Toyota has officially announced its plans to develop bZ4X variations, including a GR-branded model geared towards enhancing off-road performance rather than emphasizing speed on pavement.
This confirmation was provided by Masaya Uchiyama, the chief engineer of the bZ4X, in an interview with Australia’s sales. Uchiyama outlined three potential bZ4X iterations: a more affordable variant, a flagship GR hot hatch, and a GR Sport model aimed at elevating off-road capabilities.
Among these options, Uchiyama expresses a preference for the latter, drawing parallels with the enhancements seen in the Hilux GR Sport available in Australia.
“I like to go the off-road performance side,” Uchiyama remarked. “It’s one option to have a high-performance bZ4X. It would probably be a bZ4X GR S like [the] Hilux GR Sport. We are studying in the model life, but I cannot say when or how right now.”
While the Hilux GR Sport, found in select markets outside the US, doesn’t undergo comprehensive upgrades to qualify as a hardcore off-roader, it does feature a slightly enhanced engine, improved chassis, and various cosmetic enhancements.
Given that the bZ4X shares a platform with the Lexus RZ, which boasts up to 308 horsepower, obtaining additional electric power should not pose significant challenges. Furthermore, the forthcoming hotter RZ F model demonstrates the capability of the e-TNGA platform to accommodate even greater power outputs.
Despite this, the focus remains on introducing off-road enhancements for the electric vehicle, an aspect yet to be fully revealed by the Japanese automaker.
Nonetheless, Uchiyama, renowned for his involvement in the development of the new Toyota Land Cruiser (also known as the Prado 250 Series in markets outside the US) and the Hilux, expresses confidence in the bZ4X’s capabilities.
He even suggests that, in certain scenarios, the bZ4X could outperform the Land Cruiser as an off-roader, thanks to its instantaneous torque delivery.
“On a medium off-road course, you can feel more peace of mind than Prado – easy driving,” Uchiyama stated confidently.
Also read: Toyota GR Supra vs. GR Corolla: Sales Disparity Explained
