The Toyota bZ4X Touring is a significant step forward for Toyota’s electric vehicle lineup. While previous models struggled to stand out in a competitive market, the Touring version combines practicality with genuinely engaging performance, a rare combination among electric estates.
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Addressing the Shortcomings of the Standard bZ4X
The original bZ4X faced criticism for lacking standout features, but the Touring model directly tackles one of its main weaknesses: cargo space. By extending the body style into an estate configuration, Toyota has created a vehicle that competes head-to-head with popular rivals like the Skoda Enyaq and Volkswagen ID.7 Tourer. The Touring boasts 600 liters of boot space, surpassing the Enyaq (585 liters) and nearly matching the ID.7 Tourer (605 liters).
This isn’t just about size; the Touring also benefits from Subaru’s engineering input, resulting in sturdy roof rails for easy cargo mounting. With a towing capacity of up to 1,500kg, this vehicle is designed for active lifestyles.
Performance and Handling: A Step Up
The all-wheel-drive bZ4X Touring delivers a substantial performance boost, with 375 bhp (up from 338 bhp in the standard model) and a 0-60 mph time of just 4.4 seconds. This makes it notably faster than competitors like the Enyaq vRS and ID.7 GTX. Toyota’s torque distribution system ensures balanced handling, minimizing understeer and maximizing grip when cornering.
The Touring also features an X-Mode for off-road capability, though UK models won’t have access to the US-market all-terrain tire option. The single-speed automatic transmission and well-tuned suspension contribute to a surprisingly rewarding driving experience on country roads.
Practicality and Interior Improvements
The Touring addresses another criticism of the standard bZ4X by adding 33mm of rear headroom. While opting for the panoramic sunroof slightly reduces this benefit, the overall cabin space remains generous. The interior features the same design as the standard model, but a new City Moss color option brightens up the previously dour cabin. The Touring retains useful features like dual wireless phone chargers and large cupholders, though the lack of a glovebox remains a notable omission.
The 14-inch touchscreen is intuitive, though its climate controls take up a disproportionate amount of space. The instrument panel, designed to be in the driver’s line of sight, may still be partially obscured by the steering wheel, requiring some adjustment.
Range and Pricing
The Touring models come with the same 74.7kWh battery as the standard bZ4X, with Toyota estimating up to 357 miles of range for the front-wheel-drive version. The all-wheel-drive model is expected to deliver around 300 miles, which is less than some competitors but still acceptable for most drivers.
Pricing has not yet been announced for the UK market, but the bZ4X Touring’s combination of performance and practicality positions it as a potential standout in Toyota’s electric lineup.
In conclusion, the Toyota bZ4X Touring represents a significant improvement over its predecessors. By prioritizing both practicality and driving enjoyment, Toyota has created an electric estate that directly addresses the shortcomings of earlier models and competes effectively with established rivals in the market.
