bZ4X Touring adds wagon-like space and more power

Overseas model shown.

Toyota’s EV range has been expanded with a larger wagon-styled bZ4X, with a lift in performance and a host of features that are perfectly suited to Kiwi families, as well as businesses, and those who seek the thrill of a zero-emissions adventuring and touring lifestyle.

Toyota has expanded its EV range with the new bZ4X Touring, a larger and more powerful electric SUV designed for Kiwi families who love to get out and explore.

Hard on the heels of the arrival of the second generation bZ4X, with its larger battery at 74.7kWh, extended range and faster charging, the bZ4X Touring arrives with the same battery but with increased performance and a range of practical features designed for outdoor lifestyles.

Toyota NZ Chief Strategic Officer, Andrew Davis, says until recently families and recreational adventurers wanting the space and versatility of a wagon, the confidence of All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and the benefits of an all-electric powertrain haven’t had many options.

“The bZ4X Touring delivers the space and practicality many Kiwi families are looking for, with more luggage capacity and rugged design elements that genuinely support active lifestyles.”

“It’s a vehicle built for people who want to load up the bikes, boards or camping gear and head away for the weekend. In the past this level of recreation has been a compromise for those wanting to shift to a full EV so it’s exciting to be able to offer such a capable option.”

“Touring combines the everyday usefulness of a wagon, the confidence of an SUV, and genuinely rewarding driving dynamics which makes it a fun car to drive – something few EVs can claim. The vehicle’s real advantage lies in its advanced AWD capability supported by X-MODE and Grip Control systems and Multi-Terrain Monitor with under vehicle view.”

“The system delivers authentic off-road driving capability. Using the X-MODE and Grip Control bZ4X Touring delivers greater traction, stability, and confidence on gravel roads, ski field access roads, farm tracks, and other low‑grip surfaces, allowing Kiwis to keep getting to the places that support their outdoor lifestyles regardless of conditions.” Andrew says.

Performance has also been enhanced, with larger electric motors increasing total system output from 252kW to 280kW. The onboard AC charger is rated up to 22kW three phase and max DC fast charging capability is 150kW. Improvements to the battery heating and cooling system, including a new pre-conditioning function, mean that fast charging performance will be more consistent.

While the bZ4X projects a sleek and high-tech look, the Touring’s spacious, wagon-like body adopts a series of styling details that emphasise a more rugged and adventurous spirit, such as an unpainted grained black finish for the wheel arches, black wheels and robust bridge-type roof rails.

The bZ4X Touring provides a seamless extension of the established bZ4X’s SUV body style. It is 140 mm longer and 25 mm higher, these dimensions increase the load compartment capacity by more than a third to 550 litres measured to the bottom of the back window (bZ4X Motion is 410 litres).

Plus, there are sturdy roof rails that make fitting rooftop storage boxes, bike racks, or other adventure accessories that much easier. Should you need it, the bZ4X Touring will tow up to 1,500kg braked or 750kg unbraked.

Inside, the Touring offers two cabin colour options – black or khaki, which provide a more outdoorsy feeling. Whatever colour is chosen, the materials are same – synthetic leather seating material and a heated synthetic leather steering wheel.

Regenerative braking can be quickly adjusted via steering wheel paddles, allowing drivers to make changes without taking their eyes off the road.

Talking of screens, the Touring features a 14-inch high-resolution touchscreen display that controls a 9 speaker JBL premium audio system, satellite navigation, and wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto.

The bZ4X Touring includes other premium features found elsewhere in the bZ4X range including a panoramic view monitor, Toyota TeamMate (advanced parking), dual-zone climate control, eight-way powered front seats with heating and ventilation, digital rearview mirror, fixed panoramic roof and a 1500W inverter.

In terms of functionality, the Touring gets two Qi wireless phone chargers up front, big cupholders and a useful amount of centre-console storage.

The Touring rides on 20” black alloys with matte-black resin aero caps. The black alloys contrast nicely with the lighter exterior colours: Crystal White, Ice Silver and Brilliant Bronze, a new colour just for the Touring. Other exterior colours are Magnetite Grey, Midnight Black and Sapphire Blue.

The bZ4X Touring further expands Toyota’s growing electrified line-up, offering Kiwi drivers a practical and capable EV designed to support everyday life as well as weekend adventures.

For more information visit the Toyota New Zealand website.