The 2024 Toyota bZ4X Is Better Despite Having a Weak Range
Some electric vehicles get off to a rough start. For example, the Toyota bZ4X had a recall because its wheels were falling off. But this little rugged-looking SUV didn’t give up or go to its grave. The 2024 Toyota bZ4X is back with a few notable improvements.
2024 Toyota bZ4X: What’s new?
The 2024 Toyota bZ4X now has a standard dual-voltage charging cable that can be used at Level 1 and Level 2 charging stations.
Plus, with a purchase or lease, you get a full year of free charging from the EVgo network. But because this SUV is imported from Japan, it’s not eligible for the $7,500 Federal tax credit.
The standard XLE trim gets an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and a power-operated rear liftgate.
The Limited trim sweetens the deal with standard Advanced Park software. It allows you to park the bZ4X without using your hands. It can handle parallel and perpendicular situations for you.
Both models come with a new Multi-Infomation Display with crucial stats such as range, estimated time to charge to 80%, and the charge percent while charging.
Pricing is up from $43,350 to $44,420, including the destination fee. This is a $1,070 increase for the XLE trim. The Limited trim starts at $48,530. There are still only two trim levels.
Also, while the trims got a few extra standard goodies, they didn’t get any extra power or range. The models with the single motors and front-wheel drive get 201 hp and 196 lb-ft of torque.
Upgrading to the dual-motor setup with AWD increases the power to 214 hp and 248 lb-ft of torque. The hp increase isn’t very attractive but the boost in torque is beneficial.
Models with FWD have an EPA-estimated range of 252 miles on a single charge and adding AWD drops the range to 228 miles. The Limited model can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.5 seconds while the XLE model makes it there in about 7.1 seconds.
Charging the battery to 100% with a Level 2 charging station takes about nine and a half hours. A DC fast charging station can replenish the battery from 15 to 80% in roughly an hour.
While the Toyota bZ4X is more convenient than before, it’s still a little weak with a limited range. But it could get an upgraded powertrain soon.
