Toyota launches its updated bZ5 electric SUV at half the price of a Tesla Model Y

The bZ5 is about the size of a Tesla Model Y and much more high-tech than Toyota vehicles we are used to. 2027 Toyota bZ5 price, driving range, and specs Toyota’s joint venture, FAW-Toyota, first launched the bZ5 in China last June as part of its efforts to revamp the brand and compete with EV leaders like Tesla and BYD. Although it’s only been on sale for just over a year, Toyota introduced the updated 2027 bZ5 on Wednesday. The refreshed model is available in six variants with regular prices ranging from 129,800 yuan to 199,800 yuan, or around $19,500 to $30,000. FAW-Toyota is offering limited-time prices across the lineup, starting from just 109,800 yuan (about $16,500). The 2027 bZ5 is available with two BYD Blade battery pack options: 65.28 kWh and 73.98 kWh. The former provides a CLTC driving range of up to 550 km (341 mi), while the latter has a CLTC range of 630 km (391 miles). Toyota bZ5 (Source: Toyota) In terms of power, the electric SUV uses a single front-mounted electric motor with a maximum output of 268 horsepower (200 kW) and 243 lb-ft (330 Nm) of torque. The 2027 bZ5’s battery can charge from 30% to 80% in 27 to 29 minutes, depending on the configuration. Although you can tell it’s still a Toyota with its signature hammerhead front-end design and full-length light bar, the bZ5 is equipped with advanced Chinese technology and software inside. Toyota bZ5 (Source: AutoHome) One of the biggest changes in the refreshed 2027 bZ5 is that it now uses Momenta 6.0, an upgrade from the outgoing model with Momenta 5.0 The 6.0 version is powered by Momenta’s R6 large-scale model and a high-performance chip capable of delivering 544 TOPS of computing power. Using a roof-mounted LiDAR and 32 smart sensors, the system supports over 30 intelligent assistance features, including Navigation on Autopilot (NOA) for complex city streets and Advanced Park Intelligent Parking Assist. Toyota bZ5 interior (Source: AutoHome) The interior features a 15.6″ smart center infotainment screen, a floating LCD instrument cluster, and a three-spoke steering wheel. FAW-Toyota said the updated bZ5 is the first in its class with a dual Driver Monitoring System (DMS) for both the driver and passenger. The 2027 Toyota bZ5 measures 4,780 mm long, 1,866 mm wide, and 1,510 mm high, with a 2,880 mm wheelbase. That’s about the same length as a Tesla Model Y (5-seater), but slightly shorter. The Model Y measures 4,797 mm long, 1,920 mm wide, and 1,624 mm high, with a 2,890 mm wheelbase. 2027 Toyota bZ5 prices (Source: FAW-Toyota) Starting at just 129,800 yuan ($19,500) regularly, even without the limited-time discounts, Toyota’s electric SUV is half the price of a Model Y. The base Model Y RWD starts at 263,500 yuan ($39,200) in China with a CLTC range of 593 km (368 miles). Electrek’s Take While the bZ5 is significantly cheaper than the Model Y, Toyota has struggled to sell the electric SUV in China’s competitive EV market. According to CnEVPost, bZ5 sales peaked in September 2025 at 3,019 units. With a new wave of competitive models launching, bZ5 sales have already slipped. Last month, FAW-Toyota sold just 529 bZ5s in China, down 64% from July 2025. Will the updates help the bZ5 attract new buyers? That’s what Toyota is betting on. The bZ5 is not available in the US given it’s made in China, but Toyota now offers three electric SUVs: the bZ, C-HR, and bZ Woodland. In early 2027, it will launch the Highlander BEV, its first three -row electric SUV. While it’s not under $20,000 like the bZ5 in China, the 2027 Toyota bZ is among the most affordable EVs in the US, starting at $34,980. FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.