As electric vehicles continue to grow in popularity across Canada, drivers in Prince George and Northern BC are looking for EVs that can handle both modern expectations and rugged local conditions. Two standout options in the segment are the Toyota bZ4X and the Hyundai IONIQ 5—but which one is the better fit for your lifestyle?
At Prince George Toyota, we’ve done the research for you. Here’s how these two all-electric SUVs stack up.
If you live in Northern BC, you already know that winter performance matters. The Toyota bZ4X comes available with all-wheel drive, featuring Toyota’s X-MODE system and Grip-Control technology, designed to handle icy roads, deep snow, and uneven terrain with confidence.
While the IONIQ 5 does offer an AWD version, it sits lower to the ground and lacks the same all-terrain features. For winter traction and Northern resilience, bZ4X is the clear choice.
While the IONIQ 5 has a slight edge on paper in total range, real-world performance depends on driving conditions—and Toyota’s reputation for consistent range in cold weather gives it an edge in the north. Plus, the bZ4X is equipped for DC fast charging, with the ability to recharge up to 80% in around 30 minutes.
The Toyota bZ4X features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, intuitive infotainment with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, and an available panoramic glass roof. Interior comfort includes available heated front and rear seats, a heat pump system, and smart climate controls ideal for BC winters.
The IONIQ 5 also offers impressive tech, but Toyota’s infotainment and Toyota Safety Sense™ 3.0 package provide more driver assistance and collision avoidance features as standard. For safety, Toyota goes further—no upgrades required.
Toyota is known around the world for building some of the most reliable vehicles on the market. With decades of hybrid and electrified vehicle leadership, the bZ4X carries that legacy forward—making it a smarter long-term investment, especially in regions where vehicle dependability truly matters.
Hyundai’s EVs are impressive, but when it comes to long-term ownership, maintenance support, and resale value, Toyota remains the trusted name in Northern BC.
Feature |
Toyota bZ4X |
Hyundai IONIQ 5 |
AWD Capability |
Yes, with X-MODE & Grip Control |
Yes, no terrain features |
Estimated Range (FWD/RWD) |
Up to 406 km |
Up to 488 km |
Cold Weather Optimization |
Heat pump, heated seats, AWD tech |
Heated features, no terrain tech |
Standard Safety Tech |
Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 |
Hyundai SmartSense |
Infotainment |
12.3” Display + Toyota Multimedia |
Dual-screen layout |
Brand Reputation |
Industry-leading reliability |
Strong, but less proven in EVs |
Dealer Support in BC |
Extensive Toyota service network |
Limited in rural areas |
At Prince George Toyota, we understand what Northern drivers need: comfort, capability, and confidence—especially in unpredictable BC weather. The Toyota bZ4X checks all those boxes and then some, all backed by Toyota’s trusted service and support.
Ready to learn more? Test drive the Toyota bZ4X today at Prince George Toyota and see why it's the better EV for life in the North. Whether you’re making your first move into an EV or upgrading from your current hybrid, the bZ4X delivers electric performance without compromise.