Toyota, a pioneer in hybrid technology with its Prius lineup, has finally stepped into the all-electric vehicle market with the 2024 Toyota bZ4X. As their first commercial EV, the bZ4X carries significant expectations, especially considering Toyota’s expertise in hybrid powertrains. Having test-driven numerous EVs this year, including standout models like the Kia EV9 and Cadillac Lyriq, my benchmark for Toyota’s initial foray into electric cars is set high. The bZ4X Limited trim, which I evaluated, starts at $47,180, offering premium features over the base SE trim (starting at $43,070). While it presents a lower EPA-estimated range of 236 miles, it promises a unique driving experience that warrants a closer look.
2024 Toyota bZ4X: Exploring the Upsides of Toyota’s First Electric Car
Striking and Modern Design
(Image credit: Future)
In the realm of electric cars, standing out visually is almost a prerequisite, and the Toyota bZ4X achieves this with its sleek, futuristic design. The compact crossover SUV features sloping, angular lines that create a bold and contemporary aesthetic, all while maintaining a spacious interior and ample trunk space. The optional two-toned paint scheme further accentuates its stylish appeal, ensuring it captures attention on the road. Adding to its modern vibe are the distinctive projector headlights, stacked vertically to create a unique, almost three-dimensional visual effect. This design language positions the bZ4X as a forward-thinking model within the Toyota Electric Cars portfolio.
Immersive Cockpit-Style Driver’s Seat
(Image credit: Future)
Stepping inside the bZ4X, the driver’s seat immediately stands out with its cockpit-inspired design. Unlike traditional layouts where the dashboard cluster is positioned close to the steering wheel, Toyota has placed it further back, creating a noticeable gap. This design choice evokes the feeling of piloting a jet, adding a unique and engaging element to the driving experience. While some drivers might find the close proximity of the steering wheel slightly confining, the overall effect of this cockpit-style setup is both visually appealing and contributes to a sporty feel, differentiating it from other Toyota electric cars.
Convenient and Intuitive Shifter Placement
(Image credit: Future)
A common point of frustration in many electric vehicles is the placement of the shifter, often awkwardly positioned near the steering wheel. However, the bZ4X smartly positions the shifter in a more ergonomic and accessible location, directly below the climate controls on the central middle console. The rotating knob design makes switching between drive and reverse effortless, while a dedicated button is used for park. This implementation is a notable improvement, preventing accidental engagement of other steering wheel controls like windshield wipers, and enhancing the overall user-friendliness of Toyota electric cars.
Hands-Free Foot-Activated Liftgate
(Image credit: Future)
Practicality is key in any vehicle, and the bZ4X Limited includes a convenient foot-activated liftgate. This feature proves invaluable when your hands are full, such as when carrying groceries. Instead of fumbling for keys or buttons, a simple tap of your foot near the bumper’s center activates the liftgate, providing easy, hands-free access to the trunk. This thoughtful addition enhances the daily usability of the bZ4X, making it a practical choice among Toyota electric cars.
Advanced Automated Parking Assist System
(Image credit: Future)
While confident drivers may not always need it, the 2024 Toyota bZ4X Limited offers Toyota’s Advanced Park technology for those who appreciate parking assistance. During testing in a clearly marked parking lot, the system performed flawlessly, requiring no driver intervention. Once initiated, the driver selects the desired parking spot, and the bZ4X autonomously steers itself into the space. This feature adds a layer of convenience and technology, particularly appealing in urban driving scenarios and showcasing the technological advancements in Toyota electric cars.
Generous Rear Seating and Trunk Space
(Image credit: Future)
Passenger comfort is well-addressed in the bZ4X, with ample legroom in the rear seats ensuring a comfortable ride for all occupants. The second row mirrors the front with mesh fabric seats for added cushioning, and dedicated climate controls located in the center console further enhance the passenger experience. Unlike some crossover EVs that compromise on trunk space, the bZ4X offers practical cargo capacity. Demonstrating its utility, it easily accommodated a pull-up station picked up from Facebook Marketplace with the seats folded down, highlighting the bZ4X’s blend of passenger comfort and cargo versatility within the Toyota electric cars lineup.
2024 Toyota bZ4X: Addressing the Downsides of Toyota’s EV
Limited Range Compared to Competitors
(Image credit: Future)
Given Toyota’s expertise in maximizing range in hybrid vehicles, expectations were high for the bZ4X’s range capabilities. However, its EPA-estimated range of 236 miles from its 71.4 kWh battery is somewhat underwhelming. Compared to other EVs in its class with similar battery sizes, such as the Genesis GV60 boasting 294 miles, the bZ4X falls short. Despite this, the bZ4X demonstrates impressive efficiency, achieving around 3.1 mi/kWh in mixed driving and an even better 4.1 mi/kWh in highway tests. Efficient driving habits can extend the perceived range, but for its price point, the bZ4X’s range is a notable limitation in the competitive electric cars market.
Overly Intrusive Driver Monitoring System
(Image credit: Future)
The bZ4X incorporates an infrared camera to monitor driver attention, a feature intended to enhance safety. However, the system’s implementation in the bZ4X can be perceived as overly intrusive. Constant notifications and alerts in the dashboard cluster can become distracting, especially for drivers who prefer a more relaxed driving posture, such as holding the steering wheel at the 12 o’clock position. The system’s insistence on firm steering wheel grip for smart cruise control to remain engaged further adds to the feeling of being constantly monitored, which might detract from the driving enjoyment for some.
Absence of Additional Driving Modes
(Image credit: Future)
Many modern electric cars offer selectable driving modes to tailor the driving experience, providing options like sport mode for enhanced performance or eco mode for maximizing efficiency. While the bZ4X offers an ECO mode, it lacks additional driving modes to adjust responsiveness and performance. Although the bZ4X offers adequate acceleration, the absence of a sport mode to unleash more power or adjust brake and accelerator sensitivity is a missed opportunity. Providing varied driving modes could enhance the bZ4X’s appeal and cater to different driving preferences within the Toyota electric cars range.
Conclusion: Toyota’s Electric Car Journey with the bZ4X
The 2024 Toyota bZ4X represents Toyota’s initial stride into the competitive electric vehicle market. It showcases several compelling aspects, including a striking futuristic design, a unique cockpit-style interior, practical features like a foot-activated liftgate and automated parking, and comfortable passenger and cargo space. However, it also faces challenges, particularly in terms of its range, which is less competitive compared to other EVs in its class, and a driver monitoring system that some may find overly sensitive. The absence of additional driving modes further limits customization of the driving experience.
As Toyota expands its lineup of electric cars, the bZ4X serves as a foundational model, highlighting Toyota’s commitment to electrification while also presenting areas for improvement in future Toyota electric cars. For consumers considering Toyota electric cars, the bZ4X offers a blend of innovation and practicality, albeit with certain compromises to consider in the rapidly evolving EV landscape.
