Toyota expands electric SUV range with bZ4X Touring

Toyota New Zealand is launching the new bZ4X Touring alongside a significantly upgraded bZ4X, with both electric SUVs scheduled to arrive in Autumn this year.

The bZ4X Touring represents a new variant designed specifically for New Zealand families and adventure-seekers, offering extended dimensions and increased cargo capacity. Meanwhile, the upgraded bZ4X delivers substantial improvements in range, power output, and charging capability through a larger 74.7kWh battery system.

The bZ4X Pure is priced from $56,990, the Motion from $66,990, and the new Touring variant from $69,990.

“Kiwi families love a spacious SUV that fits the kids, the dog, the sports gear – and everything else for a skiing weekend or summer holiday,” says Toyota New Zealand Chief Strategic Officer Andrew Davis. “With more boot space than the bZ4X and an impressive battery range, the bZ4X Touring is built for the New Zealand family lifestyle.”

Toyota New Zealand Chief Executive Tatsuya Ishikawa says the upgrades represent a substantial leap forward for the brand’s electric offering.

“These upgrades to the bZ4X deliver valuable improvements for our customers, along with an increase in power and range, which is sure to put a smile on the driver’s face,” says Ishikawa, who previously worked on bZ4X development before arriving in New Zealand.

Extended dimensions for active lifestyles

The bZ4X Touring measures 140mm longer and 20mm taller than the standard bZ4X, providing substantial increases in cargo space for families and business users. The model features a flexible 40:60 split rear seat configuration and rugged design elements including black resin wheel arches and bridge-type roof rails capable of carrying up to 75kg.

Interior enhancements include a sleek centre console, modern instrument panel, and 14-inch multimedia screen as standard. Optional khaki upholstery adds an outdoors-inspired aesthetic, while a 1500-watt power outlet in the cargo area supports portable appliances and equipment.

Toyota has positioned the Touring as suitable for both family use and small business operators requiring a capable vehicle for work and weekend activities, with all-wheel drive capability designed for New Zealand conditions.

Major bZ4X improvements deliver extended range

The upgraded bZ4X introduces a high-capacity 74.7kWh battery delivering up to 591km range for the Pure grade and 517km for the Motion grade under WLTP testing standards. Toyota New Zealand’s Product Planning team achieved more than 100km additional range during internal evaluation drives compared to the previous generation.

Power output has increased significantly, with the Pure grade now delivering 167kW and the Motion grade jumping to 255kW, up from 160kW in the previous model. The Motion grade’s enhanced capability includes increased towing capacity to 1500kg from the previous 750kg limit.

Design and technology updates

Both models feature Toyota’s signature Hammerhead front design with refined styling for a more unified appearance. The Pure grade includes 18-inch alloys with black and grey metallic aero covers, while the Motion grade features 20-inch black and machine-finished alloys.

New colour options include Deep Sea Blue and Eclipse for both Pure and Motion grades, with the Motion offering two-tone combinations pairing an Eclipse black roof with Frosted White, Precious Metal, Emotional Red, or Deep Sea Blue body colours.

All three models are scheduled for New Zealand introduction in Autumn 2025.

“We’re excited to bring the upgraded bZ4X and bZ4X Touring to New Zealand,” says Ishikawa. “This is electric without compromise and true to Toyota’s famous attention to quality and reliability.”