While Toyota may have thought it was clever when it came up with the name for the bZ4X EV, it hasn’t been particularly well received. As a result, a change is reportedly coming soon, according to the regional director for Toyota Canada in Quebec.
While recently speaking with members of Canada’s automotive media, Patrick Ryan revealed that the electric SUV is going to be rebranded. He did not say when, but it could be for the 2026 model year as the 2025 model has already been presented and keeps the bZ4X name.
The current name stands for ‘Beyond Zero’, the ‘4’ represents its size, and the ‘X’ references it being a crossover, notes Motor Illustrated. While it kind of makes sense, the name doesn’t roll off the tongue particularly well, and it just sounds a little bit silly.
We get it, car manufacturers love using alphanumerical names for their cars nowadays. However, they’re often hard to remember and simply don’t stand out like those with real names. Heck, even the Subaru twin to the bZ4X has a real name and is dubbed the Solterra.
Ryan did not say if the name change will only be regional or if it is something that Toyota plans to change globally, although the latter would seem a little more logical. Except for the RAV4, all of Toyota’s current models in the US have real names, rather than random numbers and letters that have been jumbled together. Hopefully, Toyota will be able to come up with a proper name for its electric crossover and we won’t have to wait too long to hear it.
Toyota has announced the 2025 bZ4X will start at $37,070, which is $6,000 less than its predecessor.
The reduction comes shortly after Lexus dropped RZ pricing by more than $11,000.
Limited gains additional equipment, while there’s a new Nightshade Edition based on the XLE AWD.
Lexus recently slashed the price of the 2025 RZ to $43,975 which meant it was $490 cheaper than the 2024 Toyota bZ4X. The mainstream brand is now addressing that discrepancy by cutting the cost of entry to $37,070 before a $1,395 destination and handling fee.
That’s $6,000 less than last year’s model, but the crossover still costs significantly more than the Chevrolet Equinox EV, which starts at $33,600 and has an EPA-estimated range of 319 miles (513 km). That compares to a mere 252 miles (406 km) for the most efficient version of the bZ4X.
The range-topping Limited trim starts at $41,800 for a reduction of $5,380. While the price cut isn’t as drastic as on the XLE, buyers will find three new driver assistance systems. They include Front Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Change Assist, and Traffic Jam Assist. The latter system is the most notable as it allows for hands-free operation at speeds under 25 mph (40 km/h) on controlled access freeways.
The other big change for 2025 is a new Nightshade Edition. It starts at $40,420 and is based on the XLE with all-wheel drive.
The model has black badging, black door handles, a black spoiler, and 20-inch wheels with a black finish. Buyers will also find a leather-wrapped steering wheel as well as SofTex and fabric-trimmed seats with red contrast stitching.
The 2025 bZ4X is slated to arrive at dealerships early next year and customers will find a familiar powertrain lineup. Front-wheel drive variants have a 71.4 kWh battery pack that powers a 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) electric motor. All-wheel drive models have a slightly larger 72.8 kWh battery and a dual-motor setup producing a combined output of 214 hp (160 kW / 217 PS).
Toyota isn’t expected to make many significant changes to the 2025 bZ4X.
The electric SUV is offered with $10,000 in lease cash across several US regions.
However, shoppers can still pick up a 2024 bZ4X with $16,250 in lease cash, so it may be the better option.
Toyota is getting ready to launch the 2025 bZ4X, but it’s already sweetening the deal with some hefty leasing and financing incentives, before you even get a glimpse of the new model at dealerships.
The 2025 Toyota bZ4X is currently available with up to $10,000 in lease cash in select US regions, including Los Angeles, Boston, Denver, Portland, and San Francisco, until January 6, 2025. Final lease terms are still under wraps, but Toyota’s offering a deal that essentially amounts to 0% financing, likely in a bid to pull more people that it already has into its electric crossover, developed in partnership with Subaru.
If you want to walk away with an electric Toyota at a compelling rate, you’re not just limited to the 2025 model. The outgoing 2024 version is also offered with an even bigger $16,250 lease incentive in many regions across the country and a money factor equivalent to 0% APR.
According to Cars Direct, residents in Southern California can pick up the keys to one for $219 per month for 36 months with a $2,999 downpayment. That works out to be the equivalent of $302 per month and while it’s not the single cheapest new EV on the market to lease, it is very affordable and even cheaper to lease than a 2025 Toyota Corolla, underscoring Toyota’s aggressive push to make EVs accessible.
Very few changes are expected for the 2025 bZ4X. It may get a few new trim options, but mechanically, it will likely be identical to the model it replaces. It should also hit the market with a largely unchanged exterior and interior. The bZ4X is currently offered with single and dual-motor versions, rated at 201 hp and 214 hp respectively.
For those of you set on grabbing the 2025 model, financing deals are also on the table: 0% APR for 72 months, plus $2,500 in Toyota Financial Services Subvention Cash. It’s not going to set the world on fire, but for what’s essentially a tweak on an existing model, it’s a smart way to move metal while keeping the price competitive.
The all-new Urban Cruiser EV expands Toyota’s growing SUV lineup in Europe.
The model is a twin to the Suzuki e-Vitara, with a Toyota-specific face.
It is available with 3 power outputs (FWD/AWD) and 2 battery options.
Toyota’s latest entry into the ever-growing electric SUV game, the Urban Cruiser, has just been unveiled. And let’s be honest, if you think it looks familiar, you’re right. It’s basically a Suzuki e-Vitara in disguise, just with a Toyota badge and some slightly sharper edges. The Urban Cruiser is available in both FWD and AWD, offering what Toyota claims is a “spacious” cabin, for its size, at least.
Sizing Up the Urban Cruiser’s Footprint
Measuring 4,285 mm (168.7 inches) long, the Urban Cruiser slots in between the Yaris Cross and the C-HR in Toyota’s crowded European SUV lineup. Its exterior is heavily influenced by last year’s Urban SUV Concept, with just enough toned-down features to make it acceptable for production—basically, Toyota’s way of saying, “We liked that design, but we needed it to be less ‘concept car’ and more ‘can sell in 2025.’”
Now, if you’re wondering what makes it distinctly Toyota, it’s the face. Hammerhead headlights and unique tail light graphics set it apart from its Suzuki twin, but that’s pretty much where the differences end. Oh, and the wheels, they’re identical to the e-Vitara’s, so don’t bother squinting too hard when you spot one on the road.
Interior
The same goes for the interior, which features a bulky digital cockpit with a 10.25-inch instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch infotainment screen. The floating center console is decked out in glossy black inserts, paired with dark-themed upholstery. Options include a JBL premium audio system and a fixed sunroof, while all trims come standard with an array of ADAS.
Despite the small footprint of the Urban Cruiser, Toyota claims that the interior can be as spacious as a midsize SUV offering. This is made possible by the EV underpinnings and the generous wheelbase of 2,700 mm (106.3 inches), which is 140 mm (5.5 inches) longer compared to the Yaris Cross. Furthermore, the rear bench seats have sliding and reclining functions for added practicality.
Powertrain Options
As with its Suzuki twin, the Toyota Urban Cruiser rides on an EV-dedicated architecture and will be available with three power outputs and two lithium-iron phosphate battery options. The FWD models deliver 142 hp (106 kW / 144 PS) or 172 hp (128 kW / 174 PS) from a single electric motor, while the AWD version is good for 182 hp (135 kW / 184 PS) from a dual-motor setup. The smaller 49 kWh battery is exclusively available with FWD, while the 61 kWh unit can be had with both FWD and AWD.
WLTP range figures haven’t been disclosed yet, but the Urban Cruiser does feature an energy-saving heat pump for the A/C and a manually activated battery pre-heating function—ideal for colder climates.
Market Debut
The Toyota Urban Cruiser will make its first public outing at the 2025 Brussels Motor Show in January. Pricing will be announced closer to market launch in Europe sometime next year.
Toyota states that it is committed to achieving zero CO2 emissions in Europe by 2035 and full carbon neutrality by 2040. The automaker aims to have 15 zero-emission vehicles in its lineup by 2026, including six BEVs on a dedicated platform.
The SUV has been designed exclusively for the Chinese market and will be built with GAC.
Powering entry-level models is a 50 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery pack.
Despite the SUV’s bargain price, it comes loaded with driver assistance systems.
The electric vehicle market in China is increasingly becoming a battleground for automakers looking to offer more for less, and Toyota’s latest entry, the bZ3X, promises to shake things up. Launched in partnership with Toyota’s GAC joint venture, this electric SUV is priced to undercut much of the competition, starting at just 100,000 yuan ($13,800) and capping out at 200,000 yuan ($27,500). With first deliveries slated for March next year, Toyota is making a serious play for value-conscious EV buyers.
Compact Power, Long(ish) Range
The entry-level model, known as the 430 Air+, comes equipped with a 50.03 kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery pack. That’s quite a small pack for an SUV of this size, but Toyota says it’s good for 430 km (267 miles) of range on a single charge. However, this is under the CLTC cycle, which is known to bequite generous. This battery powers a single electric motor with a quoted 221 hp (165 kW).
In addition to the 430 Air+, the SUV will also be available in 520 Pro+ and 620 Max forms, although limited details about these variants are known. If the naming strategy is any indication, they could have 520 km (323 miles) and 620 km (385 miles) of range respectively, which might necessitate a larger battery pack.
The bZ3X is sized competitively within the compact SUV segment, measuring 4,600 mm (181.1 inches) in length, 1,875 mm (73.8 inches) in width, and 1,645 mm (64.7 inches) in height, with a wheelbase of 2,765 mm (108.8 inches). It has a curb weight of 1,835 kg (4,045 lbs).
Toyota has been working on the bZ3X for quite some time and previewed it earlier in the year alongside the smaller bZ3C crossover. The cabin of the bZ3X seems to be quite well-equipped and as standard, includes a 14.6-inch infotainment display and an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster. It also rocks a two-spoke steering wheel, a wireless phone charger, and a split center console. An 11-speaker Yamaha audio system comes standard.
Perhaps most impressive is all the safety technologies that Toyota has crammed into its new EV. It’s equipped with no less than 11 high-definition cameras, three millimeter-wave radars, a lidar, and 12 ultrasonic sensors, enabling a raft of driver-assistance systems.
The delay gives Toyota more time to refine its gigacasting production methods.
Both Lexus EVs will feature advanced prismatic battery cells for improved performance.
The EVs are expected to offer a driving range of approximately 621 miles (1,000 km).
Toyota has long been regarded as a bit of a slow mover in the electric vehicle race, but it’s proving that it’s anything but predictable. At the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, the company made a splash by unveiling two striking Lexus EVs, with promises of their arrival in 2026. Yet, just 14 months later, a new report indicates those plans are now on hold.
According to a report from Japan’s NHK, production of the Lexus LF-ZC and LF-ZL have now be postponed until mid-2027. Unlike many of its competitors, who are slowing EV rollouts due to demand concerns, Toyota’s delay appears to stem from a more strategic reason. The company is taking extra time to refine its manufacturing processes, particularly the implementation of gigacasting.
The Lexus LF-ZC and LF-ZL are important vehicles for the Toyota family and feature advanced designs and technologies that will trickle down to other models. Both are to be underpinned by a new EV architecture made from a gigacasted modular structure consisting of front, center, and rear portions. Toyota has said the special configuration means the front and rear of the EVs are structurally independent, allowing it to integrate new and improved batteries in the future.
Speaking of batteries, the new Lexus EVs are set to feature cutting-edge prismatic battery cells, which Toyota promises will deliver a range of up to 1,000 kilometers (621 miles). That’s impressive, especially considering that Toyota isn’t typically one to make exaggerated claims.
Last year, it was also revealed that the new Lexus EVs will be produced at an advanced assembly plant. According to the company, vehicles will be able to drive themselves autonomously with just the battery, motor, tries, and wireless terminal components, allowing it to ditch traditional conveyor belts on the production line.
The LF-ZC and LF-ZL aren’t the only victims of Toyota’s evolving EV timeline. In October, the company revealed that its three-row electric SUV—set to be produced at the Kentucky plant—would also be delayed. Originally planned for a 2025 launch, the SUV’s debut has been pushed back to mid-2026, adding to Toyota’s growing list of postponed EVs.
Toyota Australia teamed up with The Wiggles to create a new one-off EV stage car.
The Big Red Ute features Land Cruiser-inspired styling, chunky tires, and a vibrant livery.
The tiny off-roader is powered by a 48V electric powertrain and has a 12 mph top speed.
In a world where cars are often either all business or all spectacle, Toyota has gone for something a bit different. The automaker has unveiled a one-off electric vehicle designed for the popular Australian children’s music group The Wiggles. Dubbed the Big Red Ute, it combines playful design with Toyota’s off-road heritage, and while it may look like a bit of a gimmick, there’s some genuine engineering at work beneath the colorful exterior.
Designed and developed locally by Toyota’s Product, Planning, and Development division, the Big Red Ute isn’t just a show pony. While this one-off clearly serves a specific purpose, some of its styling elements could hint at the upcoming ‘baby’ Toyota FJ Cruiser.
The front end draws from the tough, utilitarian design of Toyota’s classic Cruiser J70, with a playful twist. The headlights, for instance, are LED screens that can display everything from pupils to hearts. Muscular fenders, exposed wheels, and underbody protection reinforce the pickup’s off-road character, while the 3,120 mm (122.8 inches) length keeps it compact enough for the stage without losing presence. The same applies to the chunky tires wrapped around the rainbow-themed 12-inch Turbofan wheels.
The exposed cabin accommodates four passengers, each with their own seatbelt attached to the oversized bull bar. Adding to the fun, there’s an integrated bubble machine at the rear, capable of producing 6,000 bubbles per minute, a feature guaranteed to captivate toddlers.
Toyota Australia
The name Big Red Ute is inspired by the latest song release from The Wiggles, while the colorful livery mirrors the Toyota Hilux featured in the music video.
Despite its toy-like appearance, this one-off is a fully functional vehicle, powered by a 48V electric powertrain, independent coil spring suspension, and drum brakes. Naturally, the top speed is limited to 20 km/h (12 mph), because, really, no “ute” needs to go faster than that on a music stage.
The Big Red Ute made its debut on December 7, when The Wiggles performed in Melbourne. The EV will accompany the band on the remainder of their Australian tour, before joining them for their global tour dates. The Wiggles have been around for three decades, earning the title of “the world’s most popular children’s entertainment group.”
A group of leading automakers is urging the incoming Trump administration to retain tax credits for electric cars.
Ford, GM, Stellantis, Toyota, VW and others say they are worried about the threat posed by subsidized EVs from China.
The companies also said they wanted to fast-track self-driving cars and scrap the 2029 auto-emergency braking mandate.
Automakers in the US have joined forces to ask Donald Trump not to scrap EV tax credits when he takes office next January. Volkswagen, GM, Toyota and other companies have invested tens of billions in developing electric vehicles and adapting plants to build them, and are worried they’ll be rendered uncompetitive if the incoming Republican government axes the sweetener.
Writing to Trump in a November 12 letter that has only recently come to light, the Alliance for Automotive Innovation argued that the incentives made available via President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act helped ensure America’s auto industry was “globally competitive” at a time when automakers are increasingly worried about the threat posed by their Chinese rivals.
But in the same letter the automakers also expressed their concern about “federal and state emissions regulations (particularly in California and affiliated states) that are out-of-step with current auto market realities and increase costs for consumers,” Reuters reports.
Biden’s team introduced tough tailpipe rules that get increasingly tighter the closer we get to 2035, the date California wants to ban the sale of combustion cars, a move that will be echoed in other states as well. But the automakers say this can only be achieved by selling more EVs, despite dealers finding that most customers would still rather have a combustion car or a hybrid.
Given Trump’s known stance on green matters – he previously rolled back President Obama’s emissions regulations, and his team has vowed to attack Biden’s rules – it seems entirely possible that automakers will be given more time to clean up their cars’ CO2 outputs. However, Politico reports that Trump probably won’t be able to claw back the $7.5 billion already earmarked for charging infrastructure projects because the funds have been committed.
The automakers also urged Trump to make legislative changes that would help speed up the development and rollout of self-driving cars. But when it came to automatic emergency braking, which the Democrats have insisted must be mandatory (and meet a tough universal standard) from 2029, the car companies asked for more time.
A new study has revealed the models that are expected to have the highest resale values after three years of ownership.
Lexus had the most model-level awards, but GM racked up five wins including two for the GMC Hummer EV lineup.
The Dodge Charger Daytona is expected to be the electric vehicle resale champ.
Depreciation is a fact of life, but what you buy has a big impact on resale values down the line. To help consumers, J.D. Power has released their 2025 U.S. ALG Residual Value Awards which highlight the vehicles that are projected to hold the highest percentage of their manufacturer’s suggested retail price after three years of ownership.
The winners aren’t exactly a surprise as Honda and Lexus walked away with top honors for the fourth consecutive year. J.D. Power’s Danny Battaglia credited part of this success to Honda’s pricing discipline as well as Lexus’ restraint on incentives, which can negatively impact resale values of older vehicles.
Besides being named the best premium brand, Lexus picked up the most model-level awards. Class honors went to the IS, LS, NX, RX, and TX. Their mainstream counterpart, Toyota, also picked up awards for the Camry and GR Supra as well as the Tundra and Land Cruiser.
Japanese models dominated the rankings as Honda scored wins for the Civic, Passport and Odyssey, while Subaru picked up accolades for the Crosstrek, Forester, and WRX. Other awards went to the Acura Integra and Nissan Kicks.
American brands might have played second fiddle, but GM racked up five wins. The Chevrolet Corvette was named the best “midsize premium sporty car,” while the Cadillac Escalade was the best large premium SUV. GMC also picked up awards for the Sierra 3500 HD as well as the Hummer EV Pickup and SUV.
Interestingly, the soon to be launched Dodge Charger Daytona was named the best electric car. While it remains to be seen what resale values will look like three years from now, electric coupes are virtually unheard of in America so the Charger Daytona doesn’t really have any competition.
Sticking with EVs, the Tesla Model 3 was dubbed the best premium electric car. The Hyundai Kona EV, on the other hand, was named best electric SUV.
Awards were also given to the BMW X1 and 5-Series, Jeep Gladiator and Wagoneer, and Kia Telluride. Mercedes’ only win was for the Sprinter, which took the commercial van class.
Toyota plans to nearly double production from 1.75 million last year to 3 million by decade’s end.
The company also aims to consolidate its two Chinese joint ventures to improve efficiency.
The plan will require significant investments that other Japanese automakers aren’t willing to make.
Toyota is doubling down on its ambitions for the Chinese market, aiming to produce as many as 3 million vehicles annually in the country as it fights to claw back market share lost to surging domestic brands like BYD. The move seems to reflect Toyota’s acknowledgment of the challenges it faces in the world’s largest car market, where local brands have steadily gained ground by offering competitive, well-suited products that resonate with Chinese buyers.
According to three sources familiar with the matter, who spoke on condition of anonymity to Reuters, Toyota plans to significantly increase production in China by the end of the decade, although no formal target has been set. This would represent a substantial rise from the 1.75 million vehicles Toyota produced locally last year and a 63% increase over the 1.84 million it built in 2022, which was a record for the company.
The same insiders claim that Toyota has informed some of its suppliers about the planned ramp-up in production. In addition, the company aims to bring its two Chinese joint ventures closer together to improve efficiency and plans to empower local staff to lead much of the development, leveraging their understanding of Chinese consumer preferences.
The company also plans to consolidate vehicle production across its joint ventures into a single operation in the future. While models will be produced at one location, they will continue to be offered across both dealership networks, signaling a more unified approach to its fragmented local strategy.
Toyota has not commented on the specifics of the report but acknowledged the uphill battle it faces in China. “With the intense competition in the Chinese market, we are constantly considering various initiatives,” the company stated.
The struggles of Toyota aren’t unique among legacy carmakers in China. Established brands like Honda and Nissan have already scaled back their production capacity, while Mitsubishi has thrown in the towel altogether, exiting the market entirely. Meanwhile, local automakers like BYD are rapidly gaining ground, delivering compelling products at competitive prices that resonate with Chinese consumers.
Toyota has made some efforts to localize its offerings. One example is the bZ3C, an electric sedan designed specifically for China. It’s equipped with a lithium-iron-phosphate battery pack from BYD’s FinDreams battery division, boasting a range of 500-600 km (310-372 miles).
The number of mainstream buyers paying over sticker has dropped 7% in the past year.
Lower prices and increased inventory has made the car buying process more satisfying.
Porsche provides the best buying experience, while Chrysler the worst, according to the study.
America is a deeply divided country, but there’s one thing that unites all of us – hatred of car dealers. However, a new study suggests things are getting slightly better.
According to J.D. Power, overall customer satisfaction with purchasing a vehicle climbed from a score of 793 last year to 801 in 2024. That’s basically an 80% grade as scores are based on a 1,000 point scale.
So what’s behind the improvement? Pricing and inventory. The shortages and markups from the pandemic have largely subsided, meaning some of the power has shifted from dealers back to consumers.
Given these developments, it’s not surprising to learn the number of people paying over MSRP has dropped significantly. J.D. Power says 15% of mass market buyers paid over sticker last year, but that number dropped to 8% in 2024. For premium buyers, the number fell from 10% to 6%.
While everyone can get onboard with lower prices, dealers still have a lot of work to do in regards to personnel, paperwork, and delivery. It also appears the EV buying experience is significantly worse than that of an ICE-powered vehicle.
The buyer satisfaction score for mass market ICE-powered vehicles was 857, but just 822 for EVs. J.D. Power also noted a “similar pattern exists among buyers of premium vehicles.”
Part of this appears to be a lack of dealership employees knowledgeable about electric vehicles. However, even Tesla buyers had “markedly lower satisfaction with the effectiveness of the vehicle features explanation.”
Among premium brands, sales satisfaction was highest at Porsche. They were followed by Infiniti and Jaguar. Genesis got a dismal rating of 781, while Alfa Romeo was second to last with a significantly higher score of 810. That put them two points behind Mercedes and Lexus.
On the mainstream side of things, top honors went to Mini, Buick, and Subaru. Chrysler, Mitsubishi, and Toyota were the worst.
Suzuki has revealed the India-built eVitara, the firm’s first fully electric car, and the basis for a new Toyota bZ SUV.
The front-wheel drive eVitara comes with a choice of 49 kWh and 61 kWh batteries and 142 hp or 172 hp motors.
An all-wheel drive version of the eVitara increases power output to 181 hp with added rear motor.
Fifteen years after the Nissan Leaf made EVs a reality for buyers with real-world budgets, and just as many other automakers are scaling back their own battery-vehicle plans, Suzuki has finally unveiled its first electric car. The eVitara is built in India, but will be exported to other markets alongside a Toyota bZ-branded sister car that’s yet to debut.
Though it wears the Vitara name, the eVitara has very little in common with the automaker’s nine-year-old combustion-powered utility. The production version of last year’s eVX concept rides on Suzuki’s Heartect-e EV platform and shares the show car’s boxy wheelarches, slim grille and the kicked-up window line.
At 4,275mm (168.3 inches) it’s also 100 mm (3.9 inches) longer than the existing Vitara and the 2,700 mm (106.3 inches) wheelbase is 200 mm (7.9 inches) bigger, so it should be much roomier for passengers. Base cars come with a 49 kWh battery and 142 hp (144 PS / 106 kW) motor driving the front wheels, but upgrading to the bigger 61 kWh battery bumps the pony count to 172 hp (174 PS / 128 kW) while maintaining torque at 140 lb-ft (190 Nm). No range figures have been released.
Going for the larger battery also unlocks the possibility of all-wheel drive, made possible by adding a 64 hp (65 PS / 48 kW) motor to the rear axle. The total system output only comes to 181 hp (184 PS /135 kW) but the 221 lb-ft (300 Nm) torque peak should make itself felt, and help offset a 4190-lbs (1,899 kg) curb weight that’s 434 lbs (197 kg) up on the entry-level 2WD model.
The interior looks surprisingly un-budget thanks to the fashionable slab of glass that covers two thirds of the upper dashboard and combines a digital instrument pack and center touchscreen. Suzuki says the cabin features “robust-looking coatings” (let’s hope they really are robust and don’t just look it) to reflect a “High-Tech and Adventure” theme.
And to help you in your adventuring quests Suzuki’s Allgrip-e system includes a Trail mode that uses the brakes to mimic the operation of a traditional limited slip differential. We’ll have to wait to see if the eVitara can outclimb and outcrawl the automaker’s Jimny. We don’t like its chances.
The eVitara enters production at Suzuki Motor Gujarat’s plant in India in spring 2025 and sales to Europe, India and Japan start in the summer. The same plant will also build Toyota’s version of the SUV, which it has yet to reveal, but was previewed by last year’s Urban SUV concept.
A Japanese report suggests Toyota’s FT-Se EV could debut in 2027 alongside a gas-powered version.
Advanced battery tech from Lexus’s LF-ZC could give the electric model a serious boost in range.
The ICE model will reportedly feature a new 2.0-liter turbocharged four paired with an AWD system.
The world needs more low-slung sports cars, and Toyota might just be gearing up to deliver not one, but two versions of last year’s FT-Se concept. At least, that’s what the rumor mill from Japan suggest.
This isn’t the first time that talk of a production FT-Se has surfaced. Yet, as with many rumors trickling out of Japan, some details remain murky and, often, contradictory. Over the years, reports have bounced between an electric-only model and a gasoline-powered variant (with various types of engines), leaving us to wonder if Toyota itself has made up its mind.
Some sources have even hinted at the notion of two separate mid-engine-style sports cars; one electric, one gasoline. But let’s be realistic here. Developing two nearly identical sports cars with entirely different powertrains doesn’t exactly scream financial prudence, especially in a segment where profit margins are slim, and buyers are few. The more plausible scenario? Toyota might follow the Dodge Charger playbook, offering a single sports car with the option of either an internal combustion or electric powertrain.
The ICE Option
Before we get to the EV, we’ll remind you that, according to the most recent reports, Toyota’s GR division plans to drop in their forthcoming 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, punching out 400 horsepower to all four wheels. If the whispers hold any truth, we might see this variant as soon as 2026. A mid-engined, AWD coupe packing that kind of power would definitely keep things interesting.
Electric Version Coming in 2027?
Then, just a year later in 2027, the all-electric version is expected to follow. According to sources from Best Car, Toyota’s electric sports car will feature next-generation batteries and dual motors, one at each axle. The base model is rumored to produce around 400 hp (298 kW), while a high-performance variant could push the envelope with upwards of 500 hp (373 kW).
The EV’s innovative battery is reportedly going to use the same technology as the upcoming Lexus LF-ZC, a car that promises to showcase Toyota’s latest advancements in electric power. These batteries will use a prismatic structure, which is said to reduce weight and significantly improve range. The LF-ZC will also have a low center of gravity because the battery modules are slimmer than traditional ones.
While Toyota already has the GR 86 and Supra in its family of sports cars, an enthusiast one could argue that there’s still room for an electric offering. The most powerful version of the Supra tops out at 382 hp, and while a more potent GRMN version is in the works, it isn’t expected to get close to the 500 hp mark like the EV could.
As for design, there’s no word on how close the production model could look to the FT-Se, but we do suspect many of the concept’s key design features will make their way to the road car. It’ll also be relatively compact too, reportedly measuring 4,380 mm (172.4 inches) long, 1,895 mm (74.6 inches) wide, and standing 1,220 mm (48 inches) tall, making it just 1 mm (0.03 inches) longer than the Supra, 41 mm (1.6 inches) wider, and sitting 74 mm (2.9 inches) lower. Pricing is rumored to start around 10 million yen (~$67,000).
Sports Coupe Renaissance or Wishful Thinking?
Taking a step back, the barrage of reports about a supposed sea of new GR sports coupes—including the production FT-Se in both ICE and EV guises, a Celica revival, and successors to both the Supra and GR86—leaves us skeptical. Are we really witnessing a sports car renaissance from Toyota, or is this just another fantasy concocted by the rumor mill? The industry’s track record with sports car promises is patchy at best, and it’s hard to shake the suspicion that this could end up as another exercise in “what could have been.” After all, grand ambitions are easy to announce; actually delivering on them (and making a solid business case) is something else entirely.
Suzuki and Toyota will collaborate on fully electric SUVs, set to arrive in spring 2025.
Production will take place in India by Suzuki, with each company offering its own version.
Its EV-specific platform was co-developed by Suzuki, Toyota, and Daihatsu.
Update 10/31: As noted by our readers, the upcoming BEV models will most likely be the production versions of the Suzuki eVX and Toyota Urban SUV concepts. Both electric concepts were introduced in 2023, featuring identical proportions and shared styling cues.
Suzuki and Toyota have announced plans to take their collaborative efforts up a notch, expanding their shared lineup with a new all-electric SUV. Specifically, Suzuki will be supplying Toyota with its upcoming battery-powered SUV, likely resulting in evolved versions of the Suzuki eVX and Toyota Urban SUV concepts. Production is slated to kick off in spring 2025, with a global launch to follow.
The Suzuki eVX concept was originally unveiled in January 2023, but an updated version followed in October 2023, bringing it one step closer to production. In December 2023, Toyota introduced the Urban SUV concept, featuring identical proportions and shared styling with the Suzuki.
Unlike many rival offerings, the SUV twins have been designed exclusively as BEVs, so there’ll be no internal combustion or hybrid variants. This is a ground-up electric vehicle, developed through a joint venture involving Suzuki, Toyota, and Daihatsu.
4WD Capability and Range
It has been confirmed that Suzuki’s first battery-powered model will be available with a 4WD system, promising better off-road credentials than your typical urban-oriented electric crossover. The company also claims it will deliver “ample cruising range and a comfortable cabin”, suggesting a focus on everyday practicality as well as capability. The concept version was equipped with a 60 kWh battery pack, projected to offer a range of around 500 km (311 miles).
Measuring 4,300 mm (169.3 inches) in length, the electric SUVs slot in alongside models like the Suzuki SX4 S-Cross/Vitara and Toyota Yaris Cross. Besides riding on the same underpinnings, the models are expected to share the greenhouse and a number of body panels, albeit with different facial features.
This collaboration marks the first time Toyota and Suzuki have joined forces on a BEV. Production of the new models will begin at Suzuki’s Gujarat plant in India, with a launch targeted for spring 2025. The two companies are planning a worldwide rollout, aiming to capitalize on the “remarkable growth” of the global SUV market. Furthermore, the zero-emission offerings will help both companies get closer to their carbon-neutral goals.
Suzuki President Toshihiro Suzuki expressed gratitude for the deepened collaboration with Toyota, noting that while the two companies remain competitors, they are committed to “solving social issues” and advancing toward a carbon-neutral society through a “multi-pathway approach.”
Toyota President Koji Sato echoed this sentiment, highlighting the shared development of the BEV platform. “This will allow us to deliver various choices that contribute to a carbon-neutral society to customers worldwide,” he said. “We would like to learn from each other’s strengths, compete, and further joint efforts based on a multi-pathway approach.”
Both Toyota and Suzuki have their roots in Enshu, which is the western part of Shizuoka Prefecture in Japan. Their partnership, which began in 2016, initially focused on the mutual supply of vehicles and the gradual push toward electrification. Since then, they’ve been swapping badges across markets from Japan to Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, as well as in Suzuki’s stronghold of India.
Toyota Australia and BHP will conduct a 12-month trial of a Hilux BEV prototype.
This is the first BEV prototype based on a double chassis-cab Toyota Hilux.
A production version of the truck will arrive in Thailand by the end of 2025.
Toyota is pressing forward with its electric Hilux project, unveiling a new prototype built for Australian roads. This Hilux BEV double-cab marks Toyota’s first venture into the all-electric utility truck market, developed in partnership with mining giant BHPP. This zero-emissions workhorse isn’t just for show, as it’s set for a full-year trial in the unforgiving conditions of Australia’s mining operations. Toyota’s goals is gather raw, unfiltered data to shape the future production model and demonstrate that an electric Hilux can meet the rigorous demands of heavy-duty work.
The original Toyota Hilux BEV concept was unveiled in Thailand in December 2022, featuring a single-cab bodystyle. The new prototype is based on a double chassis-cab Hilux, and it looks just like the ICE-powered version, albeit with a charging port on the front fender. Toyota’s given it a few extra touches too, like a fortified front bumper with embedded LEDs and a sturdy bull bar.
BHP will deploy this new BEV prototype at Port Hedland, one of the world’s largest iron ore hubs, situated in Western Australia. For the next 12 months starting in late November, it’ll replace diesel trucks across a “range of applications”. This is no gentle proving ground; if the Hilux BEV can survive here, it can survive almost anywhere.
Toyota is keeping the powertrain details close to its chest. In fact, nearly two years after debuting the concept, we’re still in the dark about the motor’s power output, battery capacity, and expected range.
Matthew Callachor, President and CEO of Toyota Australia said: “Toyota has long advocated a multi-pathway approach towards decarbonization, and when we do something, we want to make sure we do it right”, adding that the trial will provide valuable insights for testing in “harsh and demanding mining environments.”
Geraldine Slattery, BHP President Australia, added: “Our ambition to electrify our light vehicle fleet and lower greenhouse gas emissions across our operations depends on enabling technology that can only be achieved through collaborations like this, with leading suppliers like Toyota. With around 5,000 light vehicles at our sites across Australia, we look forward to putting the Battery Electric HiLux through its paces and seeing the potential it can bring, not only to reduce diesel use in mining but eventually for all HiLux drivers too”.
The announcement follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding by Toyota Australia and BHP in August 2023 to collaborate in safety, engineering, and product development, towards decarbonization.
Electric Hilux For Mining And Private Use
This is not the first time we hear about a fully electric Hilux aiming to replace diesel-powered trucks in mining facilities. Last year, SEA Electric and MEVCO announced an AU $1 billion (US $700 million) deal for building 8,500 EVs over the next five years, based on the Toyota Hilux and Land Cruiser. A similar project for a BEV-converted Hilux had been under development since 2022 by the Australian-based startup ROEV, before being scrapped in 2024 due to limited funding.
As for factory-backed programs, Toyota began testing ten FCEV prototypes of the Hilux in the UK in mid-2024, after unveiling a hydrogen prototype in September 2023.
More importantly, the first commercially available version of the fully electric truck will arrive by the end of 2025. The BEV will initially roll out in Thailand and could be followed by other markets, including Europe.
The eighth generation of the Toyota Hilux has been around since 2017 with subsequent facelifts in 2020, and 2024. This makes us believe that the fully electric variant could be based on the next-generation model. Depending on the market, the BEV will join more traditional diesel and mild-hybrid powertrain options.
Toyota’s Chairman, Akio Toyoda, warns of significant consequences for Japan’s auto industry in an EV-only future.
He predicts that 5.5 million jobs, including positions within Toyota’s supply chain, could be endangered.
Toyoda reaffirmed his support for gasoline vehicles, expressing doubts about fully transitioning to electric-only options.
Toyota Chairman, former CEO, and founding family member Akio Toyoda has always been forthright about his views on EVs. While the Japanese automaker has been reserved about its commitment to an all-electric future, trying to toe the line between alternative fuels, hybrids, and EV adoption, Toyoda has gone on record before saying the push by governments and manufacturers towards banning ICE vehicles was shortsighted.
Now, the Toyota chairman has predicted that if an EV-only future is on the horizon, the automotive sector, especially those working in ICE tech, will lose millions of jobs. He made these remarks during an event at Nagoya University in central Japan, where he was unveiling a bust of his father, Shoichiro Toyoda.
A Threat to Jobs and Suppliers
“There are 5.5 million people involved in the automotive industry in Japan. Among them are those who have been doing engine-related (work) for a long time,” said Toyoda. “If electric vehicles simply become the only choice, including for our suppliers, those people’s jobs would be lost.” According to Reuters, Toyoda followed up these comments by reaffirming his preference for gasoline vehicles.
Toyoda’s comments echo similar remarks he’s made over the years. In addition to predicting industry job losses, the Toyota chairman has also blasted politicians for their push for EVs and claimed that Japan would run out of electricity in the summer if all vehicles were electric. Instead, Toyoda advocates for a more balanced path toward carbon neutrality, one that includes hybrids and cleaner internal combustion engine vehicles.
Toyoda’s outspoken stance hasn’t proven to be a popular one in the past. During his tenure as CEO of Toyota, the company was ranked as the third most obstructive company towards government efforts to curb climate change. Earlier this year, his most recent reelection as chairman was objected to by some investors who feel his outlook is flawed.
Toyota Thrives Amid an EV Slowdown
Despite the controversy, Toyota is currently reaping the benefits of a slowing EV market. While the share of EVs continues to grow, the rate at which it does so has seen a significant slowdown, prompting other automakers such as Ford, GM, and Volvo to reassess their previously EV-heavy strategies. Toyota, on the other hand, is selling more cars than any other manufacturer in the US, largely thanks to its robust (and growing) range of hybrid offerings.
Consumers ‘Bang the Gong’ to celebrate the arrival of their new Toyota at Smart Toyota Madison WI.
Since early 2020, American consumers have had to come to terms with a new kind of normal. Products and services are not as plentiful as we’ve grown accustomed to. Covid-19 and the occasional freak weather patterns have wreaked havoc on a number of industries in many ways, especially in terms of shortages. The restaurant industry is struggling to hire viable and reliable employees. Grocery stores are out of products, specifically goods originating from meat-packing plants. And we all know how paper products like toilet paper were hard to come by for many months. Nearly all industries are having some growing pains adapting to the unavoidable changes taking place, including automobile manufacturers.
Madisonians have noticed the dearth of new vehicles for the past several months when they pass by Smart Toyota on Odana Road. What has been a car lot brimming with options for decades has suddenly become a sort of ghost town with only a handful or so of vehicles on the lot.
“It’s a very noticeable difference,” says Smart Toyota’s sales director Justin Jackson. “We normally have 400 or more new vehicles on the lot, but since mid-April 2021 we’ve seen a steady decline in the number of New Toyotas we have on the lot. Now we only have maybe 5 to 10 new vehicles physically at the store.”
Justin Jackson Sales Director Smart Toyota – Madison, WI
Jackson says the pandemic is partially to blame for the shortage because modern vehicles rely on computer chips which became scarce due to manufacturers reallocating them to industries other than automotive. Then, early in 2021 the issue in new vehicle manufacturing were winter storms that crippled Texas-based businesses that are critical in the manufacturing of foam for seats.
“If it’s not one thing it’s another,” says Jackson. “We’ve got the chips, but because of the power issues Texas faced in the Spring of 2021, we didn’t have enough foam padding for the seats, and today, as production ramps up, it’s supply chain and logistical issues.”
It’s Not All Doom and Gloom
Those looking to purchase a new vehicle seem to understand the slow-down in global manufacturing, Jackson says. Instead of getting upset they can’t drive off the lot with a vehicle they think is “good enough,” consumers are now more apt to customize and pre-order a vehicle specifically made to their specifications.
“It’s kind of cool how people have adapted,” says Jackson. “They might not get that prior sense of immediate gratification of new car ownership, but they get to experience something else: personalization.”
Jackson explains the process of pre-ordering has been well-received for a few reasons, one of which is the compassion the consumer feels about simple logistics as they relate to inventory issues in this day and age.
Vehicle Customization increases satisfaction
“They also really like the fact we can get them exactly what they want; from safety features and amenities, to color preference,” says Jackson. “And when their customized vehicle comes in – usually in about 45 days – they are over the moon when they see the Happy New Car Day sign bearing their name saying the car was made specifically for them. It takes ‘ownership’ to a whole new level.”
Custom Pre-Orders on the Rise
Jackson says about five percent of Smart’s new vehicle sales used to be custom ordered. Today the percentage has skyrocketed to about 50 percent of the dealership’s monthly new car sales. And, Jackson notes, when a consumer has all the customizable options at his or her disposal, no one opts for a base model in order to save a buck or two.
“Often times, though, it’s not options that are the most appealing aspect of pre-ordering,” says Jackson. “Instead, currently, there has been a surge in hybrid vehicle sales. And now in winter, AWD (all-wheel drive) vehicles will see a spike in popularity.”
If you know you are going to order a customized vehicle, Jackson says it might be best to do a little homework prior to meeting with a sales consultant.
“People take a lot of amenities for granted, but if you’re customizing, you should consider some of the following options,” he says.
Custom Pre-Order Checklist
Entertainment & Communications: think about your stereo system. Do you still need a CD player? How about satellite radio capability? Hands-free phone control? A video system? Navigation?
Comfort & Convenience: this includes upholstery, heated/cooled seats, power door locks, keyless entry, dual climate control, etc.
Safety: the simple rule of thumb is the more you can install, the more secure you’ll feel. If you can, opt for dual air bags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, cruise control, and parking assist systems.
Appearance: the most enjoyable aspect of customizing is picking out your paint, trim, and wheels.
Performance: what do you need to get from point A to point B in your daily life? A larger engine? Sport suspension? 4-wheel drive? Automatic transmission or stick?
Jackson says while customers are not complaining right now about having to customize and then wait for their new ride, he anticipates their patience won’t last forever. However, he also doesn’t see new vehicle inventory returning to “normal” in the immediate future, and with customer satisfaction currently at such a high level he’s not overly anxious about it.
“At this point, we do not see ‘ground stock’ (vehicles physically on the lot) back to our previously average levels before the end of the year,” he says. “That could change, but we really don’t see it happening until late 2022.”
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