Toyota has officially announced the discontinuation of its electric bZ4X model in the U.S. market, replacing it with a new model simply named Toyota bZ. Meanwhile, the European market will continue to receive the vehicle under the bZ4X name. This move is more than a renaming-it comes with important updates in design, technology, and performance aimed at strengthening Toyota’s position in the growing electric vehicle segment.
Sharper, More Elegant Design
The new model retains the recognizable "hammerhead" front-end design but adds sharper details with more distinctive LED headlights and more aggressive front air intakes that enhance the sporty character of the vehicle. The alloy wheels have been updated and are available in 18- and 20-inch sizes, giving the car a more refined and standout appearance.
Additional exterior changes include wheel arch trims painted in the same color as the body on select colors such as Wind Chill Pearl, Heavy Metal, and Black, adding a sophisticated touch to the vehicle’s overall length of 4,690 mm.
Interior Upgrades Focused on Comfort and Technology
Inside, the dashboard now features a larger 14-inch infotainment touchscreen, which is standard across all trims. Toyota has also added dual wireless smartphone chargers and customizable ambient lighting with 64 colors, enhancing user experience and creating a comfortable cabin atmosphere.
A new feature includes paddle shifters behind the steering wheel that allow the driver to adjust regenerative braking levels, providing a more interactive and controlled driving experience.
Enhanced Performance and Increased Power
The new model is built on Toyota’s e-TNGA electric platform but with significant improvements in motors and batteries. The all-wheel-drive version now produces a combined 338 horsepower, up from 215 horsepower in the previous model. The front-wheel-drive version delivers 221 horsepower, an increase from 201 horsepower.
More importantly, the new bZ offers a 25% increase in driving range, reaching up to 505 kilometers (314 miles) on a full charge thanks to a slightly larger 74.7 kWh lithium-ion battery. There will also be a base version with a smaller 57.7 kWh battery offering a range of 380 kilometers (236 miles).
Advanced Charging Support and Tesla Charging Network Access
The Toyota bZ supports the North American Charging Standard (NACS), meaning owners can use Tesla’s extensive fast-charging network-an important convenience that enhances the usability of the electric vehicle in North America.
Toyota confirms that the battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes using a DC fast charger. Additionally, the vehicle includes a battery pre-conditioning feature to optimize charging efficiency.
Availability and Pricing
The new Toyota bZ is expected to arrive in U.S. showrooms in the second half of 2025. It will be available in two main trims-XLE and Limited-with options for front-wheel or all-wheel drive and two different battery sizes depending on the trim.
Official pricing has not yet been announced but will be revealed prior to the vehicle’s market launch.
Toyota’s Electric Vehicle Future
Currently, the Toyota bZ is the only fully electric vehicle offered by Toyota in North America, alongside a broad lineup of gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid models. However, this is set to change soon, as Toyota plans to introduce its own version of the Subaru Trailseeker electric SUV, expanding its electric lineup with a larger and more spacious crossover.
The new Toyota bZ represents a significant step in Toyota’s transition toward electric vehicles, with noticeable improvements in design, technology, and performance, along with Tesla charging network support that simplifies the ownership experience. This model marks a fresh start for Toyota’s ambitions in the U.S. electric vehicle market and promises to be a strong competitor in the mid-size electric SUV segment.
At Al-Katonia Automotive magazine, we will continue to provide up-to-date coverage on the Toyota bZ and other developments shaping the future of electric mobility.
Tamara is an editor who has been working in the automotive field for over 3 years. She is also an automotive journalist and presenter; she shoots car reviews and tips on her social media platforms. She has a translation degree, and she also works as a freelance translator, copywriter, voiceover artist, and video editor. She’s taken automotive OBD Scanner and car diagnosis courses, and she’s also worked as an automotive sales woman for a year, in addition to completing an internship with Skoda Lebanon for 2 months. She also has been in the marketing field for over 2 years, and she also create social media content for small businesses.
