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Toyota's electric RAV4 alternative is here! 2023 bZ4X to kick off Toyota Australia's EV era with Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 in its sights

Don’t expect the bZ4X to change much as it moves from concept to series production.

Toyota has revealed the concept version of the bZ4X mid-size SUV, an all-electric model that will kick off a new era for the brand in Australia.

While the series-production bZ4X has been confirmed for a local launch, exactly when it will arrive remains a mystery, although international sales are set to be begin by the middle of next year, so an Australian debut could happen as soon as late 2022 or early 2023.

Either way, the bZ4X is shaping as a very important model for Toyota, both locally and abroad, with it set to take on the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 as well as the Tesla Model Y, Volkswagen ID.4 and Ford Mustang Mach-E in an emerging segment.

That said, bZ4X details are few and far between, although we do know it’s the result of a collaboration with Subaru, which will spin off its own all-electric mid-size SUV, reportedly dubbed Evoltis, from the new e-TNGA platform.

The bZ4X also features an all-wheel-drive system, which all but confirms a dual-motor powertrain. Likewise, there’s no official information on driving range, battery, performance, dimensions and general specification yet.

  • 2023 Toyota bZ4X concept 2023 Toyota bZ4X concept
  • 2023 Toyota bZ4X concept 2023 Toyota bZ4X concept
  • 2023 Toyota bZ4X concept 2023 Toyota bZ4X concept

Charging is another mysterious topic, but Toyota has said the bZ4X will have solar capabilities beyond the usual plug-in and regenerative braking solutions.

Styling-wise, the bZ4X looks very much the all-electric RAV4 alternative that it is, with the key differences being its long wheelbase and expected lack of a grille and exhaust tailpipes.

Inside, the spacious bZ4X stands out from the Toyota crowd with its ‘yoke’ steering wheel, digital instrument cluster, ‘floating’ centre console and use of alternative materials.

As reported, the bZ4X is the first in a long line of new bZ (beyond Zero) all-electric models, with seven to be launched globally by 2025, all of which will be considered for introduction by Toyota Australia.

Toyota Australia vice-president of sales and marketing Sean Hanley said: “Our approach reiterates Toyota Australia's absolute commitment to reducing its CO2 footprint and the adoption of new technologies across our extensive range of vehicles, whilst recognising the different practical needs of Australian customers and geographies.”