2 Reasons the Toyota bZ4X Isn’t Selling As Well As Rivals
The Toyota bZ4X hasn’t made major waves in its segment. The bZ4X was initially thought to have the potential to become the undisputed best small electric SUV in its segment because of the popularity of Toyota SUVs. The Toyota RAV4 is the most popular small SUV. Unfortunately for Toyota, the bZ4X doesn’t seem to have the same appeal as the RAV4. Why isn’t the Toyota bZ4X selling as well as some of its rivals?
The Toyota bZ4X lacks a wow factor
The small electric SUV segment has become very competitive in 2022. Models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5. Ford Mustang Mach-E, Kia EV6, and Volkswagen ID.4 are battling it out for the top spot. Each competitive new small electric SUV has a characteristic that distinguishes it from other EVs baked into its design language.
The Toyota bZ4X appears to be extremely reliable based on the video above. That being said, there’s nothing particularly exciting about the small electric SUV. The Ford Mustang Mach-E is exciting because it is a take on the popular Mustang nameplate. The EV is quick and has an aggressive exterior styling.
The Ioniq 5 is the World Car of the Year because it’s practical, affordable, and provides a quiet pleasant driving experience. The Kia EV6 has a similar appeal to the Mach-E. The Volkswagen ID.4 is spacious and quiet. It’s been tough for experts and critics to pinpoint the bZ4X’s strengths.
Toyota needs to take care of the bZ4X’s existing recall
Toyota hasn’t sold any bZ4X models in September 2022 because the small electric SUV needs to be recalled. Some bZ4X models could potentially lose wheels because of loose lug nuts. Motor1 reported on the recall in July. Toyota has yet to find a solution to the problem, so the automaker can’t sell any more bZ4X models.
The news of the recall as well as the automaker’s handling of the recall could cause some potential buyers to have second thoughts. If Toyota wants the bZ4X to compete with the best small electric SUVs in its segment, it needs to address the bZ4X’s current loose wheel issue.
How can Toyota improve the bZ4X?
Toyota can improve the Toyota bZ4X by increasing its standard range. The small electric SUV’s pricing is decent, but the Japanese automaker can improve its value proposition by offering more standard features. The Volkswagen ID.4 now comes standard with wireless device charging and heated seats.
The bZ4X has a long way to go before it can compete with rivals like the Hyundai Ioniq 5. Car and Driver claims “some rivals are more exciting on the road.” Toyota’s small electric SUV isn’t a segment leader. It has potential, but the EV will seriously need to improve because the competition is stiff. Will the next Toyota bZ4X model year change how consumers feel about the Japanese electric vehicle?
Read more about the Toyota bZ4X in the next article below.
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