Tesla Model X vs Toyota BZ4X
- by Carsguide.com.au
- Mar 16, 2024
- 0 Comments
- 0 Likes Flag 0 Of 10
I know the AWD model is essentially the flagship here, but it's actually not the one I'd buy. Sure, it's better off road – in fact, its chief engineer, who also worked on the new Prado, tells me the bZ4X is better off-road than that iconic 4WD, in some ways at least.
And to be fair to Toyota, we did take the AWD models off the tarmac, tackling nothing too challenging, but at least up some steep rocky inclines. But I was left with the nagging question of who the hell is going to take this off the beaten track?
I'll call on the Chief Engineer, Masaya Uchiyama, to answer that one: "Not many people".
And the reality is, the FWD offers more than enough power to satisfy almost anyone, and it's cheaper to boot, without sacrificing much in the way of kit.
No matter which one you choose, though, it's pretty clear pretty quickly that the bZ4X is of the new-generation of Toyota product, one where driving dynamics are finally a priority again.
Which is why, even on the tighter and twister stuff, the electric Toyota steers and grips impressively, with the low-down weight ensuring minimal body movement, and a ride that is definitely tuned on the firmer/sportier side.
It properly engaging to drive, the bZ4X, with its dynamics complemented by that smooth and steady power flow from the EV motors.
So far, so good.
Surprisingly, though, it's in the city (where the Toyota will surely spend the vast majority of its time) where the bZ4X formula begins to fall apart a little bit, where the ride on those 20-inch alloys is just too jarring to be properly comfortable when not on smooth road surfaces. Also, coarse-chip roads interrupt the otherwise quiet cabin experience with a little too much tyre noise.
Not massive issues, though, and I reckon the bZ4X is a genuine competitor to Australia's top-selling EV, the Model Y.
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