KILDARE CAR REVIEW: Toyota goes fully-electric at Toyota Naas

Recently I was invited by one of the marketing team at Toyota Naas to test drive Toyota’s latest passenger cars, the fully-electric bZ4X and the Corolla Cross Hybrid.

Firstly, I drove the Toyota bZ4X (beyond Zero) which is Toyota’s first venture into a fully-electric vehicle. The bZ4X uses the new eTNGA platform that underpins the battery-powered Lexus RZ SUV. The bZ4X is a mid-sized SUV that is comfortable, loaded with technology and has the quality to take on the best in its class. It’s about the size of a RAV4. and competes with the Skoda Enyaq, VW ID4 and the new Nissan Ariya.

There will eventually be a family of electric bZ models in the Toyota line-up, where the number in the name indicates the size of the car. There’s just one 75kWh (71kWh usable) battery available at present, but buyers do have the option of three trim levels available: Advance, Sport and Premiere.

The bZ4X is agile and sporty to drive, and the stiff body structure and compliant suspension helps it feel composed over rough surfaces. Thanks to a power output of 204bhp and 266Nm of torque, acceleration is instant and responsive, while regenerative braking can be augmented by way of a button on the centre console.

The bZ4X has a spacious, airy interior, and the dashboard incorporates a digital gauge display and a 12.3-inch central touchscreen.

The wide centre console between the two front seats features standard wireless smartphone charging and open storage underneath, although there's no glovebox. There's also no under-bonnet storage area (frunk), but the boot has a decent 452-litre capacity.

Toyota claim that the bZ4X can deliver up to 500 km on single full charge – and with zero emissions too. Three charging options offer drivers flexibility – customers can use rapid public charging and achieve an 80% charge in around 30 minutes with a 150 kW fast-charging system, or plug into a domestic socket or a wall box at home.

Toyota quality provides total peace of mind for battery reliability.

Even after 10 years, Toyota’s aim is that the battery will still be able to achieve a world-class 90% of its original performance. According to Toyota their Battery-Electric vehicles will boast the same reliability as any other Toyota.

As long as annual services are in place, the Toyota bZ4X is covered by a 10-year warranty, for extra peace of mind. Prices start from €56,525.

I then drove the hybrid-only Corolla Cross, which is priced from €38,910. The Corolla Cross is the final piece of Toyota's SUV jigsaw, slotting between the C-HR and the RAV4.

It faces many rivals in the segment, so Toyota will rely on its reputation and proven hybrid technology to attract buyers.

The Corolla Cross hybrid is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine combined with an electric motor which drives the front wheels.

With 197bhp and 190Nm of torque on offer, the car can sprint from 0-100km/h in just 7.6-seconds.

The Corolla Cross comes in a choice of Luna, Sport and Sol grades, and boasts more practicality than the Corolla Hatch and Saloon offerings that it shares its nameplate with, while its rugged looks provide the car with greater road presence.

Outward visibility is good due to the elevated driving position.

When driving the Corolla Cross it spends plenty of time in pure-electric mode, whether it is pulling away from a standstill position or manoeuvring in and out of car parks.

While cruising along the motorway it flicks into electric mode regularly, although you will notice when the Corolla Cross switches between sources. The Corolla Cross drives in a well-controlled and refined manner, with little in the way of body-lean through bends.

The Corolla Cross features a cabin inspired by its hatchback and saloon siblings, with a few differences to set it apart. A highlight is the new-generation infotainment system, which is offered in two variations depending on the model.

Build and material quality is solid, with a mix of soft-touch and harder wearing materials. The switchgear below the display is just like the regular Corolla’s and works well, and adds a dash of silver to break up all the black.

The dashboard in the Corolla Cross comprises an infotainment display that runs Toyota’s latest software interface.

Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio are standard-fit equipment throughout the model range.

Comfort in the front is good, with supportive seats offering a range of adjustment for the driver. The steering wheel is a good size and uncluttered in terms of multifunction switchgear, and likewise offers a good range of adjustment.

The new Toyota bZ4X and Corolla Cross Hybrid are available to drive at Toyota Naas now.