The 2023 Toyota bZ4X is a relative newcomer to the electric SUV market. While its reviews are generally positive, they aren’t exceptional. Electric SUVs have drawbacks, such as range, especially when it comes to outdoor adventures. For those that like to take the road-less-traveled, an electric vehicle could create range anxiety. If you run out of power in the middle of nowhere, you may have to have your car towed back to civilization.

EVs have had a slow start in the SUV market. The bZ4X may have a few drawbacks, but it does stand out in one particular area. This feature gives it an edge over other electric SUVs in the same price range. Let’s take a look at where the bZ4X shines.

Pricing and features available on the 2023 Toyota bZ4X

The base MSRP range for the Toyota bZ4X is $42,000 to $48,780. It is available in two trim levels: XLE and Limited, with either a single motor and front-wheel drive or dual motors and all-wheel drive.

The front-wheel-drive Toyota bZ4X model has 201 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque, while the AWD gives you 214 hp. The bZ4X can go from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.5 seconds with AWD and 7.1 seconds with FWD. 

According to Car and Driver, a panoramic glass roof, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and safe exit assist are all included as standard features. A motion-activated power liftgate, heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, a multi-view camera, 20-inch wheels, and Softex faux-leather upholstery are among the Limited’s additional features.

One feature on the bZ4X makes it a top pick in its class

Ground clearance is tricky with EVs because of the placement of the battery under the car, making them often unsuitable for off-road adventuring. However, the Toyota bZ4X has the best ground clearance in its class with an impressive 8.1 inches, according to Edmunds. This is way more than its competitors, including the Ioniq 5 at 6.1 inches, the Hyundai Kona Electric at 6.7 inches, and the Bolt at 5.5 inches.

A lower ground clearance can help with aerodynamics and make the vehicle more efficient. However, owners will appreciate the higher ground clearance of the bZ4X. After all, it is an SUV, not a sports car. You will probably want to take it on some adventures where the road might not be paved.

Does the Toyota bZ4X have the highest ground clearance among EVs?

However, the Toyota bZ4X does not have the highest ground clearance of any EV on the market. The BMW iX and Rivian R1S have higher ground clearances. The BMW iX has a ground clearance of 8.8 inches, and the Rivian R1S has a ground clearance of up to 14.5 inches, thanks to an adjustable suspension. However, they are luxury models, and you will pay considerably more for them.

There are other options for those needing more ground clearance, such as the F-150 Lightning, but Ford had to shut down pre-orders for them for this year due to consumer demand. Dealers are cashing in by marking up prices as much as 50% in some cases. So, you’ll either have to wait an unknown amount of time to secure an F-150 Lightning or pay a ridiculous price for one.

The EV market is beginning to see a lot of new designs and options from car manufacturers. For now, the bZ4X offers something that others in its class don’t: impressive ground clearance. Eventually, other car manufacturers will improve this feature in their electric SUVs. However, for now, the bZ4X stands alone among others in its class with the most ground clearance.