2023 Toyota bZ4X is the first Toyota vehicle to utilize the brand-new e-TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform. Made specifically for Toyota electric vehicles, this structure allows for more space than you can feel in the cabin and provides a solid foundation for outstanding driving performance, ride comfort, and stability for the road ahead. Whether helping you navigate through a downpour or hug the curves of a winding road, bZ4X’s available AWD capability gives you the confidence to stay the course. And with the push of a button, X-MODE maximizes bZ4X’s AWD potential. By adjusting drive force, braking, and throttle input, you’ll enjoy its impressive performance in tougher conditions.
EV MOTOR AND IMPLEMENTATION
A front-wheel-drive, single-motor setup is standard and offers 201 horsepower—that output exactly matches the Kia Niro EV and the front-wheel-drive variant of the Volkswagen ID.4. The all-wheel-drive version has two motors, but power increases only slightly, to 215 horsepower. That’s a lot less than the all-wheel-drive ID.4 (295 horsepower) or the all-wheel-drive Hyundai Ioniq 5 (320 hp). In our initial test drive, we noted perky acceleration in both the front- and all-wheel drive versions but you shouldn’t expect to beat any Teslas in a drag race. The bZ4X’s ride is compliant over bumps without feeling overly soft, and the steering has a decent amount of weighting. Regenerative braking can be augmented via a button on the center console, but the bZ4X stop short of offering true one-pedal driving that we’re fond of in other EVs.
CHARGING AND BATTERY POWER
This 2023 Toyota bZ4X has an all-electric range of 250 miles thanks to a 355-volt Lithium-Ion battery. Its capacity is either 71.4 or 72.8 kWh for FWD and AWD bZ4X models. The total power output – stemming from the AC synchronous electric generator – is between 150 to 160 kW (201 to 215 horsepower).
Charge at your home in Costa Mesa or on the go around the Los Angeles metro with an available 240-volt Level 2 charger. It’s fast and easy to recharge, as Irvine drivers can restore 80 percent of this EV’s battery within one hour.
INTERIOR, CONVENIENCE, AND BOOTH
The 2023 Toyota bZ4X has a spacious, airy interior, and the dashboard incorporates a digital gauge display and a 12.3-inch central touchscreen. Wireless smartphone mirroring is standard, and navigation is included for three years, after which it’s available via subscription. The wide center console between the two front seats features standard wireless smartphone charging and open storage underneath, although there’s no glovebox. An optional feature in the Limited is a radiant heating element in the lower dash that warms front-seat riders’ legs. There’s also no frunk, and the rear cargo hold is 26 to 28 cubic feet (versus 38 for the RAV4).
IN-VEHICLE INFOTAINMENT AND INTERCONNECTIONS
All 2023 Toyota bZ4X models come standard with a large 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability as well as a 7.0-inch digital gauge display. The system is fairly well-connected with cloud-based navigation, an on-board Wi-Fi hotspot, and wireless smartphone charging all included. A six-speaker stereo with SiriusXM satellite radio is standard but buyers can opt for an upgraded, nine-speaker JBL stereo system on the Limited trim.
PROTECTION AND DRIVER-ASSISTANCE ASPECTS
Like several other Toyota models, the 2023 Toyota bZ4X will come standard with a suite of driver-assistance features including pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keeping assist, and automated emergency braking. For more information about the bZ4X’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
PHOTOS
FULL SPECIFICATIONS
Vehicle Type: front- or front- and mid-motor, front- or all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon
PRICE
XLE, $43,215; XLE AWD, $45,295; Limited, $47,915; Limited AWD, $49,995
POWERTRAIN
Front Motor: permanent-magnet synchronous AC, 107 or 201 hp, 124 or 196 lb-ft
Rear Motor: permanent-magnet synchronous AC, 107 hp, 124 lb-ft
Combined Power: 201 or 214 hp
Combined Torque: 196 or 248 lb-ft
Battery Pack: liquid-cooled lithium-ion, 63.4 or 65.6 kWh
Onboard Charger: 6.6 kW
Transmissions, F/R: direct-drives
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 112.2 in
Length: 184.6 in
Width: 73.2 in
Height: 65.0 in
Passenger Volume: 94 ft3
Cargo Volume: 26–28 ft3
Curb Weight (C/D est): 4300–4500 lb
PERFORMANCE (C/D EST)
60 mph: 6.5–6.9 sec
1/4-Mile: 15.2–15.6 sec
Top Speed: 110 mph
EPA FUEL ECONOMY (MFR’S EST)
Combined/City/Highway: 102–119/112–131/92–107 MPGe
Range: 222–252 mi
