While the global shift towards electric vehicles accelerates, Toyota has maintained a composed approach, leveraging its expertise in hybrid technology. Though not initially at the forefront of the EV race, Toyota is strategically expanding its electric vehicle portfolio. Their approach emphasizes a multi-pathway strategy, integrating diverse powertrains. This measured tactic appears to be proving successful, particularly as some EV manufacturers are scaling back investments amidst slower sales.
However, Toyota is actively developing its EV offerings. Currently, the bZ4x represents their sole battery-electric vehicle in North America. Looking ahead, Toyota has ambitious plans for a wave of new EVs, with ten models slated for global release. Notably, a three-row SUV, destined for US production, is anticipated to be named the Bz5x.
The bZ5x was initially showcased as the bZ Large SUV concept in December 2021, among a broader unveiling of Toyota and Lexus electric concepts. Historically, Toyota’s production models closely mirror their concept predecessors. Therefore, the production bZ5x is expected to bear a strong resemblance to the concept, incorporating refinements suitable for everyday driving.
More: Toyota And Suzuki Rumored To Co-Develop bZ Tiny Electric SUV For 2025
Design Expectations for the Toyota bZ5x
Based on speculative renderings, the bZ5x is projected to inherit the distinctive “hammerhead shark” front fascia, a design motif prevalent across Toyota’s EV and hybrid models. Key exterior features may include a sculpted silhouette with subtle plastic cladding, a wraparound greenhouse effect, large alloy wheels, and LED taillights that extend prominently onto the rear fenders.
Spacious Interior and Family-Oriented Design
In terms of size, the bZ5x is anticipated to be approximately 197 inches (5,000mm) in length, positioning it as the all-electric equivalent to the Toyota Highlander and a direct competitor to the Kia EV9. The inherent packaging advantages of an electric platform should translate to a more spacious cabin for passengers and increased cargo capacity within its three-row, 7-seater configuration. This design emphasizes family-friendliness, prioritizing space and practicality as key selling points for the bZ5x.
While Toyota has not yet released interior visuals of the bZ Large SUV concept, it is highly probable that the production bZ5x will adopt a dashboard layout similar to the bZ4x. This is expected to be enhanced with upgraded technology and design cues borrowed from newer Toyota models like the Prius. A comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), incorporating the latest Toyota Safety Sense features, is also anticipated, aiming to elevate the overall driving experience of the bZ5x.
Performance, Range, and Charging Capabilities
Toyota has remained tight-lipped regarding the specific technical details of the three-row bZ5x SUV. However, it is reasonable to expect that it will be built upon a stretched version of Toyota’s e-TNGA architecture. Given its larger dimensions and increased weight compared to the bZ4x, a higher-capacity battery pack is likely. This would result in an extended driving range and improved faster charging capabilities for the bZ5x. Performance-wise, Toyota is expected to incorporate a dual electric motor configuration, providing all-wheel drive (AWD) and quick acceleration, positioning it as a strong competitor against vehicles like the Kia EV9 in the electric SUV market.
US Production of the Toyota bZ5x Confirmed
It is officially confirmed that production of this new three-row electric SUV will commence at Toyota’s Kentucky manufacturing plant in 2025. This facility currently produces the popular Camry and RAV4 hybrid models. Battery supplies for the bZ5x will be sourced from Toyota’s new battery factory in North Carolina. This plant has recently received an additional $8 billion investment to significantly increase production capacity, aiming for ten operational battery production lines. This move underscores Toyota’s commitment to US-based EV production and supply chains for the bZ5x.
Subaru and Lexus Derivatives
The Toyota bZ5x is also anticipated to serve as the foundation for a Subaru-branded electric SUV, mirroring the collaborative approach seen with the Toyota bZ4x and Subaru Solterra. This Subaru version, yet to be named, will also be manufactured at Toyota’s Kentucky plant, offering another electric SUV option for the US market. While likely sharing visual similarities with the Toyota bZ5x, the Subaru model may incorporate unique Subaru-specific design elements and brand identity.
The Lexus Electrified SUV concept, unveiled alongside the Toyota bZ Large concept in 2021, shares the same underlying architecture. Their comparable proportions and greenhouse designs suggest that Lexus is also developing its own version of the upcoming bZ5x. Similar to the Lexus RZ, which shares its platform with the Toyota bZ4x and Subaru Solterra, the larger Lexus SUV is expected to differentiate itself through distinctive design, a more luxurious and technologically advanced interior, and potentially a higher-performance dual-motor powertrain, justifying its premium Lexus branding and price point.
We will continue to provide updates on the Toyota bZ5x as more information becomes available. With a planned launch in 2025, we anticipate seeing camouflaged prototypes on roads soon, and potentially even concept vehicles that are closer to the final production design. Stay connected for further details on the bZ5x and Toyota’s expanding EV lineup.
Note: The speculative illustrations in this article are not affiliated with or endorsed by Toyota.
