UMW Toyota has teased the arrival of three upcoming models for Malaysia on its social media channels. As far as teasers go, it was the usual cryptic fare: only parts of the rear fascia and light signatures were shown. However, coupled with the explicit mention of “electrification”, it is clear this trio represents UMW Toyota’s first fully-electric (EV) assault on the local market. The clues hint at the Toyota bZ4X, the BEV variant of the all-new ninth-generation Hilux, and the Toyota Urban Cruiser.
This marks the second “coming” of the Toyota bZ4X in Malaysia. The SUV was first previewed locally back in 2023, after which it essentially went to the back stage. Measuring 4,690 mm long, 1,860 mm wide, and 1,650 mm tall, its 2,850 mm wheelbase places it squarely as a C-segment SUV. This puts the bZ4X to compete against the Proton eMAS 7 and the BYD Atto 3.
Since its preview in 2023, Toyota has debuted the facelift for the bZ4X, which introduces two lithium-ion battery sizes for the front-wheel drive (FWD) variant. The entry-level 57.7 kWh pack produces 167 hp and a range of 445 km (WLTP), while a larger 73.1 kWh unit bumps output to 224 hp with a 573 km range.
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There’s also an all-wheel drive variant, which produces a combined 343 hp, allowing for a 0-100 km/h sprint in just 5.1 seconds and a range of 520 km (WLTP) from its 73.1 kWh battery. Charging is handled via a 22 kW AC onboard charger and 150 kW DC, which will get you from 10-80% in 28 minutes.
Joining the bZ4X is the ninth-generation Toyota Hilux BEV, marking the model’s local debut ahead of its diesel siblings. Featuring what Toyota calls the “Cyber Sumo” design language, the Hilux EV features dual traction motors: a 112 hp/205 Nm unit on the front and a 176 hp/269 Nm unit on the rear.
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Combined, this setup produces 196 hp. Juiced by a 59.2 kWh battery, the Hilux BEV has a range of 315 km (NEDC) and supports 10 kW AC and 125 kW DC charging. Despite running on electricity, the Toyota Hilux BEV still retains the capabilities of its dinojuice-powered siblings. That includes 500 mm of wheel articulation and 700 mm of water wading depth.
Rounding out the trio is the all-new Toyota Urban Cruiser, essentially a rebadged Suzuki e Vitara. This model is positioned below the bZ4X. Available in three powertrains, the range kicks off with a single front-mounted motor producing 144 hp and 189 Nm. A more powerful front-motor option delivers 174 hp with the same torque.
For those who need extra grip, the 4WD variant features the ALLGRIP-e electric system, including a “Trail mode” that mimics a limited-slip differential. This 4WD version uses two electric motors to produce a total output of 184 hp and 300 Nm.
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