2023 Toyota bZ4X Limited: Toyota's First Full EV

Toyota was the leader in electrification since it debuted the Prius hybrid in 2000. However, when it came to full electrification, the brand seems to have drug its feet, only now offering its first full EV and partnering with Subaru to do so. The new 2023 Toyota bZ4X Limited AWD we have here shows Toyota's future in personal transportation. While not groundbreaking in any imagination of the segment, this all-electric SUV offers a range of features that make it a viable option within the EV compact SUV segment.

The bZ4X Limited AWD is powered by dual electric motors, which provide a combined output of 214 horsepower and 248 lb.-ft. of torque. The power is delivered to all four wheels through an all-wheel-drive system with X-MODE® to enhance its off-road capability. Allowing the driver to select between Normal, Snow/Dirt, and Deep Snow/Mud drive modes, the X-MODE is stolen straight from the partnership with Subaru.

The bZ4X is equipped with a range of safety features, including full-speed radar adaptive cruise control and Toyota Safety Sense™ 3.0. TSS 3.0 offers a pre-collision warning system with pedestrian detection which will give drivers an audio and visual warning before applying automatic emergency braking if no action is taken by the driver. Other driver aids include lane departure warning with steering assist, lane tracing assist, traffic sign recognition, and automatic high beam headlights.

Inside the cabin, the bZ4X Limited boasts a unique 7-inch LCD instrument cluster that sits up high near the windshield acting as a pseudo-HUD. This design is taken from the new Prius and will take some getting used to. I had to make sure the steering wheel (also taken from the Prius) was low enough as to not obstruct my view of the screen. For infotainment purposes, there is a 12.3-inch Toyota audio multimedia system with a JBL audio system that does a fine job, while wireless Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay® compatibility make it easy to stay connected on the go. Qi wireless phone charging and USB charging ports are also included, ensuring that your devices never run out of power.

The fixed panoramic roof gives the impression of dual panes thanks to the structural support splitting the view above, while the multi-LED projector low- and high-beam headlights make sure you can see where you're going. The panoramic view monitor gives you a 360-degree view of your surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces simple.

The bZ4X Limited AWD is also equipped with heated and ventilated front seats with a 2-person memory driver seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a heated steering wheel, ensuring your comfort in any weather condition. The power lift gate makes loading and unloading easier than a manual lift gate, while the proximity key with push-button start and digital key capability make it easy to get in and go.

The bZ4X Limited AWD boasts an EPA-estimated 102 MPGe (if that means anything to you) and an EPA-estimated 222 miles of range. In our time with EVs in this region of the US, we found this to be enough range for local commuting, but a tough sell for us to completely replace our gas-powered vehicles for EVs.

The starting MSRP of the bZ4X Limited AWD is $48,780, adding all the options on our test vehicle we saw an as-tested MSRP of $52,432. This is on the more affordable side of EVs but still slightly more than you would pay for a well-equipped RAV4 Prime.

The bZ4X makes for a nice entry into the EV world, though it may not stand out in any particular way. We enjoyed our time with it but would benefit from having one for more than just an afternoon. We will reserve further opinions until that time.