Toyota has introduced a new Knight Edition of its GAC-Toyota bZ3X electric SUV exclusively for the Chinese market. This special edition stands out with its all-black design, unique features, and a starting price that is significantly lower than Toyota’s other EV offerings.
Distinctive Design and Features
The GAC-Toyota bZ3X Knight Edition is available in two versions: 520 Pro and 520 Pro Lidar. Both models feature a black paint scheme, black badges at the front and rear, and unique 18-inch wheels with black-and-silver aero covers. The Lidar version adds an advanced Lidar sensor above the windshield.
Inside, the Knight Edition includes an 11-speaker Yamaha audio system, heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, as well as small tables that fold down from the backs of the front seats, similar to those found on commercial airliners.
Performance and Specifications
Both 520 Pro Knight Edition models use a 58 kWh battery pack paired with a 201 hp front-mounted electric motor. This setup delivers a driving range of up to 232 miles (~373 km) on a full charge.
The compact SUV measures 4,600 mm (~181.1 inches) in length, 1,875 mm (~73.8 inches) in width, and 1,645 mm (~64.7 inches) in height, with a wheelbase of 2,765 mm (~108.8 inches). The vehicle weighs 1,835 kg (~4,045 lbs).
Pricing and Market Position
The 520 Pro Knight Edition starts at $16,947 (~AUD 24,056), while the 520 Pro Lidar Knight Edition is priced from $19,899 (~AUD 28,247). These prices are notably lower than Toyota’s bZ model, which starts at $34,900 (~AUD 49,542), and also undercut the ICE RAV4, which is priced from $31,900 (~AUD 45,283) before delivery.
Non-Knight Edition versions of the bZ3X are also available, including the 610 Max variant, which features a larger 68-kWh battery, a 221 hp electric motor, and a range of up to 379 miles (~610 km).
Why this matters
The launch of the bZ3X Knight Edition highlights Toyota’s approach to offering feature-rich electric vehicles at competitive prices in China. With its unique styling and amenities, the Knight Edition provides Chinese consumers with more options in the growing EV market.
The significant price difference compared to other Toyota models and traditional ICE vehicles demonstrates the increasing affordability of electric SUVs in China.
What this means for buyers
Buyers in China looking for an electric SUV with premium features and distinctive styling now have a new option with the bZ3X Knight Edition. Those interested in advanced driver assistance can opt for the Lidar-equipped version.
As the Knight Edition is exclusive to China, international buyers will need to consider other Toyota models or wait for potential future releases in their regions.
Key Specs
- Available Versions: 520 Pro Knight Edition, 520 Pro Lidar Knight Edition
- Battery Capacity: 58 kWh
- Motor Output: 201 hp
- Range: 232 miles (~373 km)
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 4,600 mm x 1,875 mm x 1,645 mm (~181.1 x 73.8 x 64.7 inches)
- Wheelbase: 2,765 mm (~108.8 inches)
- Curb Weight: 1,835 kg (~4,045 lbs)
- Starting Price: $16,947 (~AUD 24,056) (520 Pro), $19,899 (~AUD 28,247) (520 Pro Lidar)
Source
Images sourced from: autoblog.com, toyotamacau.com
