Toyota’s first EV, the BZ4X, has received mixed reviews since its launch in 2022. Last to try one, was deputy editor Sean Keywood, who drove an entry-level front-wheel drive Pure version. His thoughts were largely the same, with the biggest concern being over the equipment – or the lack of it! Whilst his Pure was the entry-level spec, he felt that cloth and manually adjustable seats had no place on an EV costing over £46,000.

To see if our opinion on the single-motor BZ4X changes with more equipment, we’ve got this £51,810, Vision (the range-topping equipment grade) for comparison. Standard kit aside, the Vision is powered by the same 71.kWh power unit shared with the rest of the range. Unfortunately, that extra equipment strikes its first blow, denting the range of this Toyota EV – taking it down to an adequate 278 miles. In reality, during a particularly cold spell when we had this test car, it was more like 200 miles of EV range!

With 204hp and acceleration to 60mph taking 7.5 seconds, the single motor FWD version of the BZ4X is a more than adequate performer. However, range becomes an issue, with even motorway runs at the national speed limit, seeing the range alarmingly deplete. 

On the road, this Toyota as expected, is a competent rather than fun companion. However, the standard 20in wheels equal an unsettled ride around town and quite a bit of road noise on motorways. So, in our opinion, the BZ4X is better to drive on the smaller 18in wheels previously experienced on the entry-level Pure grade. This goes hand in hand with a surprising amount of wind noise, which we think was coming from the chunky wing mirrors. 

Elsewhere, this Toyota’s steering is reasonably precise, with good weight, and despite its SUV-like ride height and tall body, there’s decent control in the corners and reasonable steering feel. 

Inside, considering the SUV-like silhouette, the roofline is lower than you might expect. However, in the front there’s more than enough headroom for the tallest driver and passenger. The driving position is comfortable, although the small Peugeot-iCockpit-like multi-function steering wheel seems to obscure the bottom of the raised instrument cluster, making it hard to read at a glance. 

Inside, the centre console is dominated by the 12in touchscreen, that is thankfully easy to use. 

Front and rear legroom in the BZ4X is also exceptional, although taller rear passengers might find their heads brushing the headlining. 

The boot is big at 452 litres and practically shaped, although rivals such as the Kia EV6 and Skoda Enyaq offer more. 

The rear seats fold to increase practicality, but annoyingly they don’t fold totally flat. 

Elsewhere, there’s impressive stowage throughout this Toyota EV’s interior. 

Finally, despite extra equipment such as the faux leather trim, plus heating and cooling seats, the interior doesn’t feel that special in our opinion considering the £50,000+ price, but quality is good. 

So, is the previously driven BZ4X in Pure grade the fleet sweet spot in FWD form, or is it better to splash out the extra for this Vision version? Alloy wheel upgrade aside, the extra equipment is welcome. However, apart from the fake leather trim, on first acquaintance it’s not obvious where the extra money has been spent. 

However, the biggest BZ4X issue must be the inconclusive range. The smallest thing, such as heating the interior, or even keeping up with other traffic at national speed limits, can have a big effect on how far you can go in this Toyota EV. 

Until Toyota takes another look at this, it makes the BZ4X hard to recommend against the EV opposition, which is a shame.

Toyota BZ4X Vision 150kW 

P11D: £51,755

Residual value: 48.4%

Depreciation: £25,929

Fuel: £4,215

Service, maintenance and repair: £2,318

Cost per mile: 52.72p

Range: 278 miles

CO2 (BIK %): 0g/km (2%) 

BIK 20/40% a month: £17/£34

Luggage capacity; 452 litres

Battery size/power: 71.4kWh battery/204hp