This week I am once again behind the wheel of Toyota's spacious all-electric vehicle: the bZ4X (which thankfully drops the 4X from its badging for 2026.) New for the EV's third model year - the Nightshade Edition. Keep in mind as you're reading this, that significant changes are coming for the 2026 model year along with its tweaked name. The lineup gets tweaked looks, more power and range depending on trim, and adds a new North American Charging Standard (NACS) charge port.
Exterior
The bZ4X Nightshade Edition makes a "no apologies" statement with its bold, modern design and all-around aggressive stance.
Its two-tone look - pairing Windchill Pearl with a Black two-tone roof and exclusive 20-inch black finish wheels looks terrific. And check out the black-painted overfenders. Designers did not hold back there!
he tail end looks great, too, with its performance-inspired black split roof rear spoiler along with a rear diffuser.
Powertrain
Equipped with a dual motor powertrain, the bZ4X with AWD is an off-the-line performer. The system delivers 214-horses and 248 pound-feet of torque. I would not want the front-wheel drive's 201, however. It's important to note, for 2026 the AWD models get a big boost in power to 338 hp.
The bZ4X is unique in the lineup in that its equipped with X-MODE drive mode with Snow/Dirt, Deep Snow/Mud and Grip Control Mode.
The Nightshade Edition with AWD - like the Limited - gets 222 miles of range. There is no true "one pedal driving" that can bring you to a complete stop, but it does have a regenerative braking with boost function that is similar.
The 2025 bZ4X is capable of DC fast-charging and comes with a dual voltage charging cable. Its AC Level-2 charging time (from Low Battery Light to 100%) is 9.5 hours. DC charging cuts it to 35 minutes.
Interior
The Nightshade's roomy interior is an interesting one, a mix of soft touch materials, fabric and piano black materials along with silver hardware. Its mixed media cabin features comfortable fabric and Softex- trimmed seats with red stitching. The 8-way power driver's seat has lumbar support. Both front seats are heated as is the leather-trimmed steering wheel.
All three trims share a 7-inch color digital display set forward into the driver's side dash. Call me old-fashioned but I like the digital display closer to me. The vast gray void of the steering wheel column just isn't attractive for one, and it's also harder to see.
The 12.3-inch touchscreen runs Toyota's terrific multimedia system with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a 6-speaker sound system. (I'd upgrade to the JBL sound system.) Screen resolution and navigation both look great however I do lament the quality of the backup camera. Underneath the screen, you find your climate controls, and wow does the dual-zone AC work great!
A wide floating center console is a focal point. It on the higher side and covered in glossy black, which is prone to attract lint. It is home to an easy-to-operate dial-style gear shifter with a P button above it for park. The console is also where you find a covered wireless charger and controls like the electric parking brake and Auto Brake Hold. Underneath the floating console, you find 2 USB-C ports and storage space. Ahead of the console bin you find two large cupholders.
In the 60/40 split second row, you lose quite a bit of headroom due to stadium style seating. But legroom is nice. The seats recline and also fold-flat. A drop-down center armrests offers up smaller cup holders. Soft-touch seat backs are great to see back here. High door panels reduce window real estate a bit. There are two more USB-C ports and AC vents.
A power lift gate opens up to impressive cargo space with a cargo cover. An optional cargo mat looks upscale.
Other standard features include rain-sensing wipers, a panoramic fixed glass roof, and a 12V/120W auxiliary power outlet.
Ride and Drive
The bZ4X is enjoyable to drive with impressive, smooth off-the-line acceleration. There are Eco, Normal, Snow and the aforementioned X-Mode drive modes. The ride itself is comfortable thanks to a great suspension and it also handles well. It's easy to maneuver, too, and with it's 8.1 inches of ground clearance you get a great view of the road.
Options Interior
Options include the Premium paint ($475) and two-tone paint ($500), wheel locks ($105) and carpet floor/cargo mat ($329).
Safety
The bZ4X is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. Additionally, it's equipped with Blind Spot monitor rear cross traffic alert, front and rear parking assist with brake and safe exit alert.
Verdict
The 2025 bZ4X Nightshade Edition looks sporty and modern. It's also fun to drive with the perks of EV performance. However, with the updated 2026 bZ slated to head into dealerships soon, I would compare models. If you do opt for the 2025, you could find a great deal out there on one since an updated model arrives soon. And remember no what model year you go for, Car Pro Show host Jerry Reynolds recommends leasing an EV instead of buying.
2025 Toyota bZ4X Nightshade Edition
- What I Liked Most: Nightshade looks. Smooth and quick acceleration.
- What I would change: Toyota, please reconsider the digital display location.
- MSRP: Base: $40,420. As equipped: $43,224.
- Official Color: Windchill Pearl with two-tone Black roof.
- Fuel Economy: 112 city MPGe / 92 highway MPGe / 102 combined MPGe.
- Odometer reading when tested: 160 miles.
- Curb Weight: 4,464 pounds.
- Spare tire: Tire repair kit.
- Length-Width-Height: 184.6" long/ 73.2” wide/65” high.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: N/A. Charging port on front driver's side.
- Towing Capacity: N/A.
- 2025 Toyota bZ4X Nightshade in a few words: The Nightshade Edition treatment is a great look and addition to Toyota's EV lineup.
- Final Assembly Location: Aichi, Japan.
- Warranty: 36 months/36,000 miles comprehensive; 5-year/60,000 cile powertrain; 8-year/100,000 miles battery; 5-year unlimited miles corrosion.
- Manufacturer's website: Toyota
