Toyota has recently intensified its electrification strategy, and it appears that among the upcoming EVs, there is a ‘baby’ SUV that is reportedly in development through a collaboration with Suzuki. While details are limited, this model is now rumored to debut in 2025 and may potentially be the production version of the Toyota bZ Small Crossover Concept pictured here.
Toyota and Suzuki have close ties, engaging in mutual vehicle rebadging and technology exchange to meet their respective market demands worldwide. Several collaborative projects between the two companies are already available for purchase in regions including Europe, India, South Africa, and Southeast Asia.
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According to Japanese outlet Best Car, Toyota aims to capitalize on the success of small EVs in the domestic market, but it is highly likely that the car will also be offered globally, including Europe. The report suggests that Suzuki was selected as the ideal partner for collaborative development because of its proficiency in manufacturing small cars.
The bZ Small Crossover was among the 15 Toyota and Lexus concepts unveiled during a special event on December 2021. It was showcased in digital renderings and as a static, full-size prototype with blacked-out windows, symbolizing the forthcoming addition as the smallest member within the fully electric bZ (beyond zero) lineup.
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At the time of its unveiling, Toyota stated that the bZ Small Crossover had been designed with a focus on the European and Japanese markets, which aligns with the latest report. The company did not disclose specific specifications at that time, except for confirming that it was based on the eTNGA architecture and had a targeted power consumption of 125 Wh/km. In terms of size, the concept appears to fall between the dimensions of the Toyota Aygo X at 3,700 mm (145.7 inches) and the Toyota Yaris Cross at 4,180 mm (164.6 inches), although exact dimensions remain unconfirmed.
The reported debut of Toyota’s fully electric ‘baby’ SUV in 2025 coincides with the introduction of the production-spec Suzuki eVX. However, the latter will likely be larger in size, given that the concept measures 4,300 mm (169.3 inches) in length. In all likelihood, Suzuki will benefit from this joint development and produce its own version of the EV, not only for Japan, but global markets as well like India. Potential competitors in this segment could include the Hyundai Casper-based EV and the much-anticipated VW ID.1, which has recently been confirmed for a 2026 debut.
