Toyota’s bZ4X gets major updates for 2025 after what the company describes as a "bumpy" launch three years ago. The electric SUV faced criticism for poor range, slow charging and ride quality issues.
According to Toyota engineers, these aren’t minor tweaks. The updates go far beyond cosmetic changes – they represent a comprehensive overhaul of the hardware, interior and exterior design.
We tested a pre-production model to see if the changes bring the bZ4X up to the level of rivals like the Skoda Enyaq and Ford Explorer.
Updated Design Brings Sharper Look
The front end gets the most obvious changes. Toyota kept the sharp bonnet angle but added a wider, more aggressive lower bumper. New C-shaped headlights connect via a full-width light bar, creating similarities to the upcoming CH-R+.
Less visible updates include new alloy wheels and slimmer door mirrors designed to improve airflow.
The changes drop the drag coefficient from 0.29 to 0.27 – helping efficiency.
Black wheel arches now feature gloss piano black finish instead of matte plastic. This creates a more premium look, especially on dark blue and black cars where the arches blend seamlessly. Though it might look less "rugged," the effect is more coherent overall.
Interior Updates Show Mixed Results
The interior changes don’t all work as well. Toyota removed the previous instrument surround that drew your eye naturally from steering wheel to dials. Now the cramped digital display sits isolated beneath the windscreen with a blank stretch of plastic between it and the driver.
The dashboard is equally problematic – a big, dark slab with only a half-hearted feature line through its center.
Everything’s finished in dark grey or black, creating an oppressively dark cabin that desperately needs color.
The new infotainment system is a clear improvement. Borrowed from the premium Lexus RZ, this 14-inch screen is bigger, brighter and more responsive. It features customizable shortcuts and still includes physical dials for the two-zone air conditioning.
A redesigned center console adds twin wireless charging pads and an easy-to-use drive selector.
Build quality remains Toyota’s usual high standard. Interior space hasn’t changed – rear legroom is generous but the high floor makes adult passengers sit with knees unnaturally high.
Bigger Battery and More Power
The most significant changes happen under the surface. The standard 71.4kWh battery grows to 73.1kWh with more cells and improved capacity. Range increases from 318 miles to a projected 354 miles.
Toyota says inaccurate range predictions are now fixed. There’s also an entry-level 57.7kWh option for front-wheel-drive models with 165bhp.
DC charging stays at 150kW – still behind rivals like the Enyaq and Hyundai Ioniq 5. But AC charging jumps to 22kW with major upgrades for charging in cold conditions.
A new preconditioning system heats or cools the battery. With proper preconditioning, charging times in freezing temperatures are cut in half.
Regular 10-80% charging should take 30 minutes in normal conditions.
The motors get complete overhauls – lighter and more efficient while delivering more power. The front-wheel-drive version gains 11% more power to 224bhp. The all-wheel-drive model produces 338bhp with 0-62mph in 5.1 seconds – among the most powerful Toyotas available.
Our AWD test was limited to closed roads, but it felt quick enough for the class while still heavy from behind the wheel.
The front-wheel-drive model has the same 198lb ft torque and handles daily driving well. Toyota added four-level brake regeneration in place of the previous single setting, though there’s still no true one-pedal driving.
Improved Handling and Ride
Toyota retuned spring rates and damper forces, upgraded suspension bushes and replaced the steering gear. The changes give the bZ4X more directness on twisting roads while reducing body roll.
It’s not as sharp as a Ford Explorer but improved ride comfort compensates. Additional sound deadening and acoustic glass enhance cabin refinement.
Pricing and Specifications
The 2025 bZ4X goes on sale in the UK this summer. Expect a small increase over the current £43,000 starting price.
All models include heat pumps, automatic/manual preconditioning and updated Toyota Safety Sense.
- Battery: 73.1kWh
- Power: 221bhp (FWD)
- Range: 319 miles
- Charging: Up to 150kW DC, 22kW AC
- 0-62mph: 7.4 seconds
Assessment
The 2025 updates represent genuine progress after incremental improvements since 2022. Better range, increased power and enhanced battery management are welcome upgrades alongside sharper handling and improved ride quality.
From a poor start, the bZ4X has become a pleasant and capable electric SUV. However, it faces rivals like the Enyaq, Kia EV6 and Ioniq 5 that offer more dynamic experiences.
The bZ4X’s 10-year, 650,000-mile battery warranty remains its standout feature in an increasingly competitive market.
