2027 Toyota bZ5 officially launched in China, priced from RM68,000 – an electric Camry?

When it comes to Toyota, Malaysians typically think of reliable and durable models like the Vios, Hilux, or Corolla Cross. However, in China’s fiercely competitive EV market, Toyota’s electric vehicle rollout is moving at a rapid pace.

On 26 August, Toyota officially unveiled its brand-new IT'S TiME 4.0 technology brand, alongside the launch of the highly anticipated 2027 Toyota bZ5 all-electric mid-sized SUV.

While this model has not been earmarked for the Malaysian market yet, as Toyota's key global EV offering, this latest update is definitely worth keeping an eye on for local car enthusiasts and market observers. Let's delve into what this talked-about all-electric SUV has to offer.

What kind of car is it?

The Toyota bZ5 is a crossover positioned as a mid-sized all-electric SUV. In terms of dimensions, it measures 4,780 mm in length, 1,866 mm in width, and 1,510 mm in height, with a generous 2,880 mm wheelbase, translating to a very spacious cabin.

On the styling front, the bZ5 retains the brand's signature sleek fastback silhouette and coupe-SUV styling. It features a closed-off front grille, full-width "star-ring" LED headlights, and highly distinct C-shaped split light clusters.

The rear design mirrors the front with a full-width light bar and a sporty black lower bumper trim, exuding a youthful, high-tech, and dynamic vibe.

What are the highlights of the 2027 bZ5?

As an annual update model, the biggest highlight of the 2027 bZ5 is the inclusion of advanced smart features across more affordable variants:

**Advanced ADAS Suite:** The new model features the latest Toyota Pilot smart driving assist system, co-developed with Chinese autonomous driving giant Momenta. It incorporates Momenta's reinforcement learning AI model, while higher-spec variants come standard with LiDAR to support advanced features like urban Navigate on Autopilot (NOA), bringing premium autonomous driving tech to a more accessible price point.

 **Tech-laden and Comfortable Cabin:** Inside, the cabin retains its minimalist, high-tech design, dominated by a massive 15.6-inch central infotainment touchscreen and a slim digital instrument cluster. The infotainment system supports smart voice commands, gesture control, and seamless smartphone connectivity.

Furthermore, it is equipped with a panoramic glass roof, heated front seats with a "flat-lay bed mode", an in-car fragrance system, 256-colour ambient lighting, and a premium JBL sound system, leaving no stone unturned in terms of comfort.

**Powertrain and Range:** Propelled by a front-mounted single motor (FWD layout), the electric motor produces a maximum output of 272 hp and a peak torque of 330 Nm. For battery options, buyers can choose between 65.28 kWh and 73.98 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) packs, delivering a CLTC-rated range of 550 km and 630 km respectively — more than enough for daily commutes and interstate road trips.

Limited-time promo pricing: starting from approx. RM68,000

In terms of pricing, the 2027 Toyota bZ5 is offered in six variants in China, with official retail prices ranging from RM129,800 to RM199,800 (approx. RM81,000 to RM124,000). During the limited-time promotion, the promo price is slashed to between RM109,800 and RM179,800, which translates to roughly RM68,000 to RM112,000.

Compared to segment rivals from domestic Chinese brands like BYD, the bZ5 is highly competitive in terms of value, further bolstered by Toyota's bulletproof reputation and the addition of Momenta's smart driving system.

While the EV landscape in Malaysia is growing increasingly vibrant, charging infrastructure in many areas remains underdeveloped. It is hoped that local EV charging networks will be expanded rapidly to offer greater convenience for owners.

Looking at these high-value, tech-packed EVs in the Chinese market, would Malaysian car enthusiasts like to see this model make its way to our shores in the future?