Toyota fans now have a completely electric model added to the range as the industry slowly but relentlessly rolls towards the end of hybrid and internal combustion engines.
After dabbling with an electric version of their RAV4 off-roader in the late 90s and pushing ahead with hybrids and stablemate Lexus electric models, it’s now the time for the Toyota bZ4X; code for beyond-Zero, size-4 and X-suv.
It makes sense, sort of, but a definitive name might have been a better marketing move nevertheless.
However, we have to go with what we are given and assess how it stands up to more established and straightforward named rivals, including an all-wheel-drive badge-engineered version sold as the Subaru Solterra which is nearly identical as it was developed alongside the Toyota bZ4X.
The maker’s first BEV to be built on their latest variable e-TNGA platform will be followed by smaller and larger stablemates in the years ahead.
There are five models currently, priced from just about £43,000 to over £51.500, in Pure, Motion and Vision trim levels.. They share a common 71.4kWh battery and motor producing 201 or 218hp depending on the choice of front or all wheel drive automatic transmission and a buyer must simply decide if they want slightly more range or greater all-weather practicality before signing on the bottom line.
Toyota was among the first manufacturers to embrace electric vehicles and has benefitted from the experience which has allowed it to guarantee the Lithium-ion battery retains at least 70 per cent of its capacity up to 10 years or 600,000 miles, subject to an annual Toyota EV health check.
The powertrain is a straightforward start, select and set off system which you can refine to give more regeneration or adjust for economy, normal or snow conditions with selectable traction control as well. We played around with these and managed to get a range close to 300 miles, but of course individual driving styles will be reflected in the eventual range.
As you’d expect, the acceleration with the motor is brisk and near silent with a noticeably powerful deceleration in the stronger mode which turns it into a single-pedal drive if desired.
Using the assisted pedal, the braking was particularly strong and even with it disengaged the retardation produced fairly good feedback. With the autohold in use the car was effortless in traffic or on slopes.
Steering felt a little lifeless but the turning circle was good and it did not suffer from kick-backs or vibration, but some may find the steering wheel on the small side as well, although this did help with access.
Secondary controls for lights and wipers were close to the spokes but some may bemoan the absence of a rear wiper in slow moving winter traffic. The front pair did a good job clearing the glass and the headlights were strong and beams wide.
Toyota has packed a lot of tech and switches into the spokes, fascia and console and while well marked the buttons were on the small side for our liking, not too easy to see or operate at night either.
They have done a reasonable job with the dials infront of the driver and the central infotainment screen with a lot packed into the displays and selection moved quickly and clearly.
The cabin temperature controls were straightforward and our test car came with a sort of booster system for the feet while the A/C was effective throughout and kept the screens clear, or you could use any of the four powered door windows as well.
We were surprised by the absence of a glovebox and the slender styling of the front door bins which meant any odd items had to live in the back door bins, the central cubby or small trays on the console. Not what we expected in a family car.
Moving to the back of the car, the luggage area was fairly good even before dropping the offset spit seatbacks and you have a useful underfloor recess for the charging cables but little else.
Getting in or out was easy with good leg and headroom throughout but shoulder width was tight in the back for anyone over average size.
The Toyota’s seats were very comfortable. Nicely padded, well shaped and supporting for all but the tallest users with long thighs. The adjustment range on the front pair was good for average sized occupants.
It rode well over all surfaces although you could hear the suspension working away and tyres bumping over potholes or raised tarmac as the absence of engine and transmission noises meant other sources intruded.
With the battery pack located low within the wheelbase the roadholding was very good and the handling felt surefooted with no apparent vices.
The multitude of advanced safety features in the bZ4X from parking to more dynamic and cruising features should keep a driver out of trouble and contribute to a relaxed trip irrespective of traffic conditions and combined with the brisk charging, which is possible, there should be little concern over range anxiety.
In conclusion, the Toyota bZ4X does a reasonable job so long as you pick the best drivetrain and trim level for your bank loan or personal contract but it’s unlikely to set your heart racing.
