For many drivers, towing ability is an essential part of choosing a new car. Whether it is a caravan for weekends away, a trailer for outdoor equipment or additional carrying capacity for an active lifestyle, the vehicle needs to feel stable, capable and reassuring.
The new Toyota bZ4X Touring has now demonstrated that an electric SUV can deliver those qualities, winning its class in the Caravan and Motorhome Club’s 2027 Towcar of the Year Awards.
The all-wheel drive model took first place in the highly competitive category for towing caravans between 1,500 and 1,600kg. In doing so, it outperformed rivals powered by petrol, diesel hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fully electric powertrains.
Tested where it matters
This was not an award based solely on figures or specifications.
The bZ4X Touring underwent a comprehensive assessment programme at the UTAC Millbrook proving ground, where experts evaluated its towing performance, stability, braking and everyday practicality.
The judges were particularly impressed by its controlled braking and combination of agility and stability. They also highlighted its performance while towing: the bZ4X Touring completed the 0–60mph test in 7.55 seconds while hitched.
That performance is not simply about speed. When towing, accessible power can help a vehicle pull away confidently and maintain progress when joining traffic or travelling on inclines.
Designed for more adventurous journeys
The bZ4X Touring expands Toyota’s battery electric SUV range with a design created for drivers who need more space and greater versatility.
Compared with the established bZ4X SUV, its extended body increases luggage capacity by almost 50 per cent. Standard roof rails can also carry loads of up to 80kg, providing additional scope for equipment such as roof boxes and other suitable accessories.
For caravanners and drivers who enjoy camping, walking, cycling or spending time outdoors, that additional capacity could make a meaningful difference when preparing for a trip.
The all-wheel drive Excel model can tow up to 1,500kg, subject to the individual trailer or caravan, its loaded weight and the vehicle’s operating limits.
Electric performance with all-wheel drive confidence
The award-winning model uses a 74.7kWh battery and a powerful all-wheel drive electric system producing 376bhp.
Toyota’s X-MODE system adjusts the vehicle’s settings to suit different driving conditions, while Grip Control and Downhill Assist Control provide additional support when travelling over more challenging surfaces.
These capabilities could prove particularly valuable for owners navigating wet campsites, rural lanes or uneven access routes—situations that will be familiar to many caravan and outdoor enthusiasts across Somerset and Devon.
The bZ4X Touring AWD has an official WLTP combined driving range of up to 297 miles. Battery pre-conditioning and temperature management support DC fast charging from 10 to 80 per cent in approximately 28 minutes, subject to the charger, battery condition and local conditions.
As with every tow vehicle, real-world energy consumption and driving range will vary according to factors including the weight and shape of the caravan or trailer, speed, route, weather and temperature. Planning suitable charging stops will therefore remain an important part of longer electric towing journeys.
A significant result for electric towing
Drivers have traditionally looked towards petrol and diesel vehicles when selecting a tow car. Hybrid models have broadened those choices, but some caravan owners may still be uncertain about making the move to a fully electric vehicle.
The bZ4X Touring’s result provides valuable independent evidence of its performance under towing conditions. Its victory against vehicles using several different powertrain technologies also demonstrates how quickly electric towing capability is developing.
It combines the smooth, immediate response of an electric powertrain with all-wheel drive, controlled braking and practical carrying space—all qualities that matter when travelling with a caravan or trailer.
Is the Toyota bZ4X Touring suitable for your caravan?
A vehicle’s maximum towing capacity is only one part of establishing whether it is suitable for a particular caravan or trailer.
The caravan’s actual loaded weight, noseweight and the vehicle manufacturer’s operating limits must all be considered. Drivers should also check the relevant licence requirements and follow guidance from their caravan manufacturer or recognised caravanning organisation.
Our SCC Toyota team can help explain the vehicle’s specifications and features, but customers should always confirm that their individual caravan or trailer combination is suitable before towing.
Discover the new Toyota bZ4X Touring with SCC Toyota
Winning its Towcar of the Year class is an impressive achievement for the new Toyota bZ4X Touring—and one that should make it particularly interesting to caravan owners and outdoor enthusiasts considering the move to electric driving.
To find out more about the Toyota bZ4X Touring, contact the SCC Toyota team at Roundswell, Taunton or Yeovil. We will be happy to discuss the model, its all-wheel drive technology and whether its towing and carrying capabilities could suit your lifestyle.
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