Toyota bZ4X extended trial

author: FutureCar Staff    

The Toyota bZ4X is a new electric SUV that competes with models like the Nissan Ariya, Skoda Enyaq iV, and Tesla Model Y. It is offered in both front-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive versions, with the latter having an additional electric motor for the rear wheels and more power. The battery capacity of all versions is 64kWh, which is slightly smaller than its competitors. As a result, the bZ4X has an official range of 317 miles in the front-wheel-drive version and 259 miles in the top-spec all-wheel-drive Vision model.

However, Toyota is not sitting idle and is working on developing electric models with even longer ranges. For now, the bZ4X is their first battery-powered EV for Europe. In fact, I have one as my next company car.

Although the range of the bZ4X in real-world use might be closer to 200 miles, it should be sufficient for my daily driving and occasional long journeys. I will mainly charge it overnight at home, but if needed, I can use a public rapid charger that can provide a 10-80% top-up in about half an hour at the bZ4X's peak charging rate of 150kW.

My bZ4X, in the range-topping Vision trim, comes with a generous list of features including heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, keyless entry, a foot-operated electric tailgate, adaptive cruise control, and a panoramic glass roof. The seats are upholstered in light grey synthetic leather, although this option is no longer available and black is the only choice.

FutureCar Staff