Toyota bZ5: pros, cons, costs and common fixes

Toyota bZ5 – Short Description

The Toyota bZ5 is a fully electric coupé-style SUV, part of Toyota’s “beyond Zero” lineup. Developed in partnership with BYD and manufactured through the FAW-Toyota joint venture, it is built specifically for the Chinese market, with production starting in 2025.

Powertrain and Battery
The bZ5 is equipped with a front-mounted electric motor producing 200 kW (about 268 hp). It uses a 73.98 kWh BYD Blade lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery, known for safety and durability.

Range and Charging
Under the CLTC standard, the bZ5 achieves between 550 and 630 km of range. It supports efficient charging solutions for urban and highway use.

Dimensions
The SUV measures 4,780 mm in length, 1,866 mm in width, 1,510 mm in height, and has a 2,880 mm wheelbase. Its sleek, aerodynamic coupé design enhances both aesthetics and efficiency.

Technology and Safety
Built on the e-TNGA platform, the bZ5 includes Toyota’s advanced infotainment and driver-assistance systems. It offers a modern cabin and seamless connectivity.

Production
The bZ5 is manufactured in China at the FAW Toyota plant in Tianjin, and it targets the domestic Chinese EV market.

Toyota bZ5 (first generation, MY 2025–)

The bZ5 is Toyota’s new fully-electric crossover, developed with FAW and BYD on the e-TNGA architecture. At 4.78 m long it slots between a family hatch and a midsize SUV, sporting a coupé-style roofline and a flat floor that frees up generous rear leg-room plus a 580 l boot. Two Blade-battery packs are offered—65 kWh and 74 kWh—feeding a 200 kW (268 hp) front motor for 0-100 km/h in about seven seconds. Official CLTC range is 550 km or 630 km; expect roughly 450–500 km once homologated under WLTP. Production began in Tianjin in May 2025, with European sales pencilled in for 2026.

PRO

CON

Likely issues & indicative costs (forecast)

Market pricing (May 2025)

(EU estimate factors 10 % import duty, freight, 22 % VAT and dealer margin.)

Verdict

The bZ5 packages a credible 450-km-plus range, advanced driver assistance and Toyota’s reputation for longevity into the most aggressively priced electric crossover now on sale in China. Its strengths lie in the Blade battery’s safety record, a rich ADAS suite and an interior that finally feels high-tech. Yet Europe will judge it on charging speed, winter efficiency and a sticker that could creep above €40 k. Keep an eye on whether Toyota resolves the auxiliary-battery drain seen on the bZ4X and whether an AWD variant joins the range. If the final EU price stays under €45 k, the bZ5 could become a serious threat to the Tesla Model Y and VW ID.4; if not, it risks being another “China-only bargain” that loses its shine once it crosses continents.