Toyota bZ4X Pure EV Long(ish) Term Review: Mainstream Excellence

Toyota's debut into the realm of pure-electric production vehicles has finally reached New Zealand with the bZ4X. Aiming to compete with renowned electric SUVs, we're taking an extensive two-month look at this innovative car to unravel its strengths and shortcomings.

Riding on the specialized EV platform called e-TNGA, a collaborative effort with Subaru, the bZ4X ventures beyond Toyota's hybrid legacy. The nomenclature might be a tongue twister, but "bZ" signifies beyond zero, denoting Toyota's new brand for zero-emissions vehicles. With nine more bZ models anticipated globally, the "4" indicates its size, aligning it with the RAV4, while the "X" signifies its crossover SUV nature.

Despite lacking four-wheel drive, the single-motor Pure FWD model, starting at $72,990, boasts a 71.4kWh battery and a front-mounted eAxle with a 150kW/266Nm motor. Its 0-100km/h time of 7.5 seconds aligns with competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Volkswagen ID.4.

In a market where electric SUVs are gaining traction, the bZ4X holds its ground in terms of value. Although once eligible for the Clean Car Discount at $66k in 2023, it's now priced at $73k, still competitive when compared to alternatives like the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Tesla Model Y, and Volkswagen ID.4.

Our initial impressions of the bZ4X reveal a Toyota BEV that epitomizes smoothness, ease of driving, and practicality. Sporting alloy wheels with aerodynamic covers, it offers a comfortable yet brisk driving experience. The firm ride contributes to robust and precise handling, even with the compact 18-inch wheels.

Inside, the bZ4X boasts a Lexus-like 12.3-inch screen and a futuristic main instrument panel. The long wheelbase provides ample seating space, and the 452-litre boot, though smaller than the RAV4, remains practical with a nearly flat-folding rear seat for extended cargo.

While our early-build sample version has a few quirks, such as charging and infotainment system issues, Toyota has acknowledged these and is investigating. Notably, our experience with the bZ4X involves assessing its range, a topic of controversy abroad. Despite the 71kWh battery being slightly smaller than its competitors, Toyota claims a range of 535km using the NEDC test.

Real-world testing will determine the accuracy of this claim, especially considering the car's updates in October 2023. These updates aimed to enhance climate control efficiency, reduce battery buffer, and improve charging speed beyond 80%. Our test car showcases these improvements, sporting an "BEV" label on the charge port.

In conclusion, Toyota's bZ4X appears promising, presenting a distinctive and brand-aligned mainstream BEV-SUV. As we embark on an extended exploration into 2024, we eagerly anticipate a comprehensive real-world assessment of its capabilities. Stay tuned for more insights into this groundbreaking electric SUV.

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