The all-new Toyota bZ4X is the first model in our beyond Zero family of zero-emission battery electric vehicles. Displayed here in production-ready form, this spacious and comfortable SUV will launch across Europe in 2022.
Its arrival will also introduce a new leasing programme designed to cover the principal aspects of ownership – a one-stop concept that is designed to provide peace of mind for people acquiring their first BEV.
Toyota bZ4X: What are its exterior design features?
The exterior design is sleek, powerful and uncluttered, led by a distinctive hammerhead frontal shape. When viewed in profile, the bZ4X has a low roof and slender A-pillars, while the combination of thick sills and large wheels (up to 20-inch in diameter) express the car’s authentic SUV character. At the rear, the design similarly emphasises the corners, with a distinctive tail light that spans the width of the vehicle.
The design also incorporates aerodynamic elements that manage airflow and contribute to the driving range. These include apertures in the front bumper corners that create smooth air curtains; a full underbody cover; a split roof spoiler and rear ducktail lip spoiler; rear diffuser; and a precisely angled rear screen. The slim lower grille has a shutter that adjusts to channel cooling airflow to the battery and helps reduce wind resistance.
Beneath the surface, the bZ4X is the first Toyota to be built on our new, dedicated BEV platform. Known as e-TNGA, it incorporates the battery as a structural member of the chassis – a feature that creates high body rigidity, a low centre of gravity, and excellent front/rear weight distribution.
What’s it like inside bZ4X?
The long wheelbase has helped us create a spacious, open and comfortable five-seat cabin that has the welcoming ambience of a living room. There is class-leading leg room for all, with a one-metre distance between the front and rear hip points, while the load area offers 452 litres of storage with the rear seats in place.
Adding to the sense of openness and outward visibility is the slim and low-set instrument panel, which allows the seven-inch instrument and information display to sit above the line of the steering wheel, directly in the driver’s forward eye line.
Passenger comfort is assured by an energy efficient heating system that maximises driving range. Rather than a standard air conditioning system, the bZ4X uses a heat pump to warm the car by drawing heat from the external air.
What will the multimedia system be like?
The centrally mounted multimedia platform is our latest and most powerful system, offering a 12-inch touchscreen that gives access to cloud-based navigation. It also provides BEV-specific features such as driving range, driving support and charging station details. The driver can interact with the vehicle by sight, touch and voice, while over-the-air updates provide seamless software upgrades and new services.
Toyota bZ4X: What are its performance credentials?
There are both front- and all-wheel drive versions of the bZ4X. The front-wheel drive model is powered by a 150kW electric motor which produces 201bhp and 265Nm of torque; it offers 0-62mph acceleration in 7.5 seconds and a top speed of 100mph. The all-wheel drive model is powered by two 80kW electric motors – one for each axle – that produce a total of 214.5bhp and 336Nm of torque. Top speed is unchanged but the dash to 62mph is reduced to 6.9 seconds.
We have drawn on almost 25 years of experience in battery technology to ensure the new lithium-ion unit has world-leading quality, durability and reliability. Our confidence in the technology is reflected in an extended care programme that guarantees the battery will still operate to 70% of its original capacity after up to ten years of ownership or one million kilometres (620,000 miles) driven, subject to the customer taking their vehicle to an authorised Toyota service centre for an annual health check.
This is made possible because multiple systems have been put in place to monitor the voltage, current and temperature of each individual battery cell. In a Toyota first, the battery is water cooled, while there are safeguards in the manufacturing process to prevent foreign matter from entering the battery, and further countermeasures to mitigate any material degradation when in use.
What is the the driving range and how quickly will bZ4X charge?
Thanks to efficient motors and energy management, official WLTP data shows that the front-wheel drive Pure model can achieve a driving range of 317 miles (4.3 miles per kWh) from its 71.4kWh battery. For the all-wheel drive bZ4X Motion, the official range is 285 miles (3.9 miles per kWh).
An 80% charge can be achieved in around 30 minutes using a 150kW fast-charging system (CCS2), while an 11kW three-phase on-board charger will be available from the fourth quarter of 2022 to further improve charging performance.
Toyota will operate a programme of rebuilding, reusing and recycling for the battery, ensuring the lifecycle of its components and materials is maximised.
What will the all-electric Toyota bZ4X be like to drive?
The bZ4X is the first production Toyota to offer a steer-by-wire system, though this will be introduced in Europe at a later date. Known as One Motion Grip, it dispenses with the mechanical linkage between the steering wheel and front wheels, instead using electronic means to adjust the front wheel angle according to the driver’s intention.
With no physical connection in the system, not only is legroom improved but unwanted vibration from the tyres is not transmitted through the steering. However, the driver still experiences valuable feedback through independent control of the steering torque, with different drive modes programmed with unique steering characteristics to suit prevailing conditions.
Similarly, the throttle is controlled through a wired rather than mechanical connection. It offers the option of single pedal driving using boosted braking energy recuperation to let the driver accelerate and slow the vehicle using only the throttle pedal.
How capable will the Toyota bZ4X be off-road?
Toyota worked with its development partner Subaru in engineering a new, class-leading BEV all-wheel drive system that draws on the great AWD heritage of both companies. The system uses separate 80kW motors to drive the front and rear axles. X MODE allows the driver to select a drive mode to suit the conditions, with settings for snow/mud; deep snow and mud (below 13mph); and Grip Control for tougher off-road driving (below 6mph). These segment-leading capabilities will help the bZ4X tackle the route ahead with confidence, irrespective of where it leads.
How safe is the new Toyota bZ4X?
The bZ4X is equipped with advanced Toyota T-Mate systems for active safety and driver assistance.
The third generation of Toyota Safety Sense brings new and improved functions to help guard against an even wider range of accident risks. The latest developments strengthen its capabilities as a partner to the driver, progressing closer to the ultimate mobility society goal of zero fatalities and injuries in traffic accidents.
Thanks to upgraded front camera and radar, as well front side radars, the detection range has been expanded and the car’s ability to recognise hazards and obstacles in even more driving scenarios is further improved.
- The Pre-Collision System can detect oncoming vehicles and motorcycles.
- The Intersection Turn Assistance can now identify approaching traffic across two neighbouring lanes instead of just one, as well as detect traffic approaching from the side at an intersection.
- The Emergency Steering Assist system provides additional mild braking to help keep the car within its traffic lane when the driver moves to avoid a hazard such as a pedestrian, cyclist or parked car.
- The Front Cross Traffic Alert system warns of vehicles approaching from either side at a junction.
- The new Safe Exit Assist can help to avoid a collision between an opened door or exiting occupants with vehicles or cyclists approaching from the rear.
Toyota Safety Sense also checks the driver’s well-being with an internal monitor that records their usual driving position and triggers a warning if it detects any deviation that might signal dangerous distraction or the driver being unwell or falling asleep.
What is this new vehicle leasing programme?
Our all-new BEV will be introduced with a completely new approach to vehicle purchasing and the customer’s ownership experience. It is our hope the majority of European sales will be via a new, all-inclusive leasing contract that covers the vehicle, maintenance, wall box charger and access to connected services, including one of Europe’s largest vehicle charging networks.
If customers wish, Toyota insurance can also be included, along with roadside assistance and vehicle accessories.
Charging and roadside assistance
In order to ensure that bZ4X ownership is as stress-free as possible, Toyota is providing all new customers with a complimentary package of benefits.
The first round of benefits cover charging needs. These include a British Gas Centrica EV home charger with standard installation and six months of access to the Toyota Public Charging Network. This network consists of more than 12,000 charging points, all of which are accessible through the MyToyota app.
The second primary benefit is three years of AA Roadside Assistance. This is provided 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, throughout the UK and across 44 European countries.
Information correct at time of publishing
Toyota bZ4X: technical specifications
| POWERTRAIN | FWD | AWD |
| Type | AC synchronous electric motor-generator | |
| Total output (bhp/DIN hp/kW) | 201/204/150 | 214.5/217.5/160 |
| Front motor output (bhp/DIN hp/kW) | 201/204/150 | 108/109/80 |
| Rear motor output (bhp/DIN hp/Kw) | – | 108/109/80 |
| Torque (Nm) | 265 | 336 |
| EV SYSTEM | FWD | AWD |
| Hybrid battery | Lithium-ion | |
| Number of cells | 96 | |
| Rated voltage | 355 | |
| Battery capacity (kWh) | 71.4 | |
| PERFORMANCE | FWD | AWD |
| Max. speed (mph | 100 | 100 |
| 0-62mph acceleration (sec) | 7.5 | 6.9 |
| ENERGY CONSUMPTION | FWD | AWD |
| WTLP combined cycle (miles/kWh) | 4.3 miles/kWh | 3.9 miles/kWh |
| Driving range (miles) | 317 (Pure) | 285 (Motion) |
| EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS | ||
| Overall length (mm) | 4,690 | |
| Overall width (mm) | 1,860 | |
| Overall height (mm, inc. antenna) | 1,650 | |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2,850 | |
| INTERIOR DIMENSIONS | ||
| Interior length (mm) | 1,940 | |
| Interior width (mm) | 1,515 | |
| Interior height (mm) | 1,160 (1,145 with panoramic roof) | |
| Load space volume, including beneath deckboard (l, VDA) | 452 | |
| WEIGHTS | ||
| Towing capacity- unbraked (kg) | 750 |
NB: Details were correct at the time and date of publication
Hello can we still order Premiere Edition? Or no more order taken for this trim?
Hi John, thanks for your question.
The Premiere Edition is not available to order. Please see the available models here: https://www.toyota.co.uk/new-cars/bz4x/build .
Thanks.
Hi
Why is my bz4x showing lesser range now after charging to 90% compared to last month. It is atleast 40miles less. For 90% charge it used to show something closer to 260miles whereas it is showing 220mi now.
Hi Raj, thanks for your question.
Electric driving range depends on a number of factors, such as weather and driving style.
However, if you believe there is an issue with your vehicle, please contact your Toyota Centre so that they can physically inspect it.
Thanks.
I have had a bz4x on order since June 20th 22
When is the earliest I can expect delivery as I can get no information
My last 5 new cars have been Toyota from the same garage and although I know you have had problems with this model I would like to think you could give us some hope or is it better to start trying a different manufacturer that will give feedback as you were always so good at
Best regards
Steven Lee
Hi Steven, thanks for your question.
We understand your frustration and apologise for the inconvenience this situation has caused.
Your Toyota Centre are best placed to provide updates on your order.
Please be assured we are trying to get your bZ4X to you as soon as possible.
Thank you.
I ordered mine about the same time and the dealer is saying Jan/Feb 2023 although they admit they are guessing. I did get a call on Friday saying I could have the FWD version of my Vision pretty much immediately but my other half is insisting I have AWD for the two days every three years when we have a bit of snow settling.
Hi
Has bz4x got thermal heat management system for the batteries.
Where is the electricity coming from for seat warming. Is it from the the 12V battery or from the main traction battery.
Hi Raj, thanks for your question.
Our Technical Team have advised that the 12v battery will power the vehicle systems. The main traction is just exactly that.
Thanks.
I use Apple Car play on my BZ. Is there an option to find a map route specifically for EVs?
When using climate control from the app if not plugged into the home charger, does the energy required power come from the EV batteries thereby diminishing range or from the 12V battery?
Does this same battery power interior lights, alarms, radio/audio, navigation systems, instruments, door locking and onboard computer? Thanks
Hi George, thanks for your question.
Please contact our Connectivity Team regarding your first question. You can find them here: https://www.toyota.co.uk/help-centre/connectivity.
In answer to your second question, our Technical Team have advised that the power will come from the traction battery. The 12v battery powers the other items mentioned.
Hope this helps.
Thanks.
Hi
Picking up my BZ4x early Jan 2023, in relation to Battery % loss when vehicle is not in use can you provide some % figures for 2-3 days and 2-3 weeks pls.
Thank you
Hi Henry, thanks for your order.
Our Technical Team have advised that there are no official figures available for this, as it can depend on a number of factors. However, from a theoretical point of view, leaving the vehicle for 2-3 days should result in no loss at all. In lower ambient temperatures, you may be likely to see a small range drop in the region of 1-2 miles per day. This is due to the temporary effect of cold weather on battery capacity and performance.
In terms of longer term storage, it is generally accepted that there will be some loss due to a phenomenon known as “self-discharging”. This is due to chemical reactions occurring within the battery without any electrical load on the battery, and is something that affects all battery technology, not just the lithium-ion used in our vehicles.
In order to prevent further self discharging, it is also important to not use the app regularly to monitor the state of charge when left for long periods. This is because it will “wake up” the vehicle to send the latest data Over The Air (OTA), and will use more energy over the long term. Also, please do not leave a high voltage charger connected, or the charge port open, when not in use for long periods, since this will discharge the 12V battery.
With this in mind, the Owner’s Manual suggests charging the vehicle at least once per month, if you are going to leave it stored for long periods. This can be viewed on Page 83 of your Owner’s Manual, which can be accessed here: https://www.toyota.co.uk/customer/manuals.
From a battery care point of view, it is also accepted that as a general characteristic of battery technology, long-term storage with a fully charged state (100%) can lead to a decrease in overall capacity long term. This also means that, in theory, the lower the charging limit, the battery life will be longer. Therefore, if you leave the vehicle in storage for a long period, it is recommended to keep the battery charged to 50% or less. Then, when conducting the top up charge once per month, we would suggest setting the charging limit in the customization menu so that the charge stops at 50%.
One final point on this is that the performance of our newly developed battery has been improved, so even if you were to leave it at 100% this would not lead to significant, noticeable deterioration.
Hope this helps.
Thanks.
Hi,
There is a constant online rumour floating about that the car is limited to 2 DC fast charging per day.
I assume this is down to the wording in this Toyota US faq sheet.
https://support.toyota.com/s/article/bZ4X-Charging?language=en_US
quote “To help maintain long-term battery health, DC Fast Charging should be limited to two cycles of charging (Low Light to 80%) per day throughout the year.”
Should does not mean “is” limited. Is there a hard limit built into the car limiting fast charging to 2 per day?
Thanks,
Hi, thanks for your question.
In the USA, the bZ4X AWD is fitted with a CATL battery, with different specifications/performance than the PPES (Panasonic) battery that we have on both FWD/AWD in Europe.
Our Technical Team have advised that the battery can be fast-charged without compromising safety or service life: 80% charge achieved in 30 mins with a 150kW fast-charging system. If you keep fast charging the car on DC for a long journey, you might see the range drop. However, when the car is subsequently fully charged on a slower charger the range should return.
Thanks.
Will the bz4 be coming out with driver side memory seats?
Hi Robert, thanks for your interest.
The bZ4X Vision and Premiere Edition Grade has memory function on the driver’s seat
Thanks.
Gave me a bit of a panic there Robert. According to https://www.toyota.co.uk/new-cars/bz4x/features-and-specs the vision has memory on the driver’s electric seat. Bit miffed about the lack of electric passenger seat (I believe the Solterra has this) and the manual steering column adjustment.
My dealer now has a March date for my car although obviously this could vary. Bearing in mind the Scandinavian reports on range/battery issue (I understand the US have different batteries to the UK, don’t know about mainland Europe), could those who already have a UK spec BZ4X give an update on how they are getting on with their cars with specific reference to range, please?
Motion FWD, using for 2 months, 1800 miles. The real range lies somewhere between the optimistic WLTP numbers and the extremely low ranges deliberately ‘manufactured’ (in my opinion) for on-line click-bait material. For best comparison with other EVs use the WLTP numbers since they are produced for each vehicle using a highly standardised test. My own experience of motorway driving: longest journey on one charge was 203 miles at 8 deg C with heavy rain. Had 20% left in battery when I stopped, so probably could have done around 230-240 miles. Another long journey under worst winter driving conditions( -3 deg C, windy) was 154 miles on a charge with 25% left when I re-charged, so around 200 miles possible. These are real numbers for this time of year- in the summer we can expect to get closer to the WLTP range. Other EVs with equivalent battery size are likely to give similar numbers.
The bZ4X is a great car to drive and, taking into account its specifications and build quality, is still excellent value compared with the competition.
Dave, are you using A/C on your journeys? I’ve been driving my Vision (20″ wheels), FWD, for 3 weeks and am struggling to beat 170 miles equivalent (real) range when factoring % battery used.
But have you also noticed that your indicated range mileage in-car display (and MyT) is about 15%-18% higher than the ‘real’ mileage covered? My 170 miles is ‘real’. The car and MyT says 200 miles, (consistently), I would like Toyota to comment on this.
To try to understand this I have another question for Toyota; I have read the manual wrt to Heating, A/C etc and practised some different settings and it seems the only way it is possible for the in-car display (and MyT) to potentially achieve the higher figures is to have the whole heating system OFF. Tapping any other button, including Auto, Auto ECO, results in the reduced range display as if A/C is on, even though A/C is OFF. And even more confusingly, it also reduces the range by simply turning the fan ON, (also regardless of A/C). Can you advise if I am doing something wrong, or explain, how is it going to be possible to get maximum range if any heating/cooling selection results in a lower range, even if A/C is OFF? Put another way, as I see it, to achieve the higher range figure the whole HVAC system has to be permanently OFF. Is that correct?
Hi Rob, thanks for your question.
To ensure that the vehicle is operating as per intent, our Technical Team have advised visiting your Toyota centre so that they can see exactly what you’re experiencing first-hand.
Actual real-life range is a result of multiple factors. Next to battery capacity and battery recharging generated from deceleration while driving, also usage of the HVAC system, as well as external factors such as outside temperature will influence the energy consumption and available range. The HVAC impact on range is much bigger in cold conditions (typically the winter) than in the summer.
Thanks.
Hi I took delivery of my bz4x some weeks ago infact it was the first on the road in Northern Ireland. I have been told that when the head lights are in automatic and the full beam is on the blue indicator light comes on and when a car approaches the light will dip. When the lights are dipped should the blue indicator lights stay on. Mine does. In every other Toyota I have owened the blue light has always go of. I have been told that the lack of a rear screen wiper is because it has a natural drainage. Not the case NEEDS A REAR WIPER. On a £50.000 + car I expected better
Hi Andy,
Thanks for your feedback.
We will ensure we pass this onto our wider product team.
As for the blue indicator light, if you believe there is an issue with your vehicle, we would recommend getting this checked by your nearest Toyota Centre.
Thanks.
I have had my bz4x Premier since November. The blue light stays on in my car although you do see the actual lights switching off so as not to dazzle oncoming cars. Have never has an oncoming car flash me to say I’m in high beam.
Agree needs a rear wiper. Manual says I have de-icer on wipers but not on my car. Assumed a premier version would have everything but not on mine.
As like others concerned about range for premier which is awd- ordered fwd specially but Toyota sent the wrong one
Graljack
Hi, thanks for your comment.
We appreciate your feedback and will pass this on to our Product Team.
Regarding the blue light, if you believe that there is an issue with your vehicle, please contact your Toyota Centre.
As for your concerns on the range of the bZ4X, we are putting our utmost attention to the concern on the bZ4X range and consumption performance. Actual real-life range is a result of multiple factors. Next to battery capacity and battery recharging generated from deceleration while driving, also usage of the HVAC system, as well as external factors such as outside temperature will influence the energy consumption and available range. In case of bZ4X, the gross battery capacity is 71.4 kWh and we refrain from giving the net value which depends on the external conditions as explained before.
If you would like to discuss this further, please contact our Customer Relations Team. You can find them here: https://www.toyota.co.uk/help-centre#/iframe/https%3A%2F%2Fforms.toyota.co.uk%2Fcontact-us.
Thanks.