Toyota EV Crossover Levels Up
Toyota was one of the pioneers of hybrid technology but has been relatively late to the full-electric game. The company’s first mainstream electric vehicle, the bZ4X crossover, lagged behind competitors in range and charging speed.
However, the clever crossover offers the things loyal Toyota customers value most: solid build quality, practicality, and the reassurance of the Toyota brand. Now, though, it’s clear Toyota is serious about EVs with the new 2026 bZ. It’s a major upgrade to the bZ4X that not only will please Toyota loyalists but also attract new buyers to the brand.
For 2026, the bZ incorporates major advancements in range, charging, performance, and design. Indeed, the 2026 bZ is immediately recognizable by its refreshed exterior. The “hammerhead” front end features a slim LED light bar incorporating the daytime running lights and separate headlights, while revised wheel arch trim is now available on body-color paint that blends into a sleeker fascia. Overall, this is a more sophisticated, more premium-looking vehicle.
bZ Range and Performance
Under the hood – or more correctly, under the floor – of the new bZ are revised electric motors that provide more power and performance. Compact and lightweight e-axles have been upgraded with new silicon-carbide semiconductors to deliver higher power output.
Front-wheel drive models get a 20-horsepower jump from 201 to 221 hp, and all-wheel drive models get a 50 percent boost, up to a total of 338 hp for the total system. That’s enough to deliver a dash to 60 mph in about 5 seconds, much quicker than before.
Despite the extra power, the new bZ can go further on a charge. Some of that is thanks to increased efficiency from the power electronics, but there is also a bigger battery pack. Without being physically bigger, the long-distance battery now has a total capacity of 74.7 kWh, enough to power the XLE front-wheel drive Plus (FWD Plus) model to 314 miles of estimated range on a full charge, a huge jump over the bZ4X. All-wheel drive models, and models with the larger 20-inch wheels, offer a little less range, with front-wheel drive models offering a smaller battery option of 57.7 kWh.
- XLE FWD Plus with 74.7-kWh battery: 314 miles
- Limited FWD with 74.7-kWh battery: 299 miles
- XLE AWD with 74.7-kWh battery: 288 miles
- Limited AWD with 74.7-kWh battery: 278 miles
- XLE FWD with 57.7-kWh battery: 236 miles
Further improvements to efficiency come thanks to a new battery thermal management system, which uses a water-to-water heat exchanger, and a new standard heat pump system for heating and air conditioning, significantly improving range and efficiency on cold weather. There are also paddles mounted to the steering wheel that let the driver control regenerative braking, capturing additional energy and transferring it to the battery when slowing down.
Toyota bZ Charging Improvements
For road tripping, there is a new battery pre-conditioning function, which brings the battery to the right temperature for faster charging on the go, especially in cold climates. If you’re using the navigation system in the car, it can warm up the battery automatically before arriving at a suggested charging stop to minimize charging times.
Toyota was one of the pioneers of hybrid technology but has been relatively late to the full-electric game. Curious about hybrids? Check out our Hybrid Vehicles 101 guide
In addition to faster DC speeds of up to 150 kW, the 2026 Toyota bZ’s biggest charging news is its move to a Tesla-style NACS (North American Charging Standard) charging port. This means that Toyota drivers can now access Tesla’s excellent high-speed Supercharger network alongside other networks, significantly increasing convenience on long trips.
New plug-and-charge capability, an industry-standard protocol, allows drivers to simply plug in and start charging on selected networks without having to fuss around with apps or payment systems.
Inside the 2026 bZ: Features and Tech
The interior of the 2026 bZ has also been upgraded. The spacious cabin has received a tech upgrade and now gets a larger 14-inch multimedia system with touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and there are now two wireless charging pads in the center console. New ambient lighting gives a choice of 64 different colors, to enhance the look alongside new soft-touch materials. Standard heated seats and steering wheel make colder climates a breeze, and ventilated front seats are great during hot summer days.
All 2026 Toyota bZ models have the available Toyota Digital Key, which uses a smartphone instead of a physical key. The function lets owners share vehicle access with friends and family, making it simple to lock, unlock and start the vehicle all through the Toyota App.
There’s also a full range of active safety and driver assistance features. Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection; full-speed dynamic cruise control; lane departure assist with steering assist; lane tracing assist; road sign assist; automatic high beams; and proactive driving assist.
2026 Toyota bZ Pricing and Availability
Toyota has yet to announce a starting MSRP for the 2026 bZ, which will arrive in dealerships in late 2025. Expect a modest increase over the 2025 bZ4X. Given all of the improvements, the new name, and likely new price, are likely warranted. For those intent on buying a Toyota, this is a significantly more competitive EV that should be worth waiting for.
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