Range, Charging, and Exterior Updates for the New Model Year
Toyota has made some serious changes to the 2026 bZ all-electric SUV. Find out what to expect before it hits your local Toyota dealer.
EV enthusiasts are already getting excited about the 2026 Toyota bZ BEV. The automaker has announced performance, range, output, and vehicle design changes for the upcoming model year. This impressive EV SUV isn’t available at the Toyota dealer yet, but you can find out what to expect from the changes now.
More Range and Faster Charging
The first thing you should know about the 2026 Toyota bZ is that the automaker has put in a larger lithium-ion battery with a total capacity of up to 74.7 kWh. Models equipped with this battery will have a manufacturer-estimated range of 314 miles.
You’ll be able to get the new, larger battery on XLE FWD Plus, XLE AWD, and Limited models. The XLE FWD will also come with an optional smaller battery rated for 57.7 kWh.
All 2026 bZs will feature a North American Charging System (NACS) charging port. This port gives vehicle owners access to thousands of DC fast-charging stations across the US. The 2026 bZ will charge from 10 to 80% when using DC fast-charging stations in around 30 minutes.
The new bZ will also feature Plug & Charge capability. This industry-standard protocol lets vehicles automatically identify, authenticate, and authorize purchases on various charging networks, eliminating the need for some mobile charging applications.
Performance Updates Extend Beyond the Battery
Toyota has made performance upgrades to the bZ that extend beyond increasing range and improving charge times. The automaker has also updated its EV SUVs’ eAxles, which now use silicon carbide semiconductors to increase power output.
On AWD models, the power output will increase by 50% to 338 hp. AWD bZ models can race from 0 to 60 in just 4.9 seconds. FWD models will get a power boost to 221 hp from 201 hp.
What’s In a Name?
By now, you may have noticed that we’ve been referring to the former Toyota bZ4X more simply as the bZ. It’s not a stylistic choice. Toyota opted to simplify the name while refreshing its EV SUV’s exterior.
Speaking of exterior upgrades, you’ll find that the bZ’s new design incorporates subtle refinements to the SUV’s front fascia and lights. Redesigned front overfenders create a more modern look, and the newly available color-matched moulding blends into the front fascia for a more polished look.
Inside the bZ’s cabin is a spacious, elegantly designed interior that maximizes comfort and connectivity. Toyota has optimized its console layout, adding two front wireless chargers and a slimmed-down dashboard. You’ll also notice a larger, 14-inch infotainment touchscreen.
When to Expect the bZ at Your Toyota Dealer
The bZ isn’t available at your local Toyota dealer yet. Drivers interested in purchasing a newly redesigned 2026 Toyota bZ will have to wait until the second half of 2025. We’ll also learn the MSRP closer to the start of sales.