12 Facts About the Toyota bZ4X

Toyota has been a leader in hybrid technology for decades, but when it comes to fully electric vehicles, it has taken a more cautious approach. That changes with the Toyota bZ4X, the brand’s first mass-market battery-electric vehicle (BEV) that is not powered by hydrogen (unlike the Toyota Mirai). This all-electric compact SUV brings Toyota’s reputation for reliability into the EV space while offering cutting-edge technology and a modern design.

Here are 12 essential facts about the Toyota bZ4X that you should know:

1. Toyota’s First Dedicated All-Electric Vehicle

While Toyota has long been a leader in hybrid and hydrogen fuel-cell technology, the bZ4X is the company’s first globally available electric vehicle (EV) built from the ground up as a BEV. It is the first model under Toyota’s “bZ” (Beyond Zero) sub-brand, which is dedicated to pure electric vehicles. Yes, we agree that the name is difficult to remember and does not exactly roll off the lips.

2. Shares a Platform With Subaru

Toyota and Subaru co-developed the bZ4X and the Subaru Solterra, both based on Toyota’s e-TNGA platform for electric vehicles. Subaru’s influence is notable in the available all-wheel-drive system, which improves on-road performance. However, we advise against using this vehicle for off-road activities, except for light-duty adventures.

3. Two Battery Sizes and Up to 252 Miles of Range

The Toyota bZ4X offers two battery options, depending on drivetrain configuration:

• Front-wheel-drive (FWD) model: 71.4-kWh battery
• All-wheel-drive (AWD) model: 72.8-kWh battery.

Both versions use lithium-ion battery packs developed for long-term durability. Toyota even claims the battery is designed to retain 90 percent of its capacity after 10 years. Given that this is the first all-electric model from Toyota, time will tell.

See Also — 15 Things We Like About the 2025 Toyota Tundra

4. Standard Front-Wheel Drive, Available All-Wheel Drive

The bZ4X comes standard with a single-motor, front-wheel-drive (FWD) setup, producing 201 horsepower and 196 pound-feet of torque.

• The dual-motor, all-wheel-drive (AWD) version increases power to 214 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque.
• The AWD model also includes X-MODE, a feature developed with Subaru for enhanced traction in snow, mud, and steep terrain.

5. Sharp, Futuristic Design

The bZ4X has a bold and modern design that departs from traditional Toyota styling. Key features include:

• Sleek, aerodynamic shape with a sloping roofline.
• Thin LED headlights and a closed-off front grille.
• Black cladding around the wheel arches for a rugged SUV look.
• Available two-tone paint schemes for added style.

6. Spacious Interior With a Tech-Focused Cockpit

Inside, the bZ4X has a minimalist, tech-driven interior. Highlights include:

• 7-inch digital gauge cluster positioned above the steering wheel.
• 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Wireless charging pad and multiple USB-C ports.
• Available panoramic glass roof for increased openness.
• Generous passenger and cargo space, with up to 27.7 cubic feet of cargo room behind the second row.

7. Advanced Toyota Safety Sense 3.0

The bZ4X comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, Toyota’s latest suite of driver-assist features, including:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection.
• Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist.
• Lane Tracing Assist.
• Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
• Safe Exit Assist, which warns passengers if they’re about to open a door into oncoming traffic.

See Also — We Drove the Hybrid-Only 2025 Toyota Camry

8. Multiple Charging Options

Charging the bZ4X is straightforward, with several options:

• Level 1 (120V home outlet): Slowest option, mainly for emergency use.
• Level 2 (240V home or public charger): Full charge in approximately 9 to 11 hours.
• DC Fast Charging: Can charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in about 30 minutes (FWD model with CCS connector).

Early reports have indicated that the bZ4X AWD model exhibits slower fast-charging speeds compared to competitors. It was observed that it took 7 hours and 20 minutes to charge from 38 percent to 100 percent.

9. Steering Yoke (Initially Offered, Then Removed)

Toyota initially intended to offer a yoke-style steering wheel like Tesla’s in some markets, but due to mixed feedback and technical challenges, it was excluded from the North American market. The bZ4X now features a traditional round steering wheel with electronic power steering, which can be adjusted to sit very low if preferred.

10. No Frunk (Front Trunk)

Unlike some EVs, the bZ4X does not have a front trunk (frunk). Instead, Toyota prioritized crash safety and aerodynamics, using the front area for essential components. While this might be a downside for those expecting extra storage, it helps maintain Toyota’s focus on durability and reliability.

11. Toyota’s Battery Durability Promise

Toyota is so confident in the bZ4X’s battery longevity that it claims the pack will retain 90 percent of its capacity after 10 years of use. This is achieved through advanced battery management software and Toyota’s reputation for reliability.

See Also — Presenting the 2024 Toyota Mirai

12. Eligible for Federal and State Incentives

Depending on location, the bZ4X may qualify for:

• State and local EV incentives.
• $7,500 lease incentives, as Toyota’s EVs do not currently qualify for the federal EV tax credit when purchased outright. The federal incentive is limited to EVs built stateside.

It should be noted that Toyota is expected to expand its bZ (Beyond Zero) lineup with additional electric vehicles in the coming years. We also advise checking out the Lexus RZ, a luxury version of this EV.

Concluding Remarks

The Toyota bZ4X marks a major step forward for Toyota in the electric vehicle space. With modern styling, a competitive range, standard advanced safety tech, and Toyota’s reputation for reliability, it’s a compelling choice for buyers looking to transition into EV ownership.

However, charging speed limitations and the lack of a frunk might deter some buyers who are cross-shopping with Tesla or Hyundai/Kia’s EV models. Still, for those who trust Toyota’s engineering and durability, the bZ4X could be a solid entry into the electric SUV market.

2025 Toyota bZ4X Specifications

See Also — Out and About With the Toyota Corolla Cross Sport

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