2023 Toyota bZ4X FWD XLE - Review by Mark Fulmer
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A Sure Footed Crossover with Instant Torque
Mark Fulmer
Executive Producer, Editor
THE AUTO CHANNEL
From the folks that brought us the Prius, here comes an all electric crossover with a modern styling and a name straight out of Popular Science, bZ4X. And the bZ stands for "beyond Zero" And if that's not acronym-ish enough, the bZ4X is a BEV which is not a beverage but a "battery electric vehicle."
The electric engine puts out 201 horsepower and torque is rated at 196 pound-feet. The range is in the low 250s. EPA-estimated fuel economy for the XLE FWD is 131 MPGe city, 107 MPGe highway and 119 MPGe combined. The recharge rate on a DC Fast charger from 10-80% only takes about 40 minutes, and new bZ4X buyers or lessees will currently get a year of no-cost DC fast-charging using the EVgo network.
The instant torque and terrific handling on the wide tires and low center of gravity gives an agility that elevates the driving experience both in town and on country roads.
The interior feels roomy thanks to good seating and a pair of moonroofs. that come with a power sunshade.
The front seats also feel both comfortable and have good ergonomics and visiblity.
Front Head Room (in.) 38.6
Front Leg Room (in.) 42.1
Front Shoulder Room (in.) 57.8
Front Hip Room (in.) 54.4
The the rear seats are equally roomy and garnered positive feedback from passengers of all ages.
Second Head Room (in.) 37.1
Second Leg Room (in.) 35.3
Second Shoulder Room (in.) 56
Second Hip Room (in.) 44.8
The Cargo space behind rear seat is a very useful 27.7 cubic inches
And fold down the rear seat for a very sizable 56.9 cubic inches
The 12.3" horizontal multimedia touchscreen at the center of the dash is quite user-friendly and includes:
AM/FM Stereo
Auxiliary Audio Input
HD Radio
MP3 Player
Satellite Radio
WiFi Hotspot
Smart Device Integration
Apple CarPlay
Android Auto
Safety abounds with the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 which includes:
Brake Assist
Electronic Stability Control
Daytime Running Lights
Child Safety Locks
Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors
Traction Control
Blind Spot Monitor
Auto-Leveling Headlights
Lane Departure Warning
Lane Keeping Assist
Cross-Traffic Alert
The boldness of the bZ4X instant torque, handling, futuristic styling, and Toyota reliability makes in a must-test drive for EV shoppers.