Toyota Motor Philippines took us out on an electrified media drive featuring all their electrified vehicles (HEVs and EVs), including Lexus models, and we were lucky to be handed the keys to the Toyota bZ4X, one of their latest models to enter the country, with a major stint to Pampanga.
So yes, finally, Toyota Motor Philippines is now offering the Toyota bZ4X in the country, and it is officially their first EV offering. This now makes two total EV offerings with the recent addition of the Toyota Urban Cruiser. (You can read the launch article of the Toyota Urban Cruiser here, and watch our short walkaround of the Urban Cruiser here).
It took quite some time for the bZ4X to appear, but with the rising demand and popularity for EVs in the Philippines, and the recent gas crisis, it’s better late than never.
The moment we saw the Toyota bZ4X in the metal before we left, we noticed its striking design, which looked very different from other Toyota models in the lineup. Sure, it now has the signature Hammerhead front end, with C-shaped near-boomerang-style headlights. But it was very apparent in the underground parking lot, surrounded by other Toyota models, that the designers had quite a bit of fun designing the BZ4X and really differentiating it as a BEV rather than an HEV or an ICE. It really is quite far-fetched from what we are used to seeing from Toyota in a design perspective, and we dare say it looks unique, futuristic, and quite handsome on the road.
That said, while the design is striking and the car does look relatively large thanks to sharp angular lines, it is quite apparent that the bZ4X’s platform felt a bit rushed, in the sense that space is not king.
Usually, EVs boast good interior space, with some dedicated EV platforms even featuring their own frunk for added utility and storage. The rear design, while striking in appearance, compromises rear cargo space with an awkward angle, thanks to its liftback, coupe-style shape. But sometimes those are trade-offs for designers to have fun, and we have no problems with that.
Rear seating space is not very impressive, and does feel quite tight. There’s barely any place to tuck your feet underneath the front seats, more so if the driver prefers a lower seating position.
Dig deeper through the platform used for the bZ4X, and you start to understand why. You see, the bZ4X is based on the e-TNGA platform, which is also made in collaboration with Subaru for their Solterra EV crossover. It is an ICE/HEV platform that is retrofitted to become an EV, which has its disadvantages.
Having disadvantages, however, also makes the bZ4X have an advantage, and that’s the way it drives and how you feel as a driver.
First up, the front cabin. It feels cozy in here, and you can really dial in your perfect driving position, the exception being the placement of the digital gauge cluster in front of you. Its HUD-style configuration makes it awkwardly placed, and depending on where you set your steering wheel, it could nearly block the full view of the instrument cluster, which urges you to set it at the lowest position.
Once you have that out of the way, you are greeted by the athletic feel that a TNGA platform can give you. Steering feels tight, and the bZ4X’s dimensions make it easy to maneuver through Metro Manila traffic. Power is instantaneous, with plenty of torque, making for quick overtaking on the expressway and country roads. With 342 hp (347 ps) and 439 Nm of torque on tap, it’s easy to have fun, especially with the focused and tight-feel of the chassis and a very compliant suspension. AWD capabilities also ensure grip at all times, giving added confidence no matter the weather conditions.
Cornering and braking are also great, despite being a heavy car (as all EVs usually are), the weight of the batteries down below helps keep this crossover planted in the corners, along with respectable stopping power.
Those wanting to adjust the regenerative braking capabilities can do so via the paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel, but even at full regenerative braking levels, it still falls short of a true one-pedal driving experience.
As for other facets of the bZ4X, the infotainment system is easy to use and doesn’t force-feed you with information, unlike those of other EVs on the market. The sound system sounds respectable, and added comfort and convenience are found with heated and cooled seats, along with dual wireless chargers and multiple storage and cubby holes for smaller items.
In terms of overall driving experience and features, you really don’t feel shortchanged with the BZ4X, and it does make for a potential fun and practical daily driver.
Initial Verdict:
While we do want a bit more time to experience the bZ4X, our initial drive shows the potential of a Toyota EV on Philippine roads. It feels great and dynamic to drive, it has plenty of power and shows great stability at higher speeds, while retaining great comfort. Sure, it presents compromises, but the driving experience makes up for it.
In terms of having an everyday experience, we will get the bZ4X for a full review down the line, but as it stands, it’s a friendly EV for most that anyone would enjoy driving.
The post First Drive Impressions: 2026 Toyota bZ4X appeared first on YugaAuto: Automotive News & Reviews in the Philippines.