Just when you thought you could take a breather from new cars, Toyota has announced it's launching the bZ4X Touring. ‘What’? I hear you ask.
Well, the name, which hardly trips off the tongue, is essentially the estate version of Toyota's fully electric bZ4X, enhancing the model's appeal with, according to Toyota, improved, versatile performance and - clearly - a significant increase in load capacity.
Estate cars are not as fashionable as SUVs - but they are making a comeback. Not that they ever really went away - the Corolla Touring Sports (and, for a brief time, the almost identical and excellent Suzuki Swace) are proof of that, if any were needed. Fundamentally, though, Toyota is calling the new bZ4X Touring an 'authentic SUV' - and that's fine.
Even though I haven't driven it yet, I've had a good poke around the Touring - and anyone seeking a vehicle that accommodates an active lifestyle or serves as a spacious and flexible family car will love this new model.
The bZ4X Touring will undoubtedly boost Toyota's extensive presence in the critical B, C, and D electric SUV market segments, joining the all-new Urban Cruiser, Toyota C-HR+, and the revised bZ4X in its battery-electric vehicle portfolio.
All the models I've mentioned embody the characteristics of the Japanese automaker's BEV range: true all-wheel-drive capability, and the marque’s renowned quality, durability, and reliability. With various battery options and the choice between front-wheel and all-wheel drive, Toyota caters to a wide array of needs these days, whether you prioritise performance, cost efficiency, or, with the new bZ4X Touring, a vehicle tailored very well indeed to the requirements of busy family life.
Digging deeper, then, Toyota has designed the bZ4X Touring to seamlessly extend the established bZ4X SUV body style. The dimensions have been increased by 140mm in length and 20mm in height (totalling 4,830mm and 1,670mm respectively), resulting in a remarkable one-third hike in load capacity - an extra 148 litres, bringing it to 669 litres.
The design maximises the space-saving potential offered by Toyota's BEV powertrain, featuring compact components and a configuration that eliminates encroachment into both the cabin and the load area.
The bZ4X Touring is fully equipped to accommodate a family's holiday luggage, then, or any variety of leisure - or even business - equipment. A 40:60 split rear seat arrangement enables easy expansion of the available space when needed.
Toyota told me that the all-wheel-drive variant benefits from Toyota's intelligent XMODE drive control technology and Grip Control, offering assurance of extra traction and stable performance on rough or loose terrain - ideal for weekend excursions.
A 74.7kWh lithium-ion battery powers both the all-wheel-drive and front-wheel-drive versions and comes with either an 11kW or 22kW onboard charger, depending on the model grade. Maximum fast-charging capability (DC) is approximately 150kW.
The battery utilises Toyota's latest innovations to enhance performance and charging speed. It features a water-cooling system and a preconditioning function that can be activated manually or automatically when navigating to a fast-charging station, ensuring the battery reaches an optimal charging temperature. This is particularly useful in colder climates, so we could do with the car here in the UK now rather than waiting for it! Oh well.
The expected maximum output of the front-wheel-drive version is 221bhp, whereas the all-wheel-drive version of the bZ4X Touring comes with a healthy 376bhp, making it the most potent Toyota BEV on the market when it arrives. The powertrain benefits from Toyota's new eAxle technology, which uses advanced silicon carbide semiconductors to improve efficiency, increase power output, and achieve a lighter, more compact package.
In addition to extra horsepower, the bZ4X Touring is apparently capable of towing trailers weighing up to 1,500kg, reinforcing its credentials as a highly competent new kid on the block.
Details such as the black finish on the wheel arches and the dark alloy wheels also add to the Touring’s appeal. Notable changes can also be seen at the rear, with a different lower bumper design and LED combination lights, giving the car a modern, outdoor-inspired look.
Furthermore, the roof rails make the Toyota even more practical, with a maximum roof load capacity of 80kg.
Inside, the cabin mirrors the latest bZ4X's fresh design, housing a new centre console for seamless use of digital devices and a revamped instrument panel. The inclusion of a bigger 14-inch multimedia screen will undoubtedly enhance the driving experience. The system also includes a BEV navigation function, allowing you to identify charging points based on the battery's status and remaining range.
Finally, consistent with all of Toyota's new BEVs, the Touring comes with a guarantee for lasting battery quality, durability, and reliability. Toyota's Battery Care Programme covers its battery for up to 10 years or 1,000,000 miles, contingent on an annual battery health assessment.
The bZ4X Touring, which is said to deliver up to 348 miles of range, is set to make its debut in the UK and Europe in the spring. I can't wait for the launch so I can drive the car. Watch this space!