Toyota is teasing a new EV it is unveiling next month. This is the production version of the bZ Compact Crossover concept from 2022. It will be smaller than the bZ4X, though not by much.
A silhouette image of the crossover reveals the production vehicle retains most elements from this concept, including its raked roofline and long bonnet. At the rear is a light bar and up front Toyota’s ‘hammerhead’ design and angular headlights like C-HR’s.
It is somewhat similar to the Chinese-market bZ3C fastback. So this could well be an export variant of that car.
The new 4538mm EV will sit between the slightly larger bZ4X and Toyota C-HR hybrid. It will use the e-TNGA electric platform, like bZ4X. And it is likely to come with various battery sizes and motor options. Expect an AWD variant that will likely use the Urban Cruiser powertrain. That’s good for 135kW of power and 300Nm of torque. With a 61kWh battery pact, it has claimed range of 384km.
A single-motor variant will likely use a 49kWh pack, with power coming from a 106kW front-mounted motor. Both will accept 150kW of charging speed.
The interior is a mystery but promises to deliver “surprising space, comfort and versatility”. It will likely take after that of C-HR, though it hasn’t yet been shown. If so, it will have a 12.3-inch IFT screen.
Read our review of Toyota’s bZ4X here.
Top models will probably run to a panoramic sunroof, a JBL sound system and front sports seats.
What it’s called is also not yet clear. It would have been bZ3X, but Toyota is apparently moving away from that confusing alphanumeric naming strategy.
Pricing is likely to fall between that of C-HR and bZ4X, suggesting circa $NZ50k. Rivals include new Skoda Elroq, Mini Countryman and Smart #3.
We have asked Toyota New Zealand about its plans for this EV.
