All-New 2023 Toyota bZ4X SUV

All-New 2023 Toyota bZ4X SUV

Posted on April 6, 2023

• bZ4X makes its way to Canadian dealers this Spring with a starting MSRP of $44,990
• Electric SUV offers a bold design with premium finishes.
• bZ4X offers impressive AWD capability with an X-mode system
• Accelerating Toyota’s global commitment toward carbon neutrality

“Toyota is a leader in electrified vehicle sales - in Canada and around the world. The new Toyota bZ4X adds to our already impressive lineup of diverse vehicle offerings available to a variety of Canadian drivers. More, the battery-electric bZ4X also completes Toyota’s robust portfolio of electrified models - including self-charging hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles,” said Cyril Dimitris, Vice President, Toyota Canada Inc. “More than a BEV, the bZ4X is a capable and versatile SUV, featuring an all-new, all-wheel-drive system for added all-weather confidence. As such, the bZ4X is a vehicle designed to offer Canadians a new, advanced, zero-emissions choice in Canada’s largest market segment.”

Going Beyond

bZ4X is the first Toyota vehicle to be launched under the bZ series, with more bZ vehicles on the horizon intending to elevate the BEV segment for years to come. “bZ,” which stands for “Beyond Zero,” was developed with human-centricity at heart, meaning it hopes to provide more than a mobility solution but also an innovative space for customers.

bZ4X joins an extensive lineup of Toyota electrified vehicles that accounts for 28% of Toyota Canada’s total sales volume last year. These include hydrogen fuel cell electrics, hybrids, plug-in hybrids and now battery electric vehicles. Toyota envisions a future in which carbon neutrality is achieved through a portfolio of products with advanced, alternative-fuel and zero-emission powertrain technologies.

Toyota plans to expand to around 70 electrified models globally by 2025. This future lineup will feature 15 dedicated BEVs, including seven carrying the bZ (Beyond Zero) brand moniker. This diverse portfolio of electrified products will help propel Toyota toward its goal of carbon neutrality by 2050. Globally, Toyota has put more than 20 million electrified models on the road – with a CO2 emissions reduction affect equivalent to the CO2 emissions reduction of over 5.5 million BEVs. Over the next nine years, Toyota will invest $70+ billion in carbon-neutral vehicles as a whole, with the target to launch 3.5 million BEVs globally in 2030.

Unique Design with a Familiar SUV-Feel

For the all-new bZ4X, the engineering team looked to challenge conventions with a unique, futuristic design without losing the familiarity commonly found in SUVs. Based on the design theme “hi-tech and emotional,” the all-new, all-electric SUV is fit for a multifaceted lifestyle – offering originality that stands out in an urban cityscape coupled with SUV-like power to take on the adventurous outdoors.

Offered in two Front Wheel Drive (L, LE) and two All-Wheel Drive (XLE, XLE Technology Package) grades, the bZ4X is unconventionally sensible. In terms of size, the bZ4X sits squarely in the middle of the very popular compact SUV segment. It is 94 mm longer than the RAV4, at 4,690 mm, with a 160 mm longer wheelbase at 2,850 mm. It is 50 mm lower than RAV4 at 1,650 mm high, and 5 mm wider at 1,860 mm. bZ4X offers a comfortable 1,138 mm of legroom for the front seat and 1,212 mm for passengers in the rear seat. The cargo volume is 784 litres behind the second row, and when larger items need to be hauled, rear seats can be folded down.

The bZ4X features a profile that is balanced and sleek, with dynamic character lines that flow from front to rear. The axis is lowered toward the tires to create a dynamically flowing silhouette that takes full advantage of the long-wheelbase (which is further enabled by the under-floor placement of the battery).

Viewed from the front, the design places emphasis on the corners to achieve a futuristic aesthetic, unlike conventional vehicles which emphasize the center due to radiator cooling needs. The result is an aero-dynamic look, with the curved shape of the front bumper expressing a unique look and feel. The headlamps further highlight the contours of bZ4X, with the main lamps arranged directly under the signature lamps to create a smart and vigorous impression.

From the rear, bZ4X exudes a powerful stance, thanks to the upper three-dimensional structure (including the cabin and rear combination lamps) and the lower three-dimensional structure (the trapezoidal back door and bumper) being vertically "interlocked.” Eyes are drawn to the corners and taillamps.

Aesthetics aside, bZ4X’s design is functional, such as the low hood height for superior forward driver visibility or the ducktail spoiler and lower diffusers that offer aerodynamic performance and also create a unique look.

The 2023 Toyota bZ4X is offered in a range of 10 body colours – including four two-tone schemes which feature a black roof. These are matched with one of two interior colour palettes. Colours are dependent on trim level.

Relaxation in Any Seat

The bZ4X cockpit embodies a new generation of mobility with a design that helps the driver keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel. Thanks to the BEV-dedicated platform, the engineering team achieved an extra-wide interior cabin that results in a spacious, quiet and relaxing space for driver and passengers alike. The cabin allows for ample legroom that’s equivalent to a large sedan for both front and rear seats and copious side-to-side space in the rear – further contributing to a feeling of home-like comfort.

Piano-black parts are featured throughout the vehicle, enhancing the quality feel, while a satin material is found on the higher grade to exude a feeling of luxury. A soft-touch material is also added to the dashboard to add an additional level of comfort.

For interior color options, the 2023 bZ4X is offered in Black Fabric for the L and LE grades, Softex®-trimmed +Fabric Seat in Black for the XLE grade, and options of Softex®-trimmed in Black or Softex®-trimmed in Light Gray for the XLE with Technology package.

With the roominess one would expect from an SUV, the placement of surrounding elements is also engineered with purpose. The unique instrument panel and precision-placed MID screen expands the vehicle’s feeling of space while also emphasizing meter visibility to help keep driver’s sight lines up and on the road.  Soundproofing glass and wind-noise reduction features provide a quiet refuge from the world outside. The available fixed panoramic roof provides a feeling of openness to bring the outside environment into the vehicle when needed and a power sunshade to keep it out when not needed.

The hub of the cockpit is positioned around a shared centre console that functions like a table with storage for a smartphone with available wireless charging coupled with a transparent lid. The accessible USB ports (A and C) offer power and connection points in convenient locations. The door handles are a specialized shape designed to be more ergonomic, making it easier to grip.

Functional Design for Intuitive Tech

The interior styling of bZ4X offers premium finishes and is designed to make everything easily accessible, from the USB ports to the all-new multimedia system.

The cockpit design allows the multimedia system to be centre stage. bZ4X offers the all-new Toyota Multimedia system designed and engineered by Toyota’s North American Connected Technologies team. It features a 12.3-inch touch screen on the LE and XLE grades and a standard 8-inch touchscreen for the L grade and provides a wide range of enhanced connectivity and convenience features, including being Over-the-Air (OTA) updatable. Users can interact with the new system’s design through intuitive touch and voice-activated controls. With an included three-year trial, the latest Connected Service, Drive Connect, gives access to Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation, and Destination Assist. With Intelligent Assistant, simple phrases like “Hey Toyota” awaken the system for voice-activated commands to search for the directions, find Points of Interest (POI), adjust audio controls, change the cabin temperatures and more. Cloud Navigation is the available onboard navigation solution that utilizes the cloud to download the latest available map, traffic, and routing information.  To ensure you have the most up-to-date search capabilities, POI search is provided by Google Points-of-Interest data. Destination Assist also gives access to 24/7 live agent assistance to locate your next destination.

The new Toyota Multimedia allows for dual Bluetooth phone connectivity, with support for standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility.

For those looking for an enhanced audio experience the bZ4X comes available with a JBL® Premium Audio system with 9 speakers including an 8-channel HiD 800-watt amplifier and 9-in. subwoofer.

Each bZ4X (LE grade and above) comes with a host of additional standard Connected Services. Safety Connect includes an Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), 24/7 Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Locator and Collision Assistance with a 3-year trial service. Service Connect offering drivers the capability of receiving Vehicle Health Reports, Maintenance Alerts and reminders with up to a 5-year trial.

With the Toyota app, users can stay connected to their bZ4X (LE grade and above) with the newly enhanced Remote Connect service with an included 3-year trial service. bZ4X owners can activate their headlights, horn alert, buzzer, and hatch unlock features. The remote climate features include the ability for in-cabin temperature controls including remote activation of the available seat heaters/ventilators, steering wheel heater, defroster, and the ability to schedule a timer to activate in a daily routine. For added convenience the bZ4X is the first Toyota to also incorporate an enhanced remote vehicle climatization feature. The new enhancement allows for drive-off capability after remotely enabling the climate control system.

With the bZ4X XLE with Technology package, drivers also have access to the available Toyota-first Digital Key that is a feature of the Remote Connect service. Owners can now share vehicle access with ease. Making it simple to lock, unlock and start the vehicle by smartphone for the owner and up to seven friends and family members all through the Toyota app.

Remote Charging capabilities are also included with Remote Connect on the bZ4X which includes the ability to check charging status, start/stop charging with a vehicle that is already plugged in, and even edit charging schedules, allowing for enhanced controls of the bZ4X’s charging capabilities. The Toyota app also provides an easy-to-use map to find charging station locations near you or along your upcoming road-trip.

Electrified Powertrain with Truly Electric Performance

The bZ4X offers the performance you’d expect from a capable SUV, coupled with a longer wheelbase and an expansive silhouette that achieves the smooth and fun driving performance inherent in an all-electric vehicle.

Thanks to the e-TNGA dedicated platform, driving the bZ4X is fun and engaging. Due largely in part to the maximum torque available at the first RPM. No torque ramp-up, no power bands– just throw-you-in-the-back-of-your-seat power.

Offered in both Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD), the all-electric bZ4X produces an output of 201 hp for FWD models and 214 hp for AWD models. And with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 7.5 seconds for FWD and 6.9 seconds for AWD, the bZ4X offers instantaneous torque.

The FWD models provide an NRCan test methodology estimated total driving range of up to 406 km when fully charged and under ideal conditions, while the AWD models provide an NRCan test methodology estimated range of up to 367 km when fully charged and under ideal conditions. The NRCan test methodology estimated fuel economy for the FWD models is 1.8 Le/100 km in city driving; 2.2 Le/100 km in highway driving, and 2.0 Le/100 km in combined city/highway driving. The NRCan-test methodology estimated fuel economy for AWD models is 2.1 Le/100 km in city driving; 2.5 Le/100 km in highway driving, and 2.3 Le/100 km in combined city/highway driving.

Impressive driving performance is due in part to the bZ4X being built on the BEV-dedicated e-TNGA platform, a first for Toyota. Through this platform, bZ4X achieves a low center of gravity and greater rigidity thanks to the high-capacity Lithium-Ion battery pack placed flat under the floor. The engineering team aimed to achieve the performance typically offered in small SUVs, along with smooth and powerful driving performance one would expect from an electric vehicle. Impressive handling is also due in part to the battery cross-framing structure which adds to overall vehicle rigidity. The adoption of a lightweight body structure with sections of high tensile steel, reinforced frame components around the battery pack and a dynamic suspension also contributes to the agile responsiveness of bZ4X.

In addition, an accelerator pedal creates a smoother feel when accelerating and decelerating coupled with an intelligent throttle with slip suppression provide impressive control on slippery roads. When Regenerative Braking Boost Mode is selected, it reduces the frequency the brake pedal must be depressed, helping to reduce the burden on the driver. Regeneration boost can be switched ON/OFF using a switch on the center console.

The engineering team also focused on features that helps optimize energy-saving and cruising range for year-round driving. In addition to aerodynamic design choices and body weight reduction efforts, the following systems and equipment were adopted to reduce energy consumption, especially power used for heating in cold climates:

• Heat pump system for both heating and air-conditioning
• Available seat and steering wheel heaters
• Available front-seat radiant foot-and-leg heater (first for Toyota)

All-Wheel Drive with X-MODE®

When you combine the impressive driving performance of bZ4X with a new AWD system with X-MODE®, an available standout feature for bZ4X AWD models and a Toyota first, you get an exhilarating, yet comfortable, driving experience suited for everyday driving and off-pavement exploration. Coupled with Multi-terrain Select, the new AWD system with X-MODE® can be used in two modes to tackle slippery and snowy surfaces: Snow/Dirt Mode and Snow/Mud Mode.

Engage Snow/Dirt Mode with X-MODE® to enhance vehicle stability and improve traction on slippery, dirt surfaces. For unpaved and bumpy roads, engaging Snow/Mud Mode applies the brakes on spinning wheels to produce a limited-slip differential (LSD) effect for additional traction. This mode also tackles softer road surfaces covered by heavy snow, providing more vehicle stability by automatically positioning the tires to slip in a way that clears away snow or mud. And in downhill situations that require the drive to apply heavy braking, Downhill Assist Control helps maintain a constant speed to allow the driver to concentrate on steering.

Another impressive feature of the AWD system is Grip-Control, a low-speed system that leverages motor drive power modulation to achieve capable off-road performance during turns. This feature was developed as an added X-MODE function to determine road surface characteristics and maintain a constant speed to prevent slipping on rough roads, allowing the driver to focus more on steering.

Charged Up

When it comes to powering up bZ4X there are plenty of options, including 120V outlets, 240V chargers as well as DC fast-chargers. All bZ4X models are equipped with a J1772/CCS1 (Combined Charging System (CCS)) socket, which allows for both home and public charging. The 6.6 kW onboard charger allows the bZ4X to charge to full in about 11 hours with a Level 2 charger either at home or at a public charger (at optimal outside temperatures).

Driver Assist and Safety

Toyota’s all-electric SUV, bZ4X is the first to feature the latest Toyota Safety SenseTM safety package (TSS 3.0). This system has been enhanced by expanding the detection range of the millimeter wave radar and monocular camera. Toyota has enhanced the performance of each function and added new functions to assist in normal driving conditions. For example, the Pre-collision system has been enhanced to offer Low-Light Cyclist Detection, Daytime Motorcyclist Detection and Guardrail Detection. Also, lane recognition is enhanced to add improved functionality while in Lane Tracing Assist mode. The goal of TSS is designed to help prevent or mitigate accidents, further reduce traffic fatalities and injuries, and ease the burden on drivers.

Blind Spot Monitor and a new safety feature called Safe Exit Assist, a Toyota First, are also standard on LE grade and above. This system helps support avoidance of collisions between an open door and/or occupants who have exited and vehicles approaching from the rear. As part of the Blind Spot Monitor functionality, if the system detects an approaching vehicle and judges that there is a possibility of a collision with an opened door or passengers who have exited, an indicator in the outer mirror is lit to audibly alert the occupants. Even with the door closed, the indicator will be lit if the system judges that there is a possibility of a collision if the door is open.

Another key focus for the engineering team was increasing the visibility from the driver’s seat to provide a more comfortable, attentive experience. This was achieved with a Top-Mounted Meter strategically placed in a location with the goal to reduce the number of times the driver takes their eyes off the road.  The parallax angle of the meter also extends the perspective for the driver when viewing, also achieving a reduced response time between the road and the MID. Even the steering wheel is more ergonomic - the spoke width has been reduced, achieving excellent grip comfort, and the diameter of the wheel is smaller to allow for a meter layout that requires minimal eye movement.

In terms of battery safety, Toyota added many measures to help protect cell integrity thanks to the design and a multiple monitoring system that is intended to provide safety and security of the vehicle’s battery system.

This includes:

• A meticulous production process that helps reduce contamination of battery components to help bolster battery durability
• Redundant monitoring of battery voltage, current, and temperature designed to detect signs of abnormal heating to maintain optimal battery temperature and help prevent cell damage
• Utilization of a high-resistance coolant circulation system is designed to help prevent fire from short circuits even in high battery load conditions due to repeatedly switching between high-speed driving and rapid charging
• Integration of the high-capacity battery pack within the floor of the body frame structure is designed with protection in mind in the event of a collision

Making The Grade

Canadian drivers will be able to choose from several grades of the bZ4X, as follows:

The 2023 Toyota bZ4X L (starting MSRP: $44,990) is a front wheel drive model at a price designed to make it easier for Canadians to get behind the wheel of a battery electric vehicle. This model features 18” alloy wheels, heated and powered exterior mirrors, LED daytime running lights, Smart Key System with Push Button Start, a rear-view camera, and many safety systems, including Lane Tracing Assist and Driver Emergency Stop. This model is available in a solid black body colour with a black interior.

The 2023 Toyota bZ4X LE (starting MSRP: $49,990) is also a front wheel drive model. A step up from the L grade, it adds a 3-year trial for Toyota’s Safety Connect and Remote Connect services, a 12.3” touchscreen display, front seat heater and foot and leg radiant heater, a heated and leather clad steering wheel, foot lights on the exterior mirrors, a power back door, rain sensing wipers, and additional safety system including the Blind Spot Monitor with Safe Exit Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. This model is available in a choice of four body colours: Black, Wind Chill Pearl, Element Silver, and Nautical Blue Metallic. All feature a black interior.

The 2023 Toyota bZ4X XLE (starting MSRP: $54,990) enhances the bZ4X experience with the added confidence of an all-new AWD system with X-MODE. Other performance features of this grade include a three-setting Drive Mode Select system, Multi-Terrain Select, Downhill Assist Control, and Crawl Mode – all of which make this BEV more capable in a variety of driving conditions. Additional features on this trim level include a fixed panoramic roof with shade, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, HomeLink with integrated Garage Door Opener, Qi-compatible wireless charging system, and a tonneau cover. Additional safety technologies include an Intelligent Clearance Sonar system with Rear Cross Traffic Brake. This model features a black interior with a mix of fabric and Softex upholstery and is offered in a choice of nine body colours. Solid palettes include Black, Wind Chill Pearl, Element Silver, Nautical Blue Metallic, Supersonic Red, and Heavy Metal. Two-tone palettes include Element Silver, Wind Chill Pearl, and Heavy Metal – all with black roofs.

The 2023 Toyota bZ4X XLE Technology Package (starting MSRP: $62,750) delivers the ultimate full electric driving experience. This AWD model builds on the XLE trim level, adding a premium JBL Audio system, a 3-year trial for Service, Safety, Remote and Drive Connect, auto-leveling 3-piece headlamps, a kick-sensor for the power back door, Advanced Park, a Digital Key, and a Panoramic View Monitor. Other upgrades include unique 20” alloy wheels, eight-way power-adjustable driver seats, heated and ventilated front seats, illuminated entry system, a rear spoiler, and roof rails. This model features full Softex upholstery and is offered with two interior colour palettes. The black interior scheme is available on all nine body colours available for the XLE trim level, plus a 10th colour: two-tone Supersonic Red with a black roof. The four two-tone schemes plus the Black, Supersonic Red, and Nautical Blue Metallic solid schemes may also be ordered with a light grey interior.

About Toyota Canada Inc.

Toyota Canada Inc. (TCI) is the exclusive Canadian distributor of Toyota and Lexus vehicles. Toyota has sold over six million vehicles in Canada through a national network of 286 Toyota and Lexus dealerships. Toyota is dedicated to bringing safety, quality, dependability and reliability to the vehicles Canadians drive and the service they receive. TCI’s head office is in Toronto, with regional offices in Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal and Halifax, and parts distribution centres in Clarington and Vancouver. Toyota also operates two manufacturing facilities in Canada. Having produced more than nine million vehicles, popular Canadian models built at these facilities include Toyota RAV4, Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus RX 350 and RX 450h hybrid. Recent investments at its facilities in Ontario will allow for increased production of the top-selling Toyota RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid models for the North American market.