Overview: 2023 Toyota bZ4X

Toyota is making a comeback in the electric vehicle market with the introduction of the 2023 bZ4X crossover. This all-electric SUV stands out from Toyota's gasoline-powered SUVs with its edgy and unique styling. Unlike the RAV4 EV, the bZ4X is being sold at Toyota dealerships nationwide. It is available in both front- and all-wheel-drive models, with the former capable of delivering up to 252 miles of driving per charge. The bZ4X joins the ranks of other non-luxury electric SUVs like the Chevrolet Bolt EUV, Ford Mustang Mach E, Hyundai Kona Electric, Kia Niro EV, Tesla Model Y, and Volkswagen ID.4. However, the bZ4X falls short in terms of real-world highway range, putting it at the back of the pack in our testing. The bZ4X was co-developed with the Subaru Solterra and the two models are almost identical. However, the Subaru comes standard with all-wheel drive and is priced higher than the bZ4X.

Price and Variants: 2023 Toyota bZ4X

Toyota is introducing a new vehicle and nameplate for 2023 called the bZ4X, which will first be available in ZEV states in the spring and later nationwide in 2022. The bZ4X will be offered in two trim levels, the XLE and Limited, with the option of a single motor and front-wheel drive or dual motors and all-wheel drive. Upgrading to the dual motors and all-wheel drive will cost an additional $2080 for either trim level. The bZ4X comes standard with a variety of features, including a panoramic glass roof, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Assist. The Limited trim level includes additional features such as a motion-activated power liftgate, a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, a multi-view camera, 20-inch wheels, and Softex faux-leather upholstery. The Limited trim level is worth the extra expense for those who desire these niceties, but the standard front-wheel drive powertrain is suitable for most buyers. In terms of pricing, the XLE trim level starts at $43,335, while the Limited trim level starts at $48,035.

Power and Performance: 2023 Toyota bZ4X

The Toyota bZ4X comes with a standard front-wheel-drive and a single motor, delivering 201 horsepower. This power output is comparable to that of the Kia Niro EV and the front-wheel-drive Volkswagen ID.4. The all-wheel-drive model, on the other hand, has two motors that only provide a slight power boost to 215 horsepower. This is lower than other all-wheel-drive electric vehicles like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 (320 hp) and the Volkswagen ID.4 (295 hp). During our initial test drive, we found the acceleration to be lively in both the front- and all-wheel drive models. However, the bZ4X isn't designed to outpace Tesla vehicles in a drag race. The most powerful dual-motor variant was able to reach 60 mph in 6.4 seconds, which is respectable but not particularly thrilling. The bZ4X's ride is comfortable over bumps without being too soft, and the steering is well-weighted. Regenerative braking can be adjusted using a button on the center console, but the vehicle does not offer true one-pedal driving, which is a feature found in other EVs that we appreciate.

Range, Charging and Battery: 2023 Toyota bZ4X

The bZ4X vehicle offers two powertrain options with nearly identical batteries: a 63.4-kWh pack for the single-motor and a 65.5-kWh pack for the dual-motor. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates the range for the front-wheel-drive single-motor models to be 242/252 miles (Limited/XLE), while the all-wheel-drive models range from 222/228 miles. However, when tested on the highway, the dual motor model fell short with a range of only 160 miles. Although, if you primarily drive in the city, the range may not be a significant issue for you. It's worth noting that this result ties with the Nissan Leaf for the lowest highway range among electric vehicles (EVs). The onboard 6.6-kW charger can recharge the battery in 9 hours using a Level 2 supply. If you use a DC fast-charger, Toyota claims that the battery can reach an 80 percent charge in under an hour, with peak charging rates of 150 kW for front-wheel-drive models and 100 kW for all-wheel-drive models. Additionally, buyers receive one year of free charging at EVgo locations.

Interior: 2023 Toyota bZ4X

The bZ4X boasts a roomy and breezy interior with a digital gauge display and a 12.3-inch touchscreen integrated into the dashboard. For three years, drivers can access navigation as a standard feature, with the option of continuing through a subscription service. The broad console located between the two front seats offers an open storage compartment and standard wireless charging for smartphones, while omitting the presence of a glovebox. The Limited model includes an optional radiant heating element situated in the lower dashboard to provide added warmth for front-seat passengers. However, the car does not come with a frunk and provides a cargo space of 26 to 28 cubic feet, which is smaller compared to the RAV4's 38 cubic feet.

Infotainment and Connectivity: 2023 Toyota bZ4X

The bZ4X models have an impressive range of infotainment and connectivity features that come as standard. The large 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen is highly functional and user-friendly, and it includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. Additionally, the vehicle comes with a 7.0-inch digital gauge display that provides critical information about the car's performance and status. The bZ4X is designed with connectivity in mind, and it boasts a variety of features that allow drivers to stay connected on the go. The cloud-based navigation system is highly accurate and reliable, making it easy for drivers to find their way even in unfamiliar areas. The on-board Wi-Fi hotspot ensures that passengers can stay connected to the internet at all times, while the wireless smartphone charging feature means that drivers can keep their devices powered up without the need for cables. The bZ4X also comes with a six-speaker stereo system that includes SiriusXM satellite radio. For those who want an even more immersive audio experience, the Limited trim offers an upgraded nine-speaker JBL stereo system. With so many high-quality infotainment and connectivity features, the bZ4X is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to stay connected and entertained while on the road.

Safety and Warranty: 2023 Toyota bZ4X

Similar to other Toyota models, the bZ4X incorporates an array of driver-assistance features that enhance safety. These features include automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning with lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. For more details on crash-test results, the NHTSA and IIHS websites provide useful information. The bZ4X also provides warranty and maintenance coverage that is comparable to its competitors. However, Toyota surpasses the industry standard for included maintenance coverage and electrical component warranty. The details of the coverage are:

• Limited warranty of three years or 36,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty of five years or 60,000 miles
• Electrical component warranty of eight years or 100,000 miles
• Complimentary maintenance coverage of two years or 25,000 miles

These features ensure that the bZ4X is a reliable and safe electric vehicle for its drivers.