Is the bZ4X a plug-in?
The bZ4X is not a plug-in hybrid; it is a fully electric vehicle (BEV) that you charge by plugging in. It runs on electricity alone and does not use a gasoline engine to drive the wheels.
What the bZ4X is
The bZ4X is Toyota’s first mass-market battery-electric SUV, part of the bZ (beyond Zero) family. It shares the e-TNGA platform with the Subaru Solterra and is designed to be charged from an external power source. There is no gasoline engine powering the drive wheels, as it relies entirely on its battery and electric motors.
How it fits into the broader EV landscape
As a BEV, the bZ4X competes with other compact to mid-size electric SUVs in the market, offering a family-friendly footprint and an emphasis on efficiency and technology rather than range-extending features.
Charging, range, and battery specifics
Key facts about how the bZ4X stores and uses electricity help clarify why it’s considered a BEV rather than a plug-in hybrid.
- Battery capacity: roughly 64 kWh usable capacity, with a gross pack around 71.4 kWh depending on market and configuration.
- Powertrain options: front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) variants.
- DC fast charging: supports up to about 150 kW for rapid recharging on long trips.
- Estimated range: EPA figures typically place the FWD version in the mid-to-upper 200s miles per charge, with AWD slightly lower depending on tires and trim.
Note: Exact specifications, including battery size and range, can vary by market, trim level, and model year. Always check local specs for precise figures.
Is there a plug-in version?
No. The bZ4X does not have a plug-in hybrid variant in Toyota’s lineup. It is a battery-electric vehicle (BEV) that is charged from the grid. In Toyota’s broader lineup, plug-in hybrids exist in models like the RAV4 Prime and Prius Prime, but not in the bZ4X family.
For consumers, this distinction matters because BEVs like the bZ4X rely entirely on electricity for propulsion and do not burn fuel at all, whereas plug-in hybrids combine an internal combustion engine with an electric motor and can run on gasoline for extended ranges when the battery depletes.
Safety, recalls, and recent updates
Beyond drivetrain classification, the bZ4X has seen notable safety and reliability attention in recent years.
- Safety recalls: In 2022, Toyota and Subaru recalled some bZ4X and Solterra models due to a potential wheel-hub bolt issue that could lead to wheel detachment if not addressed. Dealers performed inspections and installed fixes, and shipments were paused temporarily during the process.
- Ongoing updates: Like many new EV programs, the bZ4X has received software and firmware updates to enhance charging algorithms, battery management, and overall reliability since its initial launch.
These steps reflect the industry-wide emphasis on safety and reliability as early BEV models mature in the market.
Bottom line for readers
The bZ4X is a fully electric SUV, not a plug-in hybrid. You plug it in to charge, and it relies on electricity from its battery for all propulsion. While it can be charged at home or at public charging stations, Toyota has not offered a bZ4X PHEV variant. Range and charging performance vary by market and configuration, so prospective buyers should review local specifications and consider driving needs, climate, and charging infrastructure when evaluating the bZ4X.
Summary
The bZ4X stands as Toyota’s battery-electric SUV entry, designed to be charged from external power sources and used without a gasoline engine. It is not a plug-in hybrid. For those comparing plug-in options, note that Toyota’s plug-in hybrids (such as the RAV4 Prime or Prius Prime) are separate models. As with other early BEVs, buyers should be aware of market-specific specifications and recent recalls, including a 2022 safety-related wheel-hub recall that led to temporary shipment pauses and service fixes.
Does the Toyota bZ4X come with free charging?
Yes! We are excited to provide one (1) year of complimentary, unlimited public charging to model year 2024 and 2025 bZ4X customers during their first year of ownership at all EVgo-owned and operated public charging stations in the U.S.
Is the Toyota bZ4X a plug-in hybrid?
The Toyota bZ4X, marketed as simply the Toyota bZ in North America since 2025, is a battery electric compact crossover SUV manufactured by Toyota. A Subaru version is marketed as the Subaru Solterra.
Why are Toyota bZ4X not selling?
The Toyota bZ4X's poor sales are due to a combination of factors, including its initial costly recalls for wheels falling off, leading to a halted production and damaged reputation. Additionally, the vehicle has been criticized for its subpar range, slow charging speeds, and uninspiring design compared to competitors, making it less appealing in the competitive EV market.
This video explains why Toyota is buying back the bZ4X from owners: 59sThe Electric VikingYouTube · Aug 8, 2022
Recalls and reliability concerns
- Wheel detachment recall: An initial major recall in 2022 where the wheels could fall off led to a halt in sales and significantly damaged consumer confidence.
- Defroster issue: A later recall for a faulty HVAC defroster system in 2025 further hurt its reputation, particularly in colder climates.
Performance and features
- Limited range: The bZ4X's range was lower than many competitors, and real-world range often fell short of advertised figures, causing "range anxiety" for some drivers.
- Slow charging: Its DC fast-charging speeds were significantly slower than those of rivals from Hyundai, Kia, and Tesla.
- Uninspiring design: The vehicle's design was considered by some to be unusual or unattractive, and reviewers described its performance as unexciting compared to rivals.
Market and price
- High initial price: When it first launched, the price was considered high for the range and features it offered.
- Strong competition: The bZ4X faces intense competition from other electric SUVs with more compelling designs, better performance, and a stronger market presence.
- Price cuts: Despite price reductions to make it more competitive, the negative early experiences and ongoing issues continued to hinder its sales.
How do I charge my Toyota bZ4X at home?
For this ask your Toyota retailer about a wallbox charger. They can advise you on the best equipment to suit your needs.
