Photo Credit: iStockToyota is making another push to prove that affordable EVs can still be competitive in China, unveiling a refreshed bZ5 electric SUV at a price that stands out in one of the world's toughest auto markets.The updated 2027 model starts at 129,800 yuan, or about $19,500, putting it far below Tesla's Model Y in China.Here's what to knowAccording to Electrek, Toyota's China joint venture, FAW-Toyota, is offering the refreshed bZ5 in six variants, with limited-time pricing beginning at 109,800 yuan, or about $16,500. Electrek reported that the lineup's standard prices span roughly $19,500 to $30,000.AdvertisementAdvertisementElectrek reported that the SUV comes with two BYD Blade battery choices: 65.28 kilowatt-hours or 73.98 kilowatt-hours. FAW-Toyota said those packs are rated on the CLTC cycle for up to 341 miles and 391 miles, respectively.Depending on the trim, the battery takes about 27 to 29 minutes to charge from 30% to 80%, Electrek reported. The refreshed model is powered by a front-mounted motor producing 268 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque.The updated version includes Momenta 6.0 software, a high-performance chip with 544 TOPS of computing power, roof-mounted LiDAR, and 32 sensors that support more than 30 driver-assistance features.The sharper contrast with Tesla is in price: in China, the rear-wheel-drive Model Y starts at 263,500 yuan, or about $39,200. The bZ5, meanwhile, is similar in size but starts at a much lower price.More backgroundChina's EV market has become a major testing ground for how much range, software, and safety technology automakers can deliver at lower prices.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe bZ5 first arrived in China in June 2025, and Electrek said Toyota positioned it as part of a broader effort to challenge EV leaders such as Tesla and BYD.Even with aggressive pricing, the model has struggled to gain momentum. Electrek reported, citing CnEVPost, that bZ5 sales reached a high of 3,019 units in September 2025 before later falling to 529 units as competition intensified.Electric vehicles can help owners save money on gas and cut routine maintenance costs because they do not require oil changes and generally have fewer moving parts than gas-powered cars.The bZ5 is built in China and is not sold in the United States, but Toyota is growing its American EV lineup with the bZ, C-HR, and bZ Woodland, and it plans to launch the three-row Highlander BEV in early 2027, Electrek reported.AdvertisementAdvertisementLower prices, longer range, and smarter technology are increasingly becoming the expectation rather than the extra.Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips, smart advice, and a chance to earn $5,000 toward home upgrades. To see more stories like this one, change your Google preferences here.
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