Toyota has announced significant updates for its electric SUV, now named the 2026 Toyota bZ, for the United States market. The new model year features improvements in driving range, power output, charging capabilities, and vehicle design. A larger lithium-ion battery, with a total capacity of up to 74.7-kWh, is now available on several trims, contributing to a manufacturer-estimated driving range of up to 314 miles on a full charge for select models. This larger battery is standard on the new XLE Front-Wheel-Drive Plus (FWD Plus), as well as the XLE All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) and Limited (FWD/AWD) grades. A 57.7-kWh battery will also be offered on the XLE FWD model.
Powertrain and Performance Details: The 2026 Toyota bZ is equipped with upgraded eAxles that are more compact, lightweight, and energy-efficient, now utilizing silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductors for enhanced power delivery. All-Wheel Drive models now produce a combined system net horsepower of 338 hp, a 50% increase, enabling a 0-60 MPH acceleration time of 4.9 seconds. Front-Wheel Drive models also receive a power increase, now delivering up to 221 hp, up from the previous 201 hp.
Charging Technology and Battery Features: A key enhancement for the 2026 bZ is the adoption of a North American Charging System (NACS) charging port, providing access to a vast network of high-speed charging stations across the United States. Under ideal conditions using DC fast charging, the vehicle can charge from 10% to 80% battery capacity in approximately 30 minutes. The 2026 bZ also incorporates Plug & Charge capability, an industry standard that simplifies charging at compatible networks through automatic identification and authorization. Additionally, all models feature a new battery pre-conditioning system designed to optimize battery temperature for faster DC fast charging, particularly in cold weather, and can be activated manually or automatically when navigating to a fast-charging station. The vehicle also includes a higher capacity 11-kW on-board AC charger for Level One and Level Two AC charging. Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters have been added to control and adjust the regenerative braking system. The bZ also utilizes a battery thermal management system with a water-to-water heat exchanger and heating adjustment valve to further improve DC charging speeds in cold temperatures.
Exterior and Interior Design Updates: The model name has been simplified from Toyota bZ4X to Toyota bZ for the 2026 model year. The exterior design has been refreshed with subtle changes to the front fascia and lighting elements, including slim LED daytime running lights integrated into a sleek hammerhead front end. Redesigned front overfenders, with an available color-matched moulding, contribute to a lower profile front appearance. The interior of the 2026 bZ has been updated to offer a more spacious and technologically advanced environment. The center console has been optimized, now featuring two front wireless chargers, and a new, slimmer dashboard houses a larger 14-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen and utilizes soft-touch materials for a more premium feel. The cabin also features 64-color customizable ambient lighting.
Key Standard and Available Features: The XLE grade includes X-MODE on AWD models, 18-inch alloy wheels, a top-mount Multi-Information Display, front and rear ambient lighting with 64 colors, a heated steering wheel and front seats, dual wireless smartphone charging, four USB-C ports, and a 14-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia system. The Limited grade adds 20-inch wheels, multi-LED headlights, SofTex-trimmed seats with power adjustability and lumbar support, heated and ventilated front seats, Lane Change Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, Front Cross Traffic Alert, and Advanced Park. Available features include a JBL Premium Audio system, a panoramic fixed-glass moonroof, and Intuitive Connected Tech with a Drive Connect trial.
Safety and Driver Assistance Systems: The 2026 bZ comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0™, which includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist, Automatic High Beams, Proactive Driving Assist, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic 1 Alert, and Safe Exit Alert. The Limited grade also includes Traffic Jam Assist, Lane Change Assist, Front Cross-Traffic Alert, and a Panoramic View Monitor with Perimeter Scan and Curb View. The Toyota bZ is also equipped with Toyota’s Star Safety System.
Summary:
- Increased driving range up to 314 miles on select models.
- Introduction of a NACS charging port for broader charging network access.
- Enhanced power output for both FWD (up to 221 hp) and AWD (338 hp) configurations.
- Upgraded eAxles with silicon carbide semiconductors for improved efficiency.
- Refreshed exterior design with a new front fascia and lighting signature.
- Updated interior featuring a redesigned console, slimmer dashboard, and a standard 14-inch touchscreen.
- Inclusion of battery pre-conditioning to optimize charging in cold weather.
- Standard Toyota Safety Sense 3.0™ suite of active safety features.
Disclaimer: Estimated driving range and charging times may vary depending on environmental conditions, driving habits, and charging infrastructure.
Source: Toyota
AI Assistance: Gemini
