For those in search of a comfortable and tech-packed electric SUV, the Toyota bZ4X might just be the answer. Sized similarly to Toyota’s popular RAV4 SUV, the bZ4X enters the competitive electric SUV market, going head-to-head with contenders like the Volkswagen ID4, Nissan Ariya, Skoda Enyaq, Ford Mustang Mach-e, and Kia EV6.
In some ways, the Toyota bZ4X is comparable to a trusty washing machine. Its name might be a mouthful, its appearance modest, and its driving experience not the most exhilarating, but it reliably gets the job done.
The bZ4X exhibits a mixed bag of aesthetics. While certain angles highlight its appealing attributes, such as the stylish front end and distinctive full-width light bar and roof spoiler at the rear, the chunky black body cladding feels somewhat budget-oriented.
Inside the bZ4X, an intriguing design meets plush materials. The driving position is comfortable, and the controls are intuitively placed. However, the placement of the driver display might result in obstructed visibility due to the steering wheel. Curiously, the absence of a glovebox grants additional knee room to front passengers. Instead, an unconventional storage space beneath the center console takes its place, though its visibility to outsiders seems an odd design choice.
The base model of the Toyota bZ4X comes equipped with an 8.0-inch infotainment screen. Opting for at least one trim level higher provides a more impressive 12.3-inch version with sharp and user-friendly software. Furthermore, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration sweeten the deal.
Rear passengers in the bZ4X enjoy ample headroom and generous legroom, even with a minor bump in the floor design.
Unlike the Tesla Model Y or Volvo XC40 Recharge, the bZ4X doesn’t offer storage beneath its bonnet. Moreover, its 452-litre boot capacity falls behind competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 with 527 litres and the Skoda Enyaq with 585 litres.
Official tests indicate that the bZ4X boasts a range between 286 and 317 miles, depending on specifications. Real-world mixed driving scenarios with the higher-consumption AWD version showed an impressive real-world range of about 250 miles.
The Toyota bZ4X enters the market with a recommended retail price (RRP) ranging from £46,110 to £54,950. However, through platforms like carwow, average savings of £4,330 can be achieved. Cash buyers can get started at £42,258, with monthly payments beginning at £458. For those looking into the used market, a used Toyota bZ4X starts at £42,750 on carwow.
In the realm of electric SUVs, the Toyota bZ4X offers a combination of comfort, practicality, and technological finesse. While it may not be the flashiest option, its reliability, range, and value proposition make it a solid contender in the evolving landscape of electric vehicles.
Reporter