2026 Toyota bZ: Redefining Electric SUVs with Enhanced Range and Style

Toyota is advancing its electrified vehicle lineup with the 2026 Toyota bZ Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), introducing improvements in range, performance, charging, and design. The 2026 bZ features a new 74.7-kWh lithium-ion battery on the XLE Front-Wheel-Drive Plus (FWD Plus), XLE All-Wheel-Drive (AWD), and Limited (FWD/AWD) trims, offering a manufacturer-estimated range of up to 314 miles. A 57.7-kWh battery is available on the XLE FWD trim.

The 2026 bZ adopts a North American Charging System (NACS) port, providing access to thousands of high-speed charging stations. With DC fast charging, it can charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes under optimal conditions. It also supports Plug & Charge, enabling automatic authentication at select charging networks, reducing reliance on multiple apps.

Upgraded eAxles with silicon carbide semiconductors boost performance. AWD models deliver 338 combined system horsepower, a 50% increase, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds. FWD models now produce up to 221 horsepower, up from 201.

Renamed from bZ4X to bZ for simplicity, the 2026 model features a refreshed exterior with refined front fascia, slim LED daytime running lights, and updated overfenders, some with color-matched molding. The interior offers a spacious, tech-forward cabin with a redesigned console, two wireless chargers, a 14-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen, and 64-color ambient lighting.

The 2026 Toyota bZ is expected to reach dealerships in the second half of 2025, with pricing announced closer to the on-sale date.

Battery Options and Charging Enhancements

The bZ offers two battery sizes with the following estimated ranges:

• 314 miles (XLE FWD Plus, 74.7-kWh)
• 299 miles (Limited FWD, 74.7-kWh)
• 288 miles (XLE AWD, 74.7-kWh)
• 278 miles (Limited AWD, 74.7-kWh)
• 236 miles (XLE FWD, 57.7-kWh)

The NACS port supports DC fast charging and Level 1/2 AC charging with an 11-kW onboard charger (up from 7-kW). A dual-voltage charging cable is included. A battery pre-conditioning function optimizes DC fast charging in cold climates, activated manually or via navigation to a charging station. Steering wheel paddle shifters adjust regenerative braking, enhancing energy recovery. A battery thermal management system with a heat exchanger and heating valve improves charging efficiency in cold weather, complemented by energy-saving features like a heat pump, heated seats, steering wheel, and available radiant foot-and-leg heaters.

Battery safety measures include redundant monitoring of voltage, current, and temperature, plus a high-resistance coolant system to prevent thermal events during high-load conditions.

Performance and Capability

AWD models feature X-MODE, optimizing brake control and power delivery for traction, with Grip-Control for low-speed off-road performance. The BEV-dedicated e-TNGA platform, with a low-mounted battery, ensures a low center of gravity and rigid chassis. High-tensile steel and a dynamic suspension enhance handling, while Vehicle Stability Control and an intelligent throttle improve driver control.

Design and Comfort

The bZ, a small SUV, measures 184.6 inches long, 73.2 inches wide, 65 inches tall, with an 8.2-inch ground clearance and 112.2-inch wheelbase. The updated exterior features a sleeker front, while the interior includes a new console, slim dashboard, and 14-inch touchscreen. XLE and Limited trims offer heated SofTex steering wheels, ambient lighting, and dual wireless chargers. Front legroom is 42.1 inches, rear is 35.3 inches, with 27.7 cubic feet of cargo space. Exterior color options include single and two-tone schemes, with color-matched overfenders available.

Trim Features

XLE Grade

• FWD, FWD Plus, or AWD
• X-MODE (AWD)
• 18-inch alloy wheels
• 7-inch Multi-Information Display
• Fabric/SofTex seats, heated front seats
• 14-inch touchscreen, six-speaker audio
• Toyota Safety Sense 3.0
• Digital key (subscription required)

Limited Grade (adds/replaces)

• FWD or AWD
• 20-inch alloy wheels
• Multi-LED headlights
• Heated/ventilated SofTex seats
• Lane Change Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, Advanced Park
• Optional JBL 9-speaker audio

Technology and Connectivity

The 14-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia system, designed by Toyota’s Texas team, supports dual Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A Drive Connect 3-year trial includes Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation, and Destination Assist. Wi-Fi Connect (30 days/3GB) turns the bZ into a hotspot. Safety Connect and Service Connect (5-year minimum trial) offer emergency assistance, vehicle health reports, and more. Remote Connect (3-year trial) enables remote climate control, charging management, and digital key functionality.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist, Automatic High Beams, and Proactive Driving Assist. Standard features also include Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Safe Exit Alert, and the Star Safety System. Limited trims add Traffic Jam Assist, Lane Change Assist, Front Cross-Traffic Alert, and a Panoramic View Monitor.

Warranty and Maintenance

The bZ includes a 36-month/36,000-mile basic warranty, 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and 8-year/100,000-mile EV component warranty. ToyotaCare covers two years/25,000 miles of maintenance and three years of roadside assistance.

*Ranges and charging times vary based on conditions.
**Subscriptions required after trial periods; 4G network dependent.