10 Reasons Why The Toyota bZ4X Is An Underrated Compact EV

The bZ4X is the first model to be launched under Toyota’s new line-up of Battery-Electric Vehicle (BEV) series. Launched in the 2023 model year, the bZ4X presents Toyota’s all-new battery-electric platform, co-developed with Subaru. It comes standard with an efficient battery equipped with a powerful electric motor and offers high-graded technical features. The starting price tag is also competitively lower, further authenticating the bZ4X’s tag as one of the sensible electric SUVs available for sale in the U.S. Despite its high-tech features and reliable performance, the bZ4X is underrated in the compact EV category. Competing against the other compact electric SUVs in the 2023 model year, here are 10 reasons why the 2023 Toyota bZ4X deserves more recognition.

Related: 10 Ways A Toyota Stout EV Could Beat The F-150 Lightning And Silverado EV

1 Toyota’s Electric Flag Bearer… By Default

Toyota is recognized as the largest automaker in the world, dominating the global sales of both gas-powered and hybrid vehicles. It’s been almost 25 years since it introduced gasoline-electric hybrid technology into the automotive industry with the Toyota Prius. Since then, Toyota has been the global front-runner in hybrid tech. But, other competitors have already taken the lead in the electric vehicle scene, with car companies like Ford and Volkswagen already possessing successful electric vehicle platforms. Considering this crisis, Toyota introduced its first mass-produced electric vehicle – and the only EV for now – designed for the global EV market, the 2023 Toyota bZ4X.

2 The BZ4X’s Batteries Are Temperature-Controlled

The main concern for most EV manufacturers today can be traced down to their temperature-sensitive batteries. The batteries are highly sensitive to extreme temperatures, including both cold and hot weather conditions. Toyota has solved this major issue by using temperature-controlled batteries in the bZ4X. This technology uses a water-cooling system that keeps the battery in the ideal state in extreme temperatures. With this battery system, the bZ4X ensures stable battery performance under severe conditions.

Related: 10 Things To Know About The Toyota Prius

3 A Decent Range Of 250+ Miles On A Full Charge

The 2023 bZ4X offers two available Lithium-ion battery (355V) options to select from-one with a rating of 71.4 kWh and the other with a 72.8 kWh capacity. The Front-Wheel-Drive (FWD) variants use the 71.4 kWh-rated battery, while the All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) models use the 72.8 kWh battery. Based on the powertrain type, the bZ4X’s trims cover different ranges on a full charge. For the bZ4X XLE trim, the battery provides an EPA-estimated 252 mileage rating on a full charge for the FWD variant, with the EPA-estimated rating being 228 miles for the AWD configuration. And the Limited trim receives an EPA-estimated 242 mileage rating with the FWD, while the AWD variant produces an EPA-estimated 222 mileage rating on a full charge.

2023 Toyota bZ4X – Battery Specifications:

4 It Boasts A Smart Exterior

One of the top-tier features of the bZ4X is its striking exterior design. The exterior showcases a futuristic appearance with a smart presence and an aerodynamic shape. The front view exhibits a smart dynamic design with sufficient height and ground clearance. The Toyota logo between the standard LED headlights adds to the car’s minimalist shape. The lower front bumper vents and a fully covered underbody, along with the sleek character lines enhance the aerodynamic look. The rear section resembles the front-end design with the LED tail light clusters being connected via a red light strip above the Toyota logo. Based on the trim level, the bZ4X is available in five exterior colors to select from:

• Black
• Heavy Metal
• Supersonic Red
• Wind Chill Pearl
• Elemental Silver Metallic

2023 Toyota bZ4X Exterior Dimensions

Related: 10 Things That Make The Toyota RAV4 Prime Better Than Any EV

5 No Dearth Of Creature Comforts Inside The Cabin

Toyota’s bZ4X accommodates a modern, vibrant design with intensive attention to detail. This starts right at the cockpit with a spacious front cabin, holding the tech-loaded dashboard along with the leather-trimmed steering wheel. In the interior, the seats along with the top section of the dash panel and door inserts are covered with soft foam fabric, adding extra comfort to the ride.

2023 Toyota bZ4X Interior Dimensions

The optional panoramic moon roof bestows an ambient atmosphere, viewing a blue sky during the day and a moonlit skyline at night. The premier interior is additionally highlighted with the optional ambient lighting system, based on the trim levels. Depending on the trim, the interior is available in black and light gray colored materials.

6 The bZ4X Offers Adequate Power

With the e-TNGA architecture, the bZ4X utilizes an AC synchronous electric motor that is positioned based on the trim level. For the FWD models, the primary motor generates 201 horsepower and 196 pound-feet of torque that is available instantaneously. The dual-motor AWD variants feature an additional asynchronous electric motor on the rear axle that produces a maximum output of 214 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. This allows the AWD versions to reach 0 to 60 mph in under eight seconds. On top of this, based on the trim variants, the bZ4X offers different drive modes that include:

• Eco
• Normal
• Boost Mode With Regenerative Braking
• Snow Drive Mode
• X-Mode With Snow/Dirt, Deep Snow/Mud, and Grip Control Mode

2023 Toyota bZ4X Specifications

Related: Why You Should And Shouldn’t Buy The Toyota Crown

7 Top-Tier Technology On Offer

The all-new bZ4X offers a high-grade suite of onboard technology, scattered throughout its modern interior. Its interior resembles the futuristic approach of the exterior, with functionality almost entirely controlled by these high-tech features. Installed on the center console is the 12.3-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia Touchscreen display offering controls for multiple features. For an improved driving experience, a supportive Multi-Information Display (MID) is also mounted above the steering wheel This screen configuration controls the standard navigation system, all telematics, entertainment, driver-assistance systems, and vehicle settings.

For powering purposes, the SUV is equipped with a Qi Wireless charging system and suitable USB ports for easy charging. It also offers an impressive multimedia setup installed with an exclusive JBL Premium Auto sound system with 9 speakers (with subwoofer), along with other interactive features like the Wireless Apple CarPlay and Wireless Android Auto. Other useful connectivity features include:

• Remote Connect
• Wi-Fi Connect
• Safety Connect
• Drive Connect
• Service Connect.

8 Impressive Set Of Safety Features

Toyota has equipped the bZ4X with the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0). The TSS 3.0 comes standard with sophisticated detection and control systems, like:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
• Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
• ​​​​Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
• Forward-collision Alert
• Automatic Emergency Braking
• Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
• Lane Tracing Assist
• Road Sign Assist
• Automatic High Beams

The bZ4X is also equipped with other safety features that include:

• Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) With Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Safe Exit Assist
• Panoramic View Monitor
• No Cost Maintenance Plan and Extended Roadside Assistance
• Front and Rear Parking Assist With Automatic Braking (PA w/AB)

Related: The Real Difference Between Toyota And Lexus

9 Free And Fast Recharging Across The U.S.

All available versions of the bZ4X are enabled with both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) fast-charging capabilities. These models are equipped with suitable connector sockets according to the charging level, enabling both home and public charging. With the Level 1 120-Volt charging, the bZ4X takes about 50 hours for full charging. The Level 2 240-Volt charging system fully charges the bZ4X in around 9.5 hours. For fast recharging at public charging stations, the SUV is enabled with a Level 3 DC Fast-Charging system. With the DC Fast Charging system, the FWD trims can be charged from low battery to 80 percent in around 30 minutes, while the AWD variants take about 60 minutes to charge up to the same level. As standard for all bZ4X users, Toyota also provides one year of unlimited free charging periods at all EVgo-owned and operated public charging stations across the US.

10 It Is Priced Competitively

Compared to most of its immediate competitors in the North American small-size SUV EV category, the 2023 Toyota bZ4X boasts a competitive price tag. The main rivals of the bZ4X include:

• 2023 Subaru Solterra
• 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E
• 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5
• 2023 Kia EV6
• 2023 Nissan Ariya
• 2023 Tesla Model Y
• 2023 Volkswagen ID.4

Their base trims are priced at around $43,000 on average: the 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E at $42,995, the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5 at $41,450, the 2023 Kia EV6 at $42,600, the 2023 Nissan Ariya at $43,190, the 2023 Tesla Model Y at $47,490, the 2023 Volkswagen D.4 at $38,995, and the 2023 Subaru Solterra at $44,995.

In comparison, the entry-level XLE trim of the bZ4X is cheaper, starting at $42,000 and the higher Limited trim starts at $46,700.

2023 Toyota bZ4X vs Competition