The Toyota bZ4X Touring, presented as the reviewer's favorite car, has been tested over 1500 kilometers. Upon completion of the test period, the author shares their impressions and observations to determine if this model is worth purchasing.

Charging and Performance

Testing began upon arrival at an Ionity charging station in Novastav with a nearly depleted battery. Despite the 0% charge indicator and 2 km of range, the vehicle demonstrated regenerative braking capability. The author notes that previous experience with the Lexus RZ showed the ability to travel 13-14 km on a zero charge, which instills confidence in the bZ4X's range.

Upon connecting to the charging station, high peak charging power was observed. The manufacturer claims a maximum power of 150 kW, but the vehicle actually reached almost 170 kW, a significant increase. The author emphasizes that, unlike some other manufacturers such as Tesla, where achieving the stated maximum charging power (250 kW) is difficult, Toyota demonstrates consistently high performance. The stated charging time to 80% is 28 minutes, which is confirmed by the author's experience, who charged the vehicle from 12% to 97% in 40 minutes in Poznań.

Despite positive results in charging power, the author notes a recurring issue with the charging port. The first connector often fails to engage, requiring a reconnection or a specific movement ("shaking"). This problem, similar to what was observed in a previous version of the bZ4X, occurs approximately one in every three charging attempts. Slow communication between the vehicle and the charging station, which can take up to a minute, is also noted, requiring patience and potentially raising concerns about communication errors.

Energy Discharge Function (V2L)

A significant advantage of the Toyota bZ4X Touring is its Energy Discharge Function (Vehicle-to-Load, V2L). The author demonstrates the use of this function with the SIG Energy home energy storage system. The vehicle can deliver up to 14 kW of power, surpassing the capabilities of other electric vehicles, including Tesla (around 7-8 kW). This feature allows the car to be used as an energy source for external devices.

Versions and Trims

The author explains that the presented model is the front-wheel-drive version of the bZ4X Touring, the most affordable trim level costing around 219,000 Polish zlotys. It is equipped with a 71 kWh battery, just like the all-wheel-drive version. The power output of both versions is the same. The author decided not to include this version in the "1000 km Challenge" test, as he believes the all-wheel-drive version, which he has not yet tested, is more suitable for it. The all-wheel-drive version of the bZ4X Touring will be included in the test in the future.

Space and Practicality

The Toyota bZ4X Touring stands out with its spacious interior and cargo area. The author notes that the rear seat offers ample legroom for passengers, even with the front seat fully reclined. The trunk is also impressively sized, featuring cargo tie-down hooks and the ability to fold down the rear seats for transporting larger items. Under the trunk floor, additional storage compartments are located, including a space for charging cables.

However, the author points out the absence of a 12V outlet in the trunk, which could be a drawback for those planning to use, for example, a portable cooler.

Ergonomics and Control Features

One of the significant issues noted by the author is the inability to optimally adjust the steering column to simultaneously ensure a comfortable hand position and good visibility of the instrument panel. When the steering wheel is adjusted for a comfortable grip, the screen becomes partially obscured. The author suggests that changing the shape of the steering wheel (e.g., with a flattened top) could solve this problem.

Driver-assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, function effectively. However, the author encountered an issue with determining the hand position on the steering wheel. After a prolonged period without actively holding the steering wheel, the system issues a warning to keep hands on the wheel and may then deactivate. Unlike Tesla, where a full vehicle reboot is required, in the bZ4X, it is sufficient to reactivate the driver-assistance systems.

Energy Consumption and Range

During a trip on the A2 motorway at a speed of 140 km/h, energy consumption was 21-22 kWh/100 km. When the speed was reduced to 90-120 km/h, the average consumption decreased to 19 kWh/100 km. The author estimates the range at 350 km under combined driving conditions at a temperature of 19 degrees Celsius and on a wet road. When driving in urban mode or at lower speeds, the range can reach 450 km.

Issues with the EV System

The author notes that during intense accelerations (e.g., during overtakes), the EV system can overheat, as indicated by the message "EV system is overheated." In this state, the car loses power, making overtakes difficult. The author did not demonstrate this effect to avoid impacting overall energy consumption figures, but mentions that it could be a significant drawback.

Additional Notes

• Passenger Seat: The lack of electric adjustment for the passenger seat is noted as a drawback, considering the car's price.
• Fire Extinguisher: The placement of the fire extinguisher under the passenger seat restricts legroom.
• No Glove Box: Instead of a traditional glove box, infrared heaters have been installed to reduce energy consumption, which is a compromise.
• Charging: Charging from 5% to 80% took 26 minutes, during which 55 kWh of energy was added, equivalent to approximately 250 km of range.

In conclusion, the author considers the Toyota bZ4X Touring a car that can be used for long-distance travel, noting its practicality and sufficient range. However, a number of minor but irritating drawbacks, such as issues with the charging port and ergonomics, could lead some users to decide against purchasing it.