The car for everyday life.
The great team at Bridge Toyota Darwin were kind enough to loan us the Toyota bZ4X for a few days so we could give it a proper test run. Having that extra time behind the wheel really let us experience the car in everyday life, school runs, shopping trips and a few fun drives just to see what it could do. It made a huge difference being able to live with it, not just take a quick spin around the block.
The Toyota bZ4X strikes a perfect balance in size being bigger than a Corolla Cross, smaller than a RAV4, and honestly, the sweet spot if you want something easy to park but still roomy enough for everyday life.
Interior & Design
Inside, Toyota did a beautiful job. The cabin feels airy and modern, with a minimalistic layout that doesn’t feel cold or empty. I love the glossy, mirror-like finish on the centre console—it adds a stylish, that elevates the whole interior. The front materials feel soft and premium, giving it a cozy vibe rather than that hard, plasticky feel some EVs have.
The seating position is comfortable, with plenty of legroom, and the back seats don’t feel cramped at all. The panoramic roof (depending on the trim) adds great natural light, which is something I personally love in an SUV.
Tech & Convenience
Large 12.3-inch touchscreen that’s bright and easy to navigate
• Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, because cables should be optional
• Qi wireless phone charger that actually holds your phone in place
• Multiple USB-C ports so everyone can stay charged
• Digital gauge cluster that sits higher, almost like a mini heads-up display
And yes, the push gear toggle is such a nice touch. It’s simple, intuitive, and it makes the whole console feel clean and uncluttered.
Performance and drivetrain
The acceleration is surprisingly quick. EVs are known for instant torque, but Toyota’s take on it feels smooth, confident, and snappy without jerking you around
• FWD model: 150kW power and 266Nm of torque.
• AWD model: Dual-motor electric system with 160kW power and 337Nm of torque.
• Range: Up to 535km for the FWD model and 485km for the AWD model.
• Charging: AC charging Mode 2 and Mode 3 charging cables come as standard, with dedicated home charger options available (additional costs apply) Supports 150kW DC fast charging, reaching 80% in about 30-45 minutes.
Final Thoughts
The Toyota bZ4X feels like a well-rounded, stylish EV that doesn’t try too hard. It’s quick, comfortable, practical, and tech-forward, with a design that feels genuinely thoughtful. If you want something that looks good, drives smoothly, and makes everyday life easier, this is a good choice.
Environmental Impact
By driving an EV, you’re actively helping to reduce air pollution and cut down greenhouse gas emissions, which means you’re contributing to a cleaner, healthier planet. Win win for all!
Financial Perks: Salary Packaging & FBT Exemption
Also, one of the biggest advantages of going electric, is the huge tax savings when you salary package an EV. Because of the government’s FBT (Fringe Benefits Tax) exemption for eligible electric vehicles, you can include not just the finance repayments, but also the running costs (insurance, maintenance, tyres, registration, charging,) in your pre-tax salary deductions. That means you lower your taxable income significantly. For many people, this can mean tens of thousands of dollars in savings over a typical lease.
This isn’t just a small perk — it’s a major financial incentive to go electric, and it makes cars like the bZ4X even more compelling.
