse its EV with the same dependability we've come to expect from models like the Corolla and RAV4.

If there are any teething issues, the bZ4X is covered by the brand's three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty, and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The battery is covered for eight years or 100,000 miles, and the Toyota Care plan provides complimentary scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles. Regardless of the Toyota bZ4X's mileage, it receives five years of corrosion protection.

No safety review of the 2023 Toyota bZ4X has yet been published by either the NHTSA or the IIHS since it has only just arrived. We expect it to be a safe crossover, though.

The Toyota Safety Sense suite is standard on all bZ4X derivatives. This safety suite includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning with steering assist, lane tracing assist, automatic high beams, full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control, and road sign assist. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and safe exit assist add up to what is a comprehensive safety package. Toyota also throws in front/rear parking assist with automatic braking. The XLE makes do with a more basic rearview camera, whereas the Limited comes with dynamic gridlines for its rearview camera in addition to an overhead camera system with perimeter scan and curb view.

The Star Safety System is also included and comprises vehicle stability control, traction control, and the usual ABS/EBD braking. Occupants are protected by eight airbags including curtain airbags for all outboard seating positions and knee airbags for the driver and front-seat passenger. In the event of a crash, the Safety Connect group of features could prove life-saving as it encompasses roadside assistance with automatic collision notification, emergency assistance, and a stolen vehicle indicator. AWD models come with downhill assist control.

The 2023 bZ4X feels like a solid electric car, but in typical Toyota fashion, doesn't make any major leaps. We can't imagine any Tesla owners will trade in their Model Y Performance for one, but a Prius owner ready to go all-electric would certainly consider it. None of the bZ4X's numbers jump off the spec sheet in a formidable way, so it's hard to pinpoint one major selling point to recommend it over aforementioned rivals like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, Ford Mustang Mach-E, or Volkswagen ID.4. That being said, lacking class-leading performance has never slowed Toyota down in the past.

We know there are owners out there who are ready to buy their first EV, but want the "T" on the front to stand for Toyota's legendary reliability. This is that car: an EV for loyalists who walk into the Toyota dealership at their lease end and simply choose their color. In that regard, the bZ4X succeeds in every measure. It retains that familiar Toyota feel without going overboard with flashy gimmicks or confusing drive modes. For better or worse, the bZ4X is exactly what we expected from Toyota's first mass-market EV.

The 2023 Toyota bZ4X's MSRP begins at $42,000 for the XLE with FWD. This is a slightly higher starting price than we expected, especially since the quicker and sportier Mustang Mach-E is barely any more expensive. The bZ4X lineup continues with the XLE AWD at $44,080, the Limited FWD at $46,700, and the Limited AWD at $48,780. Every Toyota bZ4X price listed here excludes a delivery charge of $1,215.

At the time of writing, Toyota EVs still qualified for a tax credit of $7,500.

The 2023 Toyota bZ4X is available in a choice of four trims: XLE, XLE AWD, Limited, and Limited AWD. FWD models have a single electric motor that produces 201 hp, and AWD variants have another electric motor at the back and a total output of 214 hp.

The entry-level XLE comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, a ducktail rear spoiler, bi-LED headlights, and LED daytime running lights. Although the seats are upholstered in a plain-looking cloth/SofTex upholstery combination, this model still has a seven-inch digital driver's display and a 12.3-inch touchscreen interface. Dual-zone climate control, a panoramic glass roof, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and a six-speaker sound system are standard.

Moving up to the XLE AWD doesn't have an impact on comfort and convenience features, but the second electric motor adds more power, and AWD brings with it downhill assist control as part of X-Mode. It's also worth noting that AWD models have a reduced DC charging maximum input of 100 kW, as opposed to 150 kW for FWD versions.

The Limited comes with available two-tone exterior paint and larger 20-inch alloy wheels. Additionally, it is made more comfortable inside because of an eight-way power driver's seat, SofTex upholstery, a heated steering wheel, and heated/ventilated front seats. A nine-speaker JBL sound system is optional for the Limited.

Finally, the Limited AWD combines the features of the Limited trim with the more powerful dual-motor system and AWD.

Toyota hasn't announced packages or pricing yet, but we do know about a couple of options for the bZ4X. The XLE can be upgraded with a heated steering wheel and heated front seats. There are more options for the Limited. This top-spec trim is available with extras like a nine-speaker JBL sound system, a front radiant foot-and-leg heater, heated rear seats, or a split roof rear spoiler. We should find out soon what the cost of these extras will be.

We sampled two versions of the bZ4X during our first drive: the FWD XLE model and the AWD Limited. While the added features of the Limited are welcomed, we might lean towards the XLE for its lower starting price and higher driving range. The XLE's interior felt premium enough that we could live without the Limited. As for the FWD vs AWD decision, we felt perfectly comfortable with the acceleration offered in the single motor version. It's not quite as quick, but still feels more eager to accelerate than a gas-only or hybrid Toyota RAV4. Unless you need the AWD for snow or off-road, we think the FWD model is just fine. Prepare to pay $42,000 minus a $7,500 federal tax credit, which you can maybe use on a few options.

These two electric crossovers are very closely related. They share the same e-TNGA platform (Subaru calls it e-SGP), nearly identical interior designs, and the same dual-motor powertrain with AWD. However, the bZ4X also comes in single-motor FWD configuration, which should be a cheaper base option - and it has better range than the Solterra. It's nearly impossible to separate the AWD bZX4 from the Solterra, though. As expected, the Subaru brings a little more capability to the table with 8.3 inches of ground clearance, 0.2 inches more than the Toyota. With 30 cubic feet of trunk space, the Solterra also has a marginally bigger trunk. Features are similar, but the Solterra has an available Harman Kardon sound system in place of the Toyota's JBL unit. Based purely on the Toyota's better range and the availability of an FWD model, we'd side with the bZ4X.

The stunning Kia EV6 is another hugely appealing electric crossover - although it doesn't look even slightly interested in going off-road. Inside and out, it's the more premium-looking product, despite the fact that the EV6 begins at a cheaper $40,900. The base EV6 only has 167 hp and a range of 232 miles, whereas the entry-level bZ4X has 201 hp and a 252-mile range. The EV6 counters with a better warranty and more standard features like heated front seats and dual 12.3-inch displays. The bZ4X has more cargo space but less rear legroom. For just over $50,000, you can drive off in a rapid 320-hp version of the EV6. This is an interesting battle at base level as the Toyota is faster and can go further on a charge, whereas the EV6 has better tech and a more premium look and feel. It's the Kia that we most want to park in the garage, though.