The world of automobiles has been rapidly changing over the past half a decade or so. There has been a constant shift between ICE cars and EVs, with the latter trying to play its music with the volume turned all the way up to eleven. Where ICE-powered crossovers/SUVs were doing good business, electric SUVs are coming into the picture as well.
Two of the newest on the field here is the Toyota bZ4X and Honda e:NS1 (or Honda e:NY1). Neither of these names roll off the tongue easily, but their existence is important. Today, we will find out which of these two compact electric crossovers you should focus more on.
Design
Almost the size and shape of the HR-V, the Honda e:NS1 is 4,387 mm long, 1,790 mm wide and 1,584 mm tall. It has a wheelbase 2,607 mm, which is considerably less than the Toyota bZ4X’s wheelbase of 2,850 mm. The bZ4X is 4,689 mm long, 1,859 mm wide and 1,651 mm tall. The Toyota EV is not only larger in size, but it’s also about 240 kg heavier than the Honda.
The bZ4X’s front takes styling inspirations from the latest Prius and Toyota’s “Hammerhead” design language. The high hood, sleek headlamps, and a tall nose section give this EV a pretty confident stance. Some trim levels get fake black plastic fenders that look childish and over-the-top. However, if you don’t opt for that, the bZ4X looks quite stylish – albeit like a Prius on stilts.
The Honda e:NS1 is undeniably more sophisticated and mature in its styling. Its smooth lines are clubbed with sleek LED lights and a more mature design language. This makes the e:NS1 appear more unassuming, but in a good way. Its upright body also means that there’s more room for actual people inside this Honda EV. Then again, the Toyota bZ4X stands out more.
Interior
The interior of both of these cars is nothing short of interesting and visually engaging. However, the Toyota’s seems like you’re strapped inside the cockpit of a fighter jet, whilst that of the Honda looks a touch less intimidating. The latter can feel more premium when it comes to its materials and build quality, with slightly better feel overall.
Toyota bZ4X interior
It’s not that the bZ4X’s interior is cheap, but it lacks that distinct feel of premiumness. The former fights back with slightly better kneeroom at the back, courtesy of the scooped design of the front seats. However, the small rear windows mean that neither of these cars feel particularly airy at the back. Similarly, if you’re taller than 6 feet tall, then the rear seats of these EVs will not be comfortable.
Features
The Toyota bZ4X and Honda e:NS1 are both well-equipped. Some of the features include panoramic sunroof, Android Auto & Apple CarPlay, multi-zone climate control, wireless charger, touchscreen infotainment, and a powered driver’s seat. Customers will also get a powered tailgate, 360-degree camera system, push-button start, a digital driver’s display, and connected car tech. However, the Honda EV boasts more features.
Honda eNS1 interior
Powertrain and performance
The Toyota bZ4X can be powered by two electric motors that make 214 hp and 336 Nm of torque. Then there’s the Honda e:NS1, which has its electric motor producing 201 hp and 310 Nm of torque. The Honda EV can go from 0-100 km/h in 7.7 seconds and reach a top speed of around 160 km/h.
When it comes to the bZ4X, it can touch 100 km/h in about 8.5 seconds. Coming to the battery size, the Honda e:NS1 has a 68.8 kWh battery, whilst the Toyota bZ4X gets a 71.4 kWh battery pack. Keep in mind that these specs defer based on the market these cars operate in. The Toyota EV has WLTP range of around 500 km, while the Honda EV’s range is around 412 km.
Verdict
If you want a stylish compact electric SUV, then both of these are good choices. The bZ4X has ‘Toyota’ in its name, making it almost invisible in the market’s value cycle. Its rakish styling catches your eye as well – it’s also more powerful. The Honda e:NS1 looks nice and has a nicer interior, but isn’t a performance champ.
In the meantime, click here if you want to know more about some of the best Toyota cars in the GCC. If you want to buy a used Honda in Dubai, click here.
