Autos

2024 Toyota bZ4X: Engineered for Electrifying Exhilaration

The 2024 Toyota bZ4X is the Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) that’s made to electrify, blending bold, modern styling with tech-laden features in an extremely capable platform. Available in XLE and Limited grades, it delivers all the fun of electric driving to the daily commute or next round of errands. Its smartly styled SUV package comes in a choice of Front- or All Wheel Drive, has seating for up to five, ample rear cargo space, and premium touches throughout.

For model year 2024, the Toyota bZ4X adds new features focused on convenience and charging capability. A dual–voltage charging cable capable of Level One and Level Two charging* is now standard for both the XLE and Limited grades. The State of Charge percentage when charging, the estimated charge time to 80-percent, and estimated vehicle range will now be displayed via its fully digital Multi-Information Display (MID). Charging times in cold weather conditions have been improved for DC fast charging. Enhancements have been made to the battery thermal system, including the addition of a water-to-water heat exchanger and heating adjustment valve to increase battery temperature, allowing for faster DC charging in cold temperatures. 

The bZ4X’s refined interior also adds comfort, convenience, and tech for model year 2024. The XLE grade adds to bZ4X’s already refined features with an 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat and power rear lift gate for easy access. The Limited grade gets a tech boost with Advanced Park now standard, designed to assist the driver with hands-free parking when parallel parking or perpendicular parking.

As an added convenience, customers who purchase or lease a new 2024 Toyota bZ4X will also get one year of complimentary charging at EVgo public charging stations nationwide. Customers will be able to use the Toyota App on their mobile device to sign up for this offer, locate EVgo stations and initiate complimentary charging for their new bZ4X.

The 2024 Toyota bZ4X will have a starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $43,070 on the XLE grade and $47,180 on the Limited grade, excluding Dealer Processing and Handling fee. Models are expected to start arriving at U.S. Toyota dealerships in January 2024.

* Level Two charging requires a 240V outlet.

Unique Design with a Familiar SUV-Feel

The bZ4X engineering team looked to challenge conventions with its design. It balances unique, futuristic style while offering a familiar SUV package. Based on the design theme “hi-tech and emotional,” bZ4X is fit for a multifaceted lifestyle – offering originality that stands out in an urban cityscape coupled with the power of AWD for all-weather capability and confident on-road driving dynamics.

In terms of size, the bZ4X sits squarely in the middle of the compact SUV segment. It is 3.7 inches longer than the RAV4, at 184.6 inches, with a 6.3-inch longer wheelbase at 112.2 inches. It is 2.0 inches lower than RAV4 at 65.0 inches high, and 0.2 inches wider, at 73.2 inches. bZ4X offers a comfortable 42.1 inches of legroom for the front seat and 35.3 inches for passengers in the rear seat. Cargo volume is 27.7 cubic feet behind the second row. 

The profile of the bZ4X 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.

Viewing the bZ4X head-on, the design places emphasis on the corners to achieve a futuristic aesthetic. The Toyota hammerhead design, which consists of long, thin signature Daytime Running Lights that seamlessly blend with the hood, create a smart and vigorous impression. The result is an aero-dynamic appearance, with the curved shape of the front bumper expressing a unique look and feel.

Viewed from the rear, bZ4X exudes a powerful stance, thanks to its “interlocked” trapezoidal design between the rear lamps, back door and bumper. Eyes are drawn to the corners and taillamps. The bZ4X’s design is a blend of form and function. The low hood height provides superior, forward driver visibility and the ducktail spoiler and lower diffusers offer aerodynamic performance while also creating a unique look.

The 2024 bZ4X offers a variety of exterior color options, with Black as a standard color and Heavy Metal, Supersonic Red, Elemental Silver Metallic, and Windchill Pearl as extra-cost colors on both grades. On the Limited grade, Heavy Metal, Supersonic Red, Elemental Silver Metallic, and Windchill Pearl can be combined with a black roof for an extra sporty appearance.

Interior Space Designed for Comfort and Cargo Functionality

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 for both front and rear seats as well as copious side-to-side space in the rear – further contributing to a feeling of home-like comfort.

For interior color options, the 2024 bZ4X is offered in Softex®/Fabric-trimmed in Black for the XLE grade, and options of Softex-trimmed in Black or Softex-trimmed in Light Gray for the Limited grade.

With the roominess one would expect from an SUV, the placement of surrounding elements is also engineered with purpose. Soundproofing glass and wind-noise reduction features provide a quiet refuge from the world outside. The standard 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. Piano-black parts are featured throughout the vehicle, enhancing the quality feel, while a satin-finished material is found on the higher Limited grade to exude a feeling of luxury. Premium details continue to the dash of all grades, which are wrapped in a soft-touch material.

The hub of the cockpit is positioned around a shared center 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 them easier to grip.

Electrified Powertrain, Electrifying Performance

The bZ4X offers the off-road 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 a horsepower rating of 201 for FWD and a horsepower rating of 214 for AWD. And with an estimated 0-60 acceleration time of 7.1 seconds for FWD and 6.5 seconds for AWD, the bZ4X offers instantaneous torque.​

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 architecture, 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 utility typically offered in small SUVs, along with smooth and powerful driving performance one would expect from an electric vehicle.

The bZ4X’s handling prowess 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 coupled with a dynamic suspension contribute to the agile responsiveness of bZ4X. An intelligent throttle feature provides a smoother feel when accelerating and decelerating and slip suppression provides impressive control on slippery roads. When driving in the Regenerative Braking Boost Mode and you’re not on the accelerator, regenerative braking will recapture lost energy while coasting, and help slow you down with less reliance on the brake pedal.

The engineering team also focused on features that help 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 Front-seat and steering wheel heaters
  • Available Front-seat radiant foot-and-leg heater

Available All-Wheel Drive with X-MODE®

When you combine the impressive driving performance of bZ4X with an AWD system with X-MODE, an available standout feature for bZ4X AWD-equipped models, 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 (Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud) to tackle slippery or uneven surfaces. In both modes, the system applies the brakes on spinning wheels to produce a limited-slip differential (LSD) effect for additional traction.

Engage Snow/Dirt Mode with X-MODE to enhance vehicle stability and improve traction on bumpy or unpaved roads or certain snow-covered surfaces. Deep Snow/Mud Mode helps to tackle softer road surfaces covered by heavy snow, providing more vehicle stability by allowing the tires to slip in a way that clears away snow or mud. And in downhill situations that require the driver to apply heavy braking, Downhill Assist Control helps maintain a constant speed to allow the driver to concentrate on steering.

Another ingenious feature of the AWD system with X-MODE 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 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 for both home and public charging. All bZ4X models are equipped with a J1772/CCS1 (Combined Charging System) connector, which allows for Level 3 DC fast charging as well as Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging. The included dual-voltage charging cable is capable of both Level 1 and Level 2 charging. Under ideal conditions, the 7.6 kW onboard charger allows the bZ4X to charge from low battery light to full in about 9.5 hours with a Level 2 charger at 240V. Level 2 charging provides approximately 20 miles of range per hour of charge and can fully charge the battery when plugged in overnight.

As an additional Level 2 home charging option, new bZ4X owners can also include a home charging system into the cost of their new vehicle purchase or lease, as they will have the option to purchase a ChargePoint® Home Flex Level 2 charger from participating Toyota dealerships or directly from ChargePoint online. ChargePoint Home Flex is ENERGY STAR® certified and Wi-Fi enabled, can be installed indoors or out, and comes with a 23-foot charging cable to support different parking configurations. Customers can also use resources like Qmerit to locate a certified EV charger installer.

Customers who purchase or lease a 2024 bZ4X also get one year of complimentary charging on the EVgo charging network. EVgo is one of the nation’s largest public fast charging providers, featuring over 950 fast charging locations across more than 35 states. For more information about the EVgo charging network, visit www.evgo.com.

The XLE grade has an EPA-estimated range rating of up to 252 miles on the FWD model and up to 228 miles on the AWD equipped version. The Limited grade has an EPA-estimated range rating of up to 236 miles on the FWD model and up to 222 miles on the AWD model.

Functional Design with Intuitive Tech

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

All grades come standard with a 12.3-inch touchscreen Toyota Audio Multimedia system, designed and engineered by Toyota’s Texas-based Connected Technologies team. bZ4X drivers will be at the ready thanks to a wide range of enhanced connectivity and convenience features, including Over-the-Air (OTA) updates. Users can interact with the system through intuitive touch and voice activation controls.

With an included three-year trial, Drive Connect** gives access to Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation and Destination Assist. With Intelligent Assistant, simple phrases like “Hey Toyota” awakens the system for voice activated commands to search for directions, find Points of Interest (POI), adjust audio controls, change the cabin temperatures and more. Cloud Navigation, the available onboard navigation solution, utilizes the cloud to download the latest available map, traffic and routing information. To ensure users 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 the next destination.

The Toyota Audio Multimedia system allows for dual Bluetooth phone connectivity, with support for standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. With further connectivity, the bZ4X has an available Wi-Fi Connect subscription (30 days or up to 3GB) that offers 4G connectivity for up to five devices – turning the bZ4X into an AT&T Hotspot. Adding to the already robust offering of audio playback ability with HD Radio, USB data and a SiriusXM® 3-month trial subscription, Wi-Fi Connect also enables the new Integrated Streaming feature, providing the ability to link separate Apple Music® and Amazon Music subscriptions to the vehicle for onboard control.

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

Each bZ4X comes with a host of additional standard Connected Services trials. Safety Connect** includes an Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), 24/7 Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification and Stolen Vehicle Locator with an up to 10-year trial. Service Connect* gives drivers the capability to receive Vehicle Health Reports, Maintenance Alerts and reminders with an up to a 10-year trial.

With the Toyota App, users can stay connected to their bZ4X with Remote Connect** service, included as a 3-year trial. Users can activate headlights, a horn alert, buzzer and unlock the rear hatch. 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.

With the bZ4X Limited grade, drivers also have access to the available Toyota Digital Key**, 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 all through the Toyota App.

Remote Charging** capabilities are also included with Remote Connect trial or subscription 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. The Toyota App also provides an easy-to-use map to find charging station locations near you or along your route.

** 4G network dependent. Subscription required after trial.

Driver Assist and Safety

The bZ4X features Toyota Safety Sense 3.0™ (TSS 3.0), Toyota’s latest suite of safety and driver assistance features. The goal of TSS is to help prevent or mitigate accidents and ease the burden on drivers. This system uses a combination of millimeter wave radar and monocular camera to monitor various driving conditions. This standard suite of features includes a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist. Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, Automatic High Beams, Road Sign Assist, and Proactive Driving Assist.

Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert is standard on all grades. Safe Exit Assist is also standard on bZ4X. This system detects vehicles or cyclists approaching from the rear and judges if there is a possibility of a collision with an opened door or passengers who have exited. Safe Exit Assist will illuminate an indicator in the outer mirror and provide an audibly alert to notify vehicle occupants.

Panoramic View Monitor with Perimeter Scan including 360-degree Overhead View in low-speed drive and reverse, and Curb View is available on the Limited grade. The engineering team strategically placed the Top-Mounted Meter right above the steering wheel with the goal of reducing the number of times the driver takes their eyes off the road.

In terms of battery safety, Toyota added many measures to help protect cell integrity, thanks to the design and a multiple monitoring system intended to protect 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

Going Beyond

The bZ4X was the first Toyota vehicle to be launched under the global bZ series.  The “bZ” in the bZ4X name comes from Toyota’s Beyond Zero vision for the future that aims to achieve carbon neutrality in its products, services and operations and go beyond by finding new ways to make a positive impact on the planet and society.

Toyota’s electrified lineup is helping to reduce carbon emissions to ultimately drive towards the Beyond Zero vision. Toyota believes in the power of choices by offering a full spectrum of electrified powertrains for consumers to choose from, including Battery EV, Hybrid EV, Plug-In EV, and Fuel-Cell EV, and currently offers 14 hybrid electric models, two plug-in hybrid electric models, the bZ4X battery electric vehicle, and the zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell electric Mirai (available in California).

In addition to Toyota’s electrified vehicle lineup, Toyota’s efforts to reach its Beyond Zero vision include a number of different conservation and other initiatives. For more information, please visit: https://www.toyota.com/electrified-vehicles/.

Limited Warranty 

Toyota’s 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation. The Electric Vehicle Driving Components, including the traction battery, are covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Toyota dealers have complete details on the limited warranty. 

Toyota bZ4X also comes with ToyotaCare, a plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance, for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and three years of Roadside Assistance, regardless of mileage. 

About Toyota 

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for more than 65 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our nearly 1,500 dealerships.  

Toyota directly employs more than 49,000 people in the U.S. who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of more than 33 million cars and trucks at our nine manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 10th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 26 electrified options.

Through its Driving Possibilities initiative, the Toyota USA Foundation has committed to creating innovative educational programs within, and in partnership with, historically underserved and diverse communities near the company’s 14 U.S. operating sites. 

For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.

Ben

I am the owner of Cerebral-overload.com and the Verizon Wireless Reviewer for Techburgh.com. My love of gadgets came from his lack of a Nintendo Game Boy when he was a child . I vowed from that day on to get his hands on as many tech products as possible. My approach to a review is to make it informative for the technofile while still making it understandable to everyone. Ben is a new voice in the tech industry and is looking to make a mark wherever he goes. When not reviewing products, I is also a 911 Telecommunicator just outside of Pittsburgh PA. Twitter: @gizmoboaks

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