For years, Toyota has led the way in hybrid technology, but when it came to full electric vehicles, the competition seemed to be pulling ahead. That’s about to change. The Toyota bZ4X, the brand’s flagship EV, has received a major upgrade in Europe—one that might finally make it a true contender against heavyweights like Tesla, Hyundai, and Ford. With more power, faster charging, better range, and improved technology, the new bZ4X is shaping up to be everything Toyota fans have been waiting for.
More Power, More Performance
The most significant change lies under the hood—or rather, in the motors. The revised bZ4X now packs a serious punch with two motor options that utilize cutting-edge silicon carbide semiconductors for greater efficiency and power output. The front-wheel-drive version now offers either 164 or 211 horsepower, depending on battery size, while the all-wheel-drive model gets a staggering upgrade to 337 horsepower. That’s a huge leap from the previous 215-hp AWD model, putting it among Toyota’s most powerful cars outside of the high-performance GR lineup.
Toyota’s updates aren’t just about raw power, though. They also bring better handling and a smoother ride, with improved suspension tuning and lower noise levels inside the cabin. The result? A bZ4X that doesn’t just get you from A to B—it makes the journey more enjoyable.
Smarter Battery Choices, Longer Range
The previous bZ4X lineup had two batteries with nearly identical capacities. Now, Toyota has rethought its approach, offering a more diversified lineup. The smaller battery, available in front-wheel-drive models, has an estimated usable capacity of 51.9 kWh. Meanwhile, the larger battery, which can be paired with both FWD and AWD configurations, increases capacity to 73.1 kWh.
This means improved driving range. The top-spec European model now boasts an estimated 573 km (356 miles) of range on the WLTP cycle—up from the previous 516 km (320 miles). While U.S. figures haven’t been released yet, early estimates suggest a range increase from 252 miles to around 280 miles for the best-performing model.
Additionally, Toyota has increased energy density and added more cells per battery, meaning better efficiency across the board. Whether you’re a daily commuter or a road trip enthusiast, these changes translate to more time on the road and less time plugged in.
Faster, More Convenient Charging
Charging speed has always been a key concern for EV buyers, and Toyota has addressed this in a big way. The onboard AC charger now delivers 11 kW in its standard form, with an available 22-kW option—double what the previous model could handle. This means at-home Level 2 charging times are significantly reduced, making overnight recharges more practical.
DC fast-charging remains capped at 150 kW, but thanks to improved battery preconditioning, the bZ4X now sustains high-speed charging for longer periods. In real-world terms, that means a 10% to 80% charge in about 30 minutes—an improvement over the previous version, which sometimes took close to an hour.
Toyota also introduced an intelligent charging route planner. Drivers can now input their destination, and the system will automatically select the best charging stops along the way based on real-time battery status and range estimates. And for those in cold climates, the addition of automatic battery preconditioning ensures better charging performance in freezing temperatures.
Enhanced Interior Tech and Design
While the exterior styling has been subtly refined for better aerodynamics, the biggest visual changes happen inside. The driver display has been repositioned for better visibility, and the previous 12.3-inch touchscreen has been replaced with a larger 14.0-inch unit, now standard across the lineup. The center console has been redesigned, incorporating dual wireless charging pads and a more intuitive gear selector placement.
Toyota also focused on cabin comfort, improving insulation for a quieter ride. Combined with the updated suspension, this makes for a more refined driving experience.
A More Capable EV for Real-World Use
Beyond the power and efficiency upgrades, Toyota has also doubled the towing capacity of the AWD model. Now rated at 3,306 lbs (1,500 kg), the bZ4X is much better suited for drivers who need to tow small trailers or caravans—a big plus for European customers.
The Future of Toyota’s EV Strategy
Toyota has confirmed that these updates will first roll out in European markets, with availability in other regions expected later. While no official word has been given for U.S. availability, history suggests that these improvements will make their way across the Atlantic in the near future.
The company has also hinted at more all-electric models joining the lineup by 2026, including a potential electric pickup truck and new SUV. This marks a major shift in Toyota’s EV strategy—one that seems to indicate the automaker is finally ready to take electric mobility seriously.
With its increased range, faster charging, more power, and smarter technology, the 2025 Toyota bZ4X is no longer just an alternative—it’s a real contender. If Toyota continues on this trajectory, it might just reshape its place in the EV market for good.
Specification Table:
| Specification | 2024 bZ4X | New bZ4X |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Size | 71.4 kWh; 72.8 kWh | 57.7 kWh; 73.1 kWh |
| Range (EU-spec) | Up to 516 km | Up to 573 km |
| Range (U.S.-spec) | Up to 252 miles | ~280 miles (estimated) |
| Maximum Power | Up to 214 hp | Up to 343 hp |
| Max DC Charging Speed | 150 kW | 150 kW |
| Onboard AC Charger | 6.6 kW (U.S.); 11 kW (EU) | Up to 22 kW |
| Towing Capacity (AWD) | 1,653 lbs (750 kg) | 3,306 lbs (1,500 kg) |
| Touchscreen Size | 12.3-inch | 14.0-inch |
| Battery Preconditioning | No | Yes |
| EV Route Planning | No (app only) | Yes (integrated) |
