Triple test: Toyota bZ4X vs Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs Volkswagen ID.4

Toyota’s first purely electric car does battle with two of the best electric family cars on the market

Toyota bZ4X, Volkswagen ID.4 GTX, Hyundai Ioniq 5

Toyota may have been the brand that brought hybrid cars to the masses in the early 2000s, but the Japanese giant has taken its sweet time producing its first electric car: the bZ4X SUV. Not only is the first of 11 – yes 11 – EVs Toyota plans to launch between now and 2030, it must be able to compete against the heavy hitters from the electric family car class, including the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the Volkswagen ID.4.

We’ve sung the praises of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 on more than one occasion, with the zero-emissions family hatchback taking home two trophies in the 2022 DrivingElectric awards, and coming out on top in a few of our other group tests. Meanwhile, the spacious, practical and comfortable Volkswagen ID.4 is a solid choice in the world of electric SUVs. 

Hyundai Ioniq 5

Pros: Eye-catching looks, class-leading charging speeds, huge boot

Cons: No rear wiper, range compared to some rivals, not much else

Toyota bZ4X

Pros: Quiet and comfortable, very good to drive, excellent on-board tech

Cons: Average charging speeds, divisive styling, high insurance rating

Volkswagen ID.4 GTX

Pros: Understated looks, spacious cabin, instant torque

Cons: Not very involving, infuriating infotainment, expensive

It is worth noting that we’re using the more performance-oriented ID.4 GTX for this test because it more closely matches the specifications of our top-of-the-range Ioniq 5 and bZ4X. But which of these electric family cars comes out best?

Most Popular

MG Cyberster review
MG Cyberster - header
In-depth reviews

MG Cyberster review

The MG Cyberster is a fantastic halo model for the brand, with stunning looks and performance
29 Sep 2023
BMW i4 facelift to topple Tesla with huge range and tech upgrades
BMW i4 facelift spies - front
News

BMW i4 facelift to topple Tesla with huge range and tech upgrades

An updated version of the BMW i4 has been spotted testing, likely sporting a longer range and the latest technology
27 Sep 2023
We’ve had a ride in the new electric MG Cyberster and it’s NOT what we first thought…
MG Cyberster passenger - front
News

We’ve had a ride in the new electric MG Cyberster and it’s NOT what we first thought…

The MG Cyberster is due to go on sale next year with up to 536bhp and scissor doors – and we’ve already had a ride in it
29 Sep 2023