Toyota’s first EV is an all-electric crossover. The bZ4X is a stylish little crossover with a more futuristic look. The bZ4X sports a front end without a big grill like Toyota gas vehicles, and I like the look. The sleek LED headlight clusters are visually appealing with small individual lights inside the cluster. The Limited trim level is equipped with large 20-inch wheels and a unique two-tone paint job. An onlooker nicknamed it the “panda car” for its Windchill pearl and black paint accents, adding to the look of this ride.
Toyota’s first EV can come with one motor for FWD, or you can choose a dual motor version for all-wheel drive. I tested the single motor version with 201hp. It might feel peppy if you’re coming from a gas vehicle, but rather pokey if you’re already driving an EV. While not thrilling, it’s a competent daily driver, comfortable and handled bumps nicely. The bZ4X range isn’t as good as some others in its class with about a 242-mile range. Using the climate control and highway driving seems to really cut into the range — more than a few of the other smaller crossover EVs I have driven recently.
Inside, the bZ4X sports a modern take for a Toyota. The dash has a new look with a recessed cockpit and a screen for the driver that looks very different from other Toyota vehicles. The large 12.3-inch touch screen in the center dash is easy to operate without much of a learning curve. While the knobs are gone, there are volume buttons under the large screen. This small crossover comes with comfortable front seats that are heated and ventilated for enhanced comfort, both winter and summer. The back seat will fit most riders nicely. The deep cut in the back door design might make it tougher for some to enter or exit easily.
Cost: $46,700; as tested $49,728
MPG: 125MPGe city and 103MPGe highway
Safety: Toyota Safety Sense 3.0; pre-collision system with pedestrian detection; full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control; lane departure alert with steering assist; lane tracking assist; blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert
Options: $1,335 delivery and handling fee; $350 Limited weather package; $500 two-tone paint; $425 special color; $269 carpet floor mats/cargo mat; $149 mudguard
Things to know: The Toyota bZ4X is the company’s first all-electric ride with modern looks and updated technology. However, the range falls short of some of the competition.
Pros:
- A stylish, small all-electric crossover
- Comfortable seats for both front and rear passengers
- Lots of easy-to-use technology
Cons:
- Range is less than some of the competition
- Not as much power as other small EVs
- Slower charging speeds than some rivals though 2024 models are faster than 2023
