Sporting a new name, more power, and greater range, the 2026 bZ replaces the previous bZ4X and makes Toyota’s electric compact crossover SUV a more practical and tempting option for electric vehicle (EV) buyers. Toyota says it will arrive at dealerships in the second half of 2025.
Aside from its name change, the most notable update to the 2026 Toyota bZ is a larger 74.7 kilowatt-hour (kWh) lithium-ion battery pack option. Toyota says it increases the bZ’s driving range by 25% to an estimated 314 miles in the front-wheel-drive (FWD) XLE Plus trim. A smaller 57.7-kWh battery is available in the base XLE FWD model, supplying 235 miles of range.
The new 2026 bZ sees improvements to performance as well. According to Toyota, all-wheel drive (AWD) models now produce up to 338 horsepower, an impressive 50% increase over last year’s model, resulting in a zero-to-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds. The FWD models see a smaller bump to 221 hp, 20 more than the previous 201 hp.
A North American Charging Standard (NACS) port comes standard on all bZs, giving owners access to a growing network of DC fast chargers. Under optimal conditions, Toyota says it can charge the bZ from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes. It also includes Plug & Charge functionality for seamless payment and authentication at compatible stations.
Battery pre-conditioning functionality and a thermal management system are standard to ensure faster charging times regardless of the weather. Owners can manually set the battery pre-conditioning function or employ it automatically when using the navigation system to drive to a fast-charging station. Toyota equips the bZ with a heat pump for heating and air conditioning to save on energy consumption.
Inside, the bZ receives a more refined and high-tech interior layout. A new 14-inch touchscreen is standard across all trim levels, paired with dual wireless phone chargers and 64-color customizable ambient lighting. Toyota’s infotainment system offers cloud-based navigation, a digital voice assistant, and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
The bZ XLE includes numerous convenience features, including heated front seats and steering wheel, rain-sensing wipers, a power liftgate, and digital key functionality (with a subscription). Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 is also standard, bringing advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, and a forward-collision warning system with pedestrian detection.
The 2026 bZ competes in a crowded segment filled with compelling choices. Rivals include the Chevrolet Equinox EV, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Honda Prologue, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, Nissan Ariya, Subaru Solterra, and Volkswagen ID.4.
While the bZ faces formidable competition, its improvements in range and performance, refreshed interior and exterior design, and Toyota’s reputation for reliability come together to make it an appealing option for EV shoppers who’ve been waiting on the sidelines.
Toyota is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of May 13, 2025, but it may have changed since then. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker’s website or your local dealership.
Zac Johnson is a lifelong car enthusiast pursuing his dream of becoming an automotive journalist. He is a social media manager, contributor to JDPower.com, a member of the Automotive Press Association, and founder of Best Daily Drivers.
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