Toyota unveiled the 2026 Toyota bZ — a redesigned and reengineered iteration of its battery-electric SUV, formerly known as the bZ4X. With significant enhancements in driving range, charging technology, power output, and overall design, the new bZ aims to firmly position Toyota in the increasingly competitive electric vehicle market.
The 2026 bZ offers a robust improvement in range, with the XLE Front-Wheel Drive Plus model now boasting a manufacturer-estimated 314 miles on a full charge — a 25 percent increase over the previous model’s 252-mile rating. Central to this improvement is a new 74.7-kWh lithium-ion battery that powers not only the XLE FWD Plus but also the XLE AWD and Limited trim levels.
The evolution of Toyota’s electric SUV includes a critical change that reflects industry-wide shifts: the incorporation of the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port. This update gives the bZ access to a wider network of DC fast charging stations across the continent. Toyota has also added Plug & Charge capability, allowing the vehicle to automatically authenticate and initiate charging at compatible stations without requiring manual input or multiple apps.
Toyota’s electrification strategy isn’t just about range — it’s about performance too. The 2026 bZ sees a significant 50 percent increase in horsepower for AWD models, now offering 338 combined system net horsepower, up from 214 hp. That power translates to a brisk 0-60 mph sprint in approximately 4.9 seconds, a notable improvement for an all-electric SUV in this category. Front-wheel drive models now produce up to 221 hp, up from 201.
Beyond performance, Toyota has focused on user experience and design refinement. The front fascia receives a modern redesign featuring slim LED daytime running lights that blend into the vehicle’s hammerhead-style front end. Newly available color-matched overfenders create a smoother, more cohesive profile. Inside, the cabin reflects Toyota’s intent to blend comfort with technology. The centerpiece is a redesigned instrument panel that includes a 14-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen and customizable ambient lighting available in 64 colors.
Available in both XLE and Limited trims, the bZ comes with a choice between front- or all-wheel drive. The XLE is offered in three configurations: FWD, FWD Plus, and AWD. The Limited model adds a more refined suite of features and is also available in FWD and AWD versions.
Charging times are equally impressive. When conditions are ideal and connected to a DC fast charger, the 2026 bZ can charge from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes. It also supports Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging, with an onboard 11-kW charger — up from the 7-kW unit in the previous model. The addition of a dual-voltage cable ensures flexibility at various charging stations.
To further enhance charging efficiency, Toyota has added a battery pre-conditioning system that warms the battery to an optimal temperature for charging, especially useful in cold climates. This function can be triggered manually or automatically when a fast-charging station is set as a destination in the navigation system.
Driving efficiency is also improved with the addition of steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, allowing drivers to control regenerative braking levels based on personal preference. Coupled with a water-to-water heat exchanger and a heating adjustment valve, the bZ’s thermal management system optimizes battery performance in all conditions.
The AWD models feature Toyota’s X-MODE system — a traction-enhancing technology that adjusts power delivery and brake control based on road conditions. It also includes Grip-Control for low-speed off-road driving. This system enhances the bZ’s capability on diverse terrains.
Underpinning the bZ is Toyota’s e-TNGA platform, a dedicated battery-electric vehicle architecture. This platform supports a low center of gravity and strong chassis rigidity, both of which contribute to the SUV’s stable handling and smooth ride. High-tensile steel reinforcements and a battery cross-frame design add to the overall structural integrity of the vehicle.
Dimensionally, the bZ remains a small SUV, measuring 184.6 inches long and 73.2 inches wide with a wheelbase of 112.2 inches. The ground clearance is set at 8.2 inches. These specifications make the bZ well-suited for both urban and suburban environments.
The interior, which has seen substantial refinement, now features dual wireless smartphone chargers, a slimmer dashboard, and a digital multi-information display. Heated SofTex-trimmed seating is standard, with front seats offering up to 8-way adjustability. In the Limited trim, drivers will find ventilated front seats and an upgraded JBL audio system with nine speakers.
Cargo and passenger space have also been optimized. The rear seats fold flat in a 60/40 configuration, and cargo capacity stands at 27.7 cubic feet behind the second row. Front seat legroom measures 42.1 inches, while rear passengers get 35.3 inches.
Toyota has not overlooked aesthetics. The 2026 bZ is offered in a palette of single and two-tone exterior colors, including options such as Wind Chill Pearl, Supersonic Red, Heavy Metal, Blueprint, and classic Black. Select colors come with the option of black or color-matched overfenders. Interior choices range from Fabric/SofTex to all-SofTex in black or light gray.
The bZ’s cabin tech is anchored by the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, standard on all grades and powered by a 14-inch touchscreen. This system includes voice-activated commands via the Intelligent Assistant, cloud-based navigation, and Destination Assist — all available through a three-year trial of Toyota’s Drive Connect package. The multimedia experience is further enhanced with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual Bluetooth connectivity, and streaming capabilities from Apple Music and Amazon Music via Wi-Fi Connect.
A suite of Toyota Connected Services trials is included with the vehicle. Remote Connect, available for three years, allows users to control cabin climate, activate lights, and even unlock the liftgate from a smartphone. It also supports the Toyota Digital Key, enabling the smartphone to serve as the car key — functionality that includes remote start and access sharing.
On the safety front, the 2026 bZ is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, the brand’s latest suite of active safety technologies. Features include Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist, and Proactive Driving Assist. Automatic High Beams and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert are also standard. Additionally, the vehicle includes Safe Exit Alert, designed to prevent door openings into oncoming traffic or cyclists.
The Limited trim includes advanced features such as Front Cross Traffic Alert, Traffic Jam Assist, and Lane Change Assist, along with a Panoramic View Monitor providing a 360-degree overhead view for low-speed maneuvering.
The 2026 Toyota bZ is expected to arrive at dealerships in the second half of 2025, with pricing details to be announced closer to launch. Warranty coverage includes a 36-month/36,000-mile basic warranty, a 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and coverage for electric vehicle components, including the battery, for 8 years or 100,000 miles.
With the updated bZ, Toyota signals its readiness to compete aggressively in the EV space. Between a significant increase in range, new charging tech, improved performance, and a thoughtful design overhaul, the 2026 bZ is no longer a tentative step into electrification — it’s a confident leap.