In the rapidly evolving world of electric vehicles, Toyota has maintained a composed and calculated approach. Renowned for their hybrid technology, their entry into the EV market has been strategic, emphasizing a diverse powertrain strategy. This measured approach seems to be proving beneficial, particularly as some EV manufacturers are reconsidering investments amidst fluctuating sales.
However, Toyota is far from idle in the EV sector. While the bZ4x currently stands as their primary all-electric offering in North America, Toyota has ambitious plans for a substantial expansion, with ten new EV models slated for global release. Among these exciting developments is a three-row SUV earmarked for production in the United States, widely anticipated to be named the Toyota Bz5x.
The bZ5x first emerged as the bZ Large SUV concept in December 2021, showcased alongside a fleet of forthcoming Toyota and Lexus EVs. Drawing parallels with past Toyota models transitioning from concept to production, the bZ5x is expected to closely mirror its conceptual predecessor, incorporating practical enhancements for everyday driving.
Further Reading: Toyota and Suzuki Rumored To Co-Develop bZ Tiny Electric SUV For 2025
Toyota bZ Large SUV Concept Front View
Toyota bZ Large SUV Concept Side View
Design Expectations: Hammerhead Styling and Spacious Dimensions
As visualized in speculative renderings, the Toyota bZ5x is projected to inherit the distinctive “hammerhead shark” front fascia, a design element increasingly prevalent across Toyota’s electric and hybrid vehicle range. Expect a sculpted side profile accented by subtle plastic body cladding, a panoramic greenhouse, substantial alloy wheels, and LED taillights that gracefully extend over the rear fenders, all contributing to its modern SUV aesthetic.
Generous Footprint, Family-Focused Interior
Regarding size, the Toyota bZ5x is anticipated to measure approximately 197 inches (5,000mm) in length. This positions it as the all-electric counterpart to the popular Toyota Highlander and a direct competitor to vehicles like the Kia EV9. The inherent packaging advantages of an electric platform should translate to a remarkably spacious cabin, offering enhanced passenger and cargo room within its three-row, seven-seat configuration. This focus on spaciousness underscores its design as a family-oriented vehicle, prioritizing practicality and passenger comfort.
While Toyota has yet to unveil interior imagery of the bZ Large SUV concept, indications suggest the production bZ5x will likely share dashboard design cues with the smaller bZ4x. This could include technological upgrades and design elements borrowed from newer Toyota models like the Prius. A comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) is highly probable, featuring the latest iterations of Toyota Safety Sense, designed to elevate the driving experience and safety.
Extended Range and Enhanced Charging Capabilities
Toyota remains reserved regarding the detailed technical specifications of the upcoming three-row electric SUV. However, it is widely expected to be built upon a stretched version of Toyota’s dedicated e-TNGA electric vehicle architecture. Given its larger size and anticipated weight compared to the bZ4x, the bZ5x will likely incorporate a higher-capacity battery pack, promising improved driving range and faster charging times. Performance-wise, a dual electric motor configuration is probable, enabling all-wheel drive (AWD) and brisk acceleration, positioning it as a strong contender against rivals such as the Kia EV9 in terms of both space and performance.
US Production Debut for Toyota’s Electric SUV
It’s officially confirmed that production of this three-row electric SUV will commence at Toyota’s Kentucky manufacturing facility in 2025. This plant currently produces the Camry and RAV4 Hybrid, showcasing Toyota’s commitment to EV manufacturing in the US. Battery supplies for the bZ5x will be sourced from Toyota’s new battery plant in North Carolina, which has recently benefited from an additional $8 billion investment to quadruple its production capacity, ultimately supporting ten battery production lines.
Subaru and Lexus Derivatives
Lexus Electrified SUV Concept Side View
Lexus Electrified SUV Concept
Mirroring the collaborative strategy seen with the Toyota bZ4x and Subaru Solterra, the Toyota bZ5x is expected to form the basis for a Subaru-branded counterpart. This yet-to-be-named Subaru model will also be manufactured at Toyota’s Kentucky plant, providing another compelling SUV option for the US market. While likely to share fundamental design elements with the Toyota bZ5x, the Subaru version may incorporate distinct Subaru styling cues.
The unveiling of the Toyota bZ Large concept in 2021 coincided with the Lexus Electrified SUV concept, which shares the same underlying platform. Their similar proportions and greenhouse designs suggest Lexus is also developing its own iteration of the upcoming bZ5x.
Following the precedent set by the Lexus RZ, which shares its platform with the Toyota bZ4x and Subaru Solterra, the larger Lexus SUV is expected to differentiate itself through unique design language, a more luxurious and technologically advanced interior, and potentially a higher-performance dual-motor powertrain. These enhancements would justify the Lexus branding and its associated premium price point.
As the anticipated 2025 launch approaches, expect increased information and sightings of camouflaged Toyota bZ5x prototypes undergoing testing. The possibility of a near-production-ready concept vehicle reveal also remains high. Stay connected for ongoing updates on the Toyota bZ5x as it progresses towards its market debut.
Note: The speculative illustrations featured in this article are independent renderings and are not endorsed by Toyota.
Toyota bZ Large SUV Concept Rear View
