Toyota, a leader in hybrid technology, is strategically navigating the electric vehicle market. While they’ve been measured in their EV rollout, their multi-pathway approach appears to be a smart move, especially as some EV manufacturers are scaling back investments due to slower-than-anticipated sales. Despite their cautious approach, Toyota is making significant strides in the EV sector, and the Bz5x is poised to be a key player in their expanding lineup. Currently, the bZ4x is their primary all-electric offering in North America, but Toyota has ambitious plans for the future, including launching 10 new EVs globally. Among these exciting developments is a three-row SUV slated for US production, widely expected to be named the bZ5x.
The anticipation for the bZ5x began building with the unveiling of the bZ Large SUV concept in December 2021, alongside a fleet of other Toyota and Lexus electric concepts. Toyota’s history suggests that the production version of the bZ5x will closely resemble this concept, incorporating practical adjustments necessary for a road-ready vehicle.
Toyota bZ Large SUV Concept front view
bZ5x Design and Expected Features
Drawing from the bZ Large SUV concept, the bZ5x is projected to showcase Toyota’s evolving EV design language. Renderings suggest it will adopt the distinctive “hammerhead shark” front fascia, a design element becoming increasingly common across Toyota’s electric and hybrid models. Key exterior features are likely to include a sculpted silhouette, practical plastic cladding, a wraparound greenhouse for enhanced visibility, large alloy wheels to complement its SUV stance, and striking LED taillights that extend upwards into the rear fenders, adding a modern touch.
Toyota bZ Large SUV Concept side view
Spacious Interior and Family Focus
The Toyota bZ5x is expected to have a substantial footprint, potentially around 197 inches (5,000mm) in length. This sizing positions it as the electric counterpart to the popular Toyota Highlander and a direct competitor to vehicles like the Kia EV9. One of the significant advantages of an electric platform is optimized packaging, which should translate to a remarkably spacious cabin. The bZ5x is designed as a family-oriented vehicle, emphasizing passenger and cargo space within its three-row, 7-seater configuration, making practicality a core selling point.
While Toyota has kept the bZ5x concept interior under wraps, it’s highly anticipated that the production model will borrow dashboard design cues from the bZ4x. Expect a tech-forward cabin with upgraded infotainment systems and potentially design elements seen in newer Toyota models like the Prius. Furthermore, a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), incorporating the latest Toyota Safety Sense features, is expected to be standard, enhancing both safety and the overall driving experience.
Toyota bZ5x speculative rendering in yellow
Toyota bZ5x speculative rendering in black
Performance, Battery Range, and Charging
Toyota remains tight-lipped about the bZ5x’s technical specifications. However, it’s widely anticipated to be built upon a stretched version of Toyota’s e-TNGA architecture, a dedicated EV platform. Given its larger size compared to the bZ4x, it’s reasonable to expect a higher-capacity battery pack, surpassing the bZ4x’s 71.4 kWh unit. This upgrade should result in a significantly improved driving range and faster charging capabilities, addressing key consumer concerns about EV adoption. For performance, a dual-motor setup enabling all-wheel drive (AWD) is highly probable, promising brisk acceleration and positioning it competitively against rivals like the Kia EV9 in both range and performance metrics.
Toyota bZ5x speculative rendering in blue
Toyota bZ5x speculative rendering in red
US Production and Market Impact
In a significant move, Toyota has officially confirmed that the bZ5x will be the first Toyota EV to be manufactured in the United States. Production is slated to begin in 2025 at Toyota’s Kentucky plant, a facility currently producing the popular Camry and RAV4 Hybrid models. To support this US-based EV production, batteries for the bZ5x will be supplied from Toyota’s new battery factory in North Carolina. This facility has seen substantial investment, recently boosted by an additional $8 billion to quadruple its production capacity, aiming for 10 operational battery lines. This commitment underscores Toyota’s dedication to establishing a robust EV supply chain within North America.
bZ5x Platform Sharing with Subaru and Lexus
The Toyota bZ5x is not expected to stand alone. Following Toyota’s strategy with the bZ4x and Subaru Solterra, a Subaru version of the bZ5x is anticipated. This Subaru counterpart, yet to be named, will also be produced at the Kentucky plant, providing another compelling electric SUV option for the US market, likely sharing core design and technology with the bZ5x but with unique Subaru styling cues.
Furthermore, the bZ Large SUV concept that previewed the bZ5x debuted alongside the Lexus Electrified SUV concept in 2021. Their similar proportions suggest that Lexus is also developing its own version of the bZ5x. Just as the Lexus RZ shares its underpinnings with the bZ4x, a Lexus bZ5x variant could differentiate itself through a more luxurious interior, advanced technology features, and potentially a higher-performance dual-motor configuration, justifying a premium price point under the Lexus brand.
Lexus Electrified SUV Concept side view
Conclusion: The Road Ahead for the Toyota bZ5x
The Toyota bZ5x is shaping up to be a crucial model in Toyota’s electric vehicle strategy, representing their entry into the competitive three-row electric SUV segment. With production planned for 2025, anticipation is building. Enthusiasts and potential buyers should expect to see camouflaged prototypes testing on roads in the coming months, potentially even glimpses of a production-ready concept. The bZ5x promises to blend Toyota’s renowned reliability with cutting-edge EV technology, offering a compelling option for families seeking a spacious, electric SUV. Stay connected with cardiagnosticnearme.com for all the latest updates on the Toyota bZ5x as we approach its highly anticipated launch.
Note: The speculative illustrations featured in this article are independent renderings and are not officially endorsed by Toyota.
