Toyota bZ4X vs. Hyundai IONIQ 5: Battle of the Electric SUVs

Thinking about going electric in the Kootenays? With gas prices on the rise and BC’s charging infrastructure growing fast, there’s never been a better time to make the switch. Two of the most talked-about all-electric SUVs are the Toyota bZ4X and the Hyundai IONIQ 5—but which one is the right fit for your lifestyle in Castlegar, Trail, Nelson, or Grand Forks?

At Castlegar Toyota, we’re helping local drivers navigate the electric future with confidence. Let’s compare these two EV standouts to see which one deserves a spot in your driveway.

Built for BC Winters: AWD Capability & Traction

Living in Castlegar means four true seasons, and that winter chill can hit hard. The Toyota bZ4X is designed with our roads in mind, offering available All-Wheel Drive with X-MODE and Grip Control, specially built for snow, ice, and unpaved terrain.

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 does offer AWD, but lacks the same traction-focused driving modes and sits lower to the ground, which can be a disadvantage on Kootenay backroads and ski hill parking lots. For confidence on snowy roads, the bZ4X wins!

Range & Charging: Ready for the Long Haul

On paper, the IONIQ 5 offers more range—but real-world winter performance tells another story. Toyota’s extensive hybrid and battery expertise means the bZ4X maintains more consistent range in colder climates, something Kootenay drivers can appreciate.

Both EVs support Level 3 DC fast charging, making road trips to Kelowna or Cranbrook easier than ever.

• Toyota bZ4X (FWD): Up to 406 km of range
• Hyundai IONIQ 5 (RWD): Up to 488 km of range

Interior Comfort & Everyday Functionality

Step inside the Toyota bZ4X, and you’ll find a cabin designed with simplicity and comfort in mind. It features:

• A large 12.3-inch Toyota Multimedia touchscreen
• Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
• Available heated front and rear seats
• Dual-zone climate control with a heat pump system

The IONIQ 5’s cabin is stylish and futuristic but leans more toward design over function. Toyota’s layout is more intuitive and user-friendly—especially important during cold winter mornings when you want to adjust your climate controls fast.

Reserve bZ4X

Safety & Peace of Mind

Every Toyota bZ4X comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense™ 3.0, offering the latest driver-assist features like:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
• Lane Tracing Assist
• Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control

The IONIQ 5 offers similar tech under its “SmartSense” system, but Toyota includes more features as standard, saving you money while giving you more protection. 

Long-Term Value & Brand Trust

Toyota has long been known for building vehicles that last—especially hybrids and electrified models. With decades of battery experience and a track record for reliability, the bZ4X is a long-term investment you can count on.

Hyundai’s EVs are exciting and well-equipped, but they don’t yet match Toyota’s long-term dependability and resale value—two things that matter in BC’s dynamic driving conditions.

bZ4X vs. IONIQ 5: Quick Comparison

Go Electric with Confidence at Castlegar Toyota

The Toyota bZ4X is built for the Kootenays—with smart features, AWD capability, long-term reliability, and Toyota’s outstanding safety record. Whether you’re commuting through snow, climbing the pass to Red Mountain, or heading out for a summer road trip, the bZ4X is the EV that’s ready for it all.

At Castlegar Toyota, our team is here to guide you through every step of the EV journey—from choosing the right trim to understanding charging options and provincial rebates. Visit Castlegar Toyota—your trusted Toyota dealer in the Kootenays – to pre-order your bZ4X today!

Reserve bZ4X