Toyota Teases New Electric Coupe Crossover Ahead of March 11 Debut

Toyota has released a teaser image of an upcoming electric coupe crossover set for unveiling on March 11, promising an "exciting and surprising" addition to its lineup. While details remain limited, the new model appears to share design elements with the 2022 bZ Compact SUV Concept, hinting at a sleek and modern approach to the automaker’s electric vehicle (EV) strategy.

The teaser image provides a partial view of the vehicle, showcasing a sloping roofline that aligns with the concept’s aesthetic. However, it is unclear whether the production model retains the concept’s original dimensions. Toyota describes the vehicle as “all-new,” suggesting it does not have a direct predecessor, rather than being a redesign of an existing model.

Toyota is positioning the upcoming EV as an engaging and spacious option, emphasising its "elevated driving dynamics" and "strong emotional appeal." The bZ Compact SUV Concept, which could serve as a foundation for this new model, featured a bold design, hidden rear door handles, and a distinctive taillight arrangement with a full-width light bar. Its front-end styling also leaned more toward the aggressive look of the C-HR rather than the bZ4X, which has received mixed reactions from consumers.

Several elements from the concept may carry over to the production version, including large 21-inch wheels, dual charging ports, and a sizable 14-inch infotainment screen with a curved lower edge, reminiscent of Mercedes’ Hyperscreen technology. Toyota is also reportedly reconsidering its bZ naming strategy, which could mean a new designation for this model and potentially a rebranding of the bZ4X during its mid-cycle refresh.

The new electric crossover will not be Toyota’s smallest, as the recently introduced Urban Cruiser EV, also sold as the Suzuki e Vitara, holds that position. The new model was developed at Toyota’s design centre in France, leading to speculation that it may initially target the European market. However, given that the bZ Compact SUV Concept debuted at the 2022 Los Angeles Auto Show, a U.S. release remains a possibility.

More details will emerge when Toyota officially unveils the vehicle on March 11, shedding light on its positioning within the brand’s expanding EV lineup.