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Revving Up the New Toyota BZ Woodland
When Toyota unveiled the BZ Woodland, the automaker signaled a return to the wagon form factor with a fresh electric twist. The model, a variant of the BZ family, is built on the same platform as the compact CHR but offers a larger footprint, more power, and a rugged aesthetic that hints at off‑road capability. For drivers who want a spacious, all‑electric vehicle that still feels like a family wagon, the Woodland is worth a closer look.
Powertrain and Performance
The Woodland is powered by a 74.7‑kWh battery that delivers up to 452 km (281 mi) of range under the WLTP cycle. The dual‑motor setup produces 375 hp and 500 lb‑ft of torque, giving the wagon a 0‑100 km/h time of 4.4 seconds and a 0‑60 mph time of 4.3 seconds. All‑wheel drive is standard, and optional all‑terrain tires can be added for a more adventurous look, though they reduce range to about 418 km (260 mi). The vehicle’s quick acceleration and instant torque are highlighted by the comment,
"I like extra power. Andrea, so this is the woodland version of the BZ BZ." – AndreaThe powertrain also supports an 11 kW onboard charger and a DC fast charger that can take the battery from 10 % to 80 % in roughly ten minutes.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the Woodland feels like a modern family wagon. A 7‑inch driver display sits above a 14‑inch touchscreen that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Dual wireless chargers, a panoramic view monitor, and a six‑speaker audio system are standard. Heated front and rear seats, eight‑way power front seats, and a 64‑color ambient lighting system add a touch of luxury. The cabin is spacious, with 42.1 in of front legroom and 35.3 in in the second row, and a 33.8‑cubic‑foot cargo area that expands to 74.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The vehicle also features a power liftgate, a tire repair kit, and a radiant foot‑and‑leg heater for the rear seats.
Exterior Styling and Rugged Appeal
The Woodland’s exterior is designed to evoke a “wagon vibe” while still looking capable. Cladding around the wheel arches, roof rails, and optional all‑terrain tires give the car a more rugged appearance, though the ground clearance remains modest at 8.5 in. The front fenders are now color‑matched to the body, a change from earlier BZ models that had mismatched fenders. Some reviewers note that the cladding feels like a “flannel shirt” on the car, but it does help the vehicle stand out from the CHR and other compact EVs.
Charging, Incentives, and the 12‑V Battery Issue
Charging the Woodland is straightforward. A Level‑2 charger can bring the battery from 0 % to 100 % in about seven hours, while a DC fast charger can reach 80 % in ten minutes. Toyota also offers a dual‑voltage charging cable and a pre‑conditioning feature that helps keep the cabin comfortable during long trips.
In Canada, buyers can benefit from manufacturer incentives that reduce the effective price. While the base model starts under $63,000, the premium trim with all‑terrain tires is just under $68,000. These incentives, combined with government rebates, can bring the cost down to a level comparable to the Subaru Trail Seeker, which is priced lower but offers fewer incentives.
However, owners have reported a 12‑V battery drainage problem that can leave the vehicle’s accessories dead after a period of inactivity. The issue, which affects the BZ, Woodland, CHR, and the Subaru Trail Seeker, is caused by the vehicle’s connected‑car system draining the 12‑V battery when the car is not in use. Subaru Canada’s temporary workaround involves deactivating the car from the app, but a permanent fix has not yet been announced.
Comparisons and Consumer Choice
When deciding between the BZ Woodland and the CHR, the main differences are size, power, and price. The CHR is lighter and more agile, with 338 hp, while the Woodland offers 375 hp and a larger interior. Both vehicles share the same battery architecture, but the Woodland’s higher power and all‑wheel drive make it more suitable for families who need extra cargo space and occasional off‑road capability.
Subaru’s Trail Seeker, which shares the same platform, offers a similar look but at a lower price point. Toyota’s incentives can offset the higher MSRP, but buyers must weigh the cost against the added features and performance of the Woodland.
Final Thoughts
The Toyota BZ Woodland represents a bold step for the automaker’s electric lineup. With a powerful dual‑motor setup, a spacious interior, and a rugged exterior, it appeals to drivers who want a family wagon that can handle a bit of adventure. While the 12‑V battery issue remains a concern, the overall package—especially when combined with Canadian incentives—makes the Woodland a compelling choice in the growing electric wagon segment.