Is the Toyota bZ4X a Better Buy Than a Toyota RAV4?
Toyota’s best-selling model is the popular RAV4 compact SUV. The SUV is a favorite among consumers because of its practicality and affordability. Times are changing, and Toyota now offers several hybrid and plug-in hybrid models. The automaker is rolling out a new electric SUV as well. Is the Toyota bZ4X a better buy than the Toyota RAV4?
The Toyota bZ4X is the SUV of the future
Whether we like it or not, the global market and U.S. legislation all point to the future of the industry being electric vehicles. Automakers are clearly aware of this shift as they are producing new electric vehicle nameplates. Toyota has led the charge and actively pursued more sustainable fuel solutions for decades.
Toyota began production of the Prius hybrid vehicle in late 1997. Decades later, hybrids have become ubiquitous, and EVs are on the rise. It’s fitting that Toyota plays a major role in the electrification of the automotive industry. What better way to help promote electric vehicles than producing an electric SUV with the potential to become a best seller?
The Toyota RAV4 is the most popular small SUV
The Toyota RAV4 may not be the best small SUV option on the market, but it’s been the best-selling SUV for many years. The RAV4 is known for the value it provides and its longevity. It can last for over 200,000 miles.
The RAV4 has made its mark on the industry. It competes against popular models like the Honda CR-V and emerges as victorious (from a sales standpoint) year after year. The RAV4 comes in many different configurations, including hybrid options, and offers trims designed for off-roading. Today, there’s even a plug-in hybrid version of the RAV4, the RAV4 Prime.
The Toyota RAV4 small SUV may have been Toyota’s cornerstone for several years, but it’s time to pass the baton. The bZ4X is Toyota’s new cornerstone. The brand’s electric future, as well as its new EV lineup will be built upon the success of the bZ4X nameplate.
The bZ4X’s specs aren’t particularly extraordinary, but the RAV4 has proved that a vehicle doesn’t have to be the best in its segment to be the most popular. Will the popularity of the RAV4 gain the 2023 Toyota bZ4X some fans because of the EV’s lineage?
The Toyota bZ4X is impressing critics
Toyota bZ4X reviews have been overwhelmingly positive thus far. A review from Road Show by CNET refers to the bZ4X as a “comfortable commuter”, a description that can also be applicable to the RAV4. The reviewer claims the bZ4X has a smoother ride quality than Kia and Ford electric vehicles.
The electric SUV isn’t as quick as some rivals, and its driving range is average. According to Car and Driver, the bZ4X starts at $43,215. It has a max range of 252 miles. This electric SUV has the potential to become just as popular as the RAV4, if not more popular in the years to come.
