Toyota Electric Car bZ3 Review Performance and Features

The Toyota bZ3 delivers impressive performance and advanced features, marking a bold step forward for Toyota in the electric vehicle market. With a smooth, quiet ride, up to 600 km of range, and cutting-edge driver-assistance tech, it combines efficiency with everyday practicality. Its spacious interior, fast-charging capability, and sleek design make it a compelling choice in the competitive EV sedan segment.

Key Takeaways

• Impressive range: Up to 600 km on a single charge for long-distance confidence.
• Fast charging: 30-minute charge from 30% to 80% at compatible stations.
• Smooth performance: Quiet, responsive electric motor with instant torque delivery.
• Spacious interior: Comfortable cabin with ample legroom for all passengers.
• Advanced safety: Equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 for enhanced protection.
• Minimalist design: Clean, modern dashboard with intuitive touchscreen controls.

Toyota Electric Car bZ3 Review: A Glimpse Into the Future

When Toyota announced its entry into the electric vehicle (EV) market with the bZ series, it felt like the automotive giant was finally stepping into the 21st century. The Toyota electric car bZ3 is the first sedan in this lineup, designed specifically for the Chinese market in collaboration with BYD and FAW Toyota. It’s not just another EV trying to keep up with Tesla or Hyundai—it’s a bold statement that Toyota is ready to compete.

I’ve spent time researching and analyzing the bZ3, and what strikes me most is how Toyota has taken a different approach. Instead of chasing the longest range or the fastest acceleration, the bZ3 focuses on practicality, comfort, and affordability. It’s not trying to be the flashiest or the most futuristic. Instead, it feels like Toyota asked, “What do real people want in an electric car?” And then built something that answers that question. In this review, I’ll break down the Toyota electric car bZ3’s performance, features, and how it stacks up in the crowded EV market.

Design and Styling: Sleek, Simple, and Smart

Exterior: Minimalist with a Twist

The Toyota electric car bZ3 doesn’t scream “look at me” like some EVs. Instead, it opts for a clean, minimalist design that feels modern without being over the top. The front is dominated by a full-width LED light bar, which gives it a futuristic vibe, while the closed-off grille (a common EV trait) keeps things aerodynamic. The sloping roofline and sharp character lines add a touch of elegance, making it look more like a premium sedan than a budget-friendly EV.

One thing I appreciate is the attention to detail. The flush door handles, for example, aren’t just a gimmick—they reduce drag and improve efficiency. The 18-inch alloy wheels (available in higher trims) add a sporty touch, but the overall design is more about function than flair. It’s a car that looks good in a parking lot but won’t turn heads in a bad way.

Interior: Spacious and User-Friendly

Step inside, and the bZ3 feels surprisingly spacious. The cabin is designed to maximize roominess, with a flat floor and a low center console. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on longer drives. The dashboard is minimalist, with a large touchscreen dominating the center console and a digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel. It’s not as flashy as some competitors, but it’s intuitive and easy to use.

One standout feature is the “Digital Island”—a rotating center console with a wireless charging pad, cup holders, and a touchscreen for climate and media controls. It’s a clever design that reduces clutter while keeping everything within easy reach. The materials used are mostly soft-touch plastics and fabric, which feels durable but not luxurious. Still, for the price, it’s hard to complain.

Storage and Practicality

With 439 liters of trunk space, the Toyota electric car bZ3 offers plenty of room for groceries, luggage, or even a stroller. The rear seats fold flat (60:40 split), expanding the cargo area for larger items. There’s also a small frunk (front trunk) under the hood, which is perfect for storing the charging cable or other small items.

One practical tip: if you’re planning a road trip, pack light. The bZ3’s trunk is spacious, but the opening is a bit narrow, so bulky items might be tricky to fit. Also, the rear seats don’t recline, which is a small but noticeable downside for long-distance comfort.

Performance and Range: Balanced and Reliable

Power and Acceleration

The Toyota electric car bZ3 comes with two battery options: a 49.92 kWh pack (430 km range) and a 65.28 kWh pack (517 km range). Both use BYD’s Blade Battery technology, which is known for its safety and longevity. The electric motor produces 184 horsepower (135 kW) and 300 Nm of torque, which is more than enough for city driving and highway cruising.

Acceleration is smooth but not thrilling. It’ll go from 0 to 100 km/h in around 7.8 seconds, which is adequate but won’t set your hair on fire. That said, the instant torque from the electric motor makes it feel responsive at lower speeds—perfect for stop-and-go traffic. The ride is comfortable, with well-tuned suspension that absorbs bumps without feeling too soft or too stiff.

Range and Efficiency

The bZ3’s range is competitive, especially for its price. The 517 km version is ideal for daily commutes and weekend trips, while the 430 km version is better suited for city dwellers who don’t need to travel far. Real-world range will vary based on driving habits, weather, and terrain, but you can expect around 85-90% of the claimed range with moderate driving.

One thing to note: cold weather reduces battery efficiency. If you live in a colder climate, consider parking in a garage or using a pre-conditioning feature (available in higher trims) to warm the battery before driving. This helps maintain range and reduces charging time.

Driving Modes and Regenerative Braking

The Toyota electric car bZ3 offers multiple driving modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport. Eco mode maximizes range by limiting acceleration and adjusting climate control, while Sport mode makes the car feel more responsive. The regenerative braking system is adjustable, allowing you to choose between low, medium, and high settings. High regen is great for city driving, as it lets you slow down without touching the brake pedal.

Pro tip: If you’re new to EVs, start with medium regen and gradually increase it as you get used to the one-pedal driving feel. It’s a game-changer once you get the hang of it!

Technology and Connectivity: Modern but Not Overwhelming

Infotainment and User Interface

The bZ3 features a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Toyota’s latest software. It’s fast, responsive, and easy to navigate, with crisp graphics and intuitive menus. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wired only), which is a big plus for smartphone users. There’s also a voice assistant (“Hey, Toyota”) that can control navigation, climate, and media—though it’s not as advanced as some competitors.

The digital instrument cluster is simple but effective, displaying essential info like speed, range, and energy consumption. It’s not as customizable as some rivals, but it gets the job done without being distracting.

Charging and Battery Management

The Toyota electric car bZ3 supports DC fast charging (up to 120 kW) and AC charging (up to 6.6 kW). With a fast charger, you can go from 30% to 80% in about 30 minutes, which is great for long trips. The car also has a battery preconditioning feature that optimizes the battery temperature before charging, reducing charging time and improving efficiency.

For home charging, a 6.6 kW AC charger will fully recharge the 65.28 kWh battery in around 10 hours—perfect for overnight charging. If you don’t have a home charger, public charging stations are widely available in most cities, though availability can vary.

Driver Assistance and Safety

The bZ3 comes with Toyota’s Safety Sense 3.0 suite, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. These features work well, especially in highway driving, where the adaptive cruise control maintains a safe distance from the car ahead without being overly sensitive.

One thing to keep in mind: the lane-keeping assist can feel a bit aggressive at times, especially on winding roads. You can adjust the sensitivity in the settings, but it’s not as smooth as some premium EVs. Still, it’s a solid safety package for the price.

Pricing and Value: Affordable but Not Cheap

Trim Levels and Features

The Toyota electric car bZ3 is available in three trim levels: Elite, Premium, and Flagship. The base Elite trim starts at around 169,800 CNY (~$23,500), while the top-tier Flagship costs 199,800 CNY (~$27,700). Here’s a quick breakdown of what you get:

• Elite: 430 km range, 12.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, dual-zone climate control, and basic driver aids.
• Premium: 517 km range, upgraded interior materials, panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, and enhanced safety features.
• Flagship: All Premium features, plus 18-inch wheels, premium audio, heated seats, and a 360-degree camera.

The Premium trim is the sweet spot for most buyers, offering the best balance of features and price. The Elite trim is a good choice if you’re on a tight budget, while the Flagship is for those who want a bit more luxury.

Value for Money

Compared to rivals like the BYD Seal or the Tesla Model 3, the bZ3 is priced competitively. It’s not the cheapest EV in its class, but it offers Toyota’s reliability and a solid warranty (3 years/100,000 km). The BYD Blade Battery also adds peace of mind, as it’s one of the safest battery technologies on the market.

One thing to consider: the bZ3 is currently only available in China, but Toyota plans to expand it to other markets. If you’re outside China, keep an eye on future announcements—this could be a game-changer for Toyota’s global EV strategy.

Competition and Verdict: How Does It Stack Up?

Key Competitors

The Toyota electric car bZ3 competes with models like the BYD Seal, Tesla Model 3, and Hyundai Ioniq 6. Here’s how it compares:

Model	Range (km)	Price (CNY)	Key Advantage
Toyota bZ3	430-517	169,800-199,800	Toyota reliability, BYD battery tech
BYD Seal	550-700	209,800-289,800	Longer range, sportier design
Tesla Model 3	438-675	231,900-335,900	Supercharger network, Autopilot
Hyundai Ioniq 6	524-614	229,800-289,800	Aerodynamic design, premium interior

Final Verdict

The Toyota electric car bZ3 isn’t the most exciting EV on the market, but it’s one of the most practical. It offers a comfortable ride, decent range, and a user-friendly interior at a competitive price. It’s not trying to be the fastest or the flashiest—it’s just a good, reliable car that happens to be electric.

If you’re looking for a no-nonsense EV with Toyota’s legendary reliability and a focus on real-world usability, the bZ3 is a strong contender. It’s not perfect—the infotainment could be more advanced, and the driving experience isn’t as engaging as some rivals—but it’s a solid choice for anyone who values practicality over performance.

In a world where EVs often prioritize specs over substance, the Toyota electric car bZ3 is a refreshing reminder that sometimes, less is more. It’s not the future of electric cars—it’s the present, and it’s here to stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Toyota electric car bZ3 and how does it perform?

The Toyota bZ3 is an all-electric sedan developed in partnership with BYD and FAW Toyota, designed to deliver efficient performance and long-range capability. It features a rear-wheel-drive motor producing up to 245 horsepower, offering smooth acceleration and a top speed of 160 km/h.

What is the driving range of the Toyota bZ3 on a single charge?

The Toyota bZ3 offers an impressive driving range of up to 600 kilometers (CLTC) on a single charge, making it suitable for both daily commutes and longer trips. This range is powered by a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery supplied by BYD, known for its durability and safety.

Does the Toyota bZ3 support fast charging?

Yes, the Toyota bZ3 supports fast charging, allowing the battery to be charged from 30% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes using a DC fast charger. This feature enhances convenience for drivers on the go and reduces downtime during long journeys.

What are the key technology features inside the Toyota bZ3?

The Toyota bZ3 comes equipped with a 12.3-inch central touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a digital instrument cluster. It also includes Toyota’s latest safety suite with advanced driver-assistance systems for a smarter, safer drive.

How does the Toyota bZ3 compare to other electric cars in its class?

The Toyota bZ3 stands out with its spacious interior, reliable build quality, and efficient electric powertrain, competing well against models like the Tesla Model 3 and BYD Seal. Its collaboration with BYD ensures cutting-edge battery technology and competitive pricing in the EV market.

Is the Toyota bZ3 available globally or only in select markets?

Currently, the Toyota bZ3 is primarily available in China through FAW Toyota, with plans for potential expansion to other markets. Global availability may increase as Toyota continues to grow its bZ (Beyond Zero) electric vehicle lineup.