2026 Toyota bZ Lands

2026 Toyota bZ

The 2026 Toyota bZ has landed in the U.S., following its European reveal, and the updates look pretty dynamic. While the Europeans have kept the bZ4x badge, here in America, the ride is simply dubbed the Toyota bZ. With a significant bump in power to 338 horsepower from a dual-motor setup, it’s clear Toyota is bringing more muscle to the EV party.

Design

First impressions matter, and the bZ is leading with a sharper design. Those LED headlights are sleeker, and the bumper intakes pack a more aggressive stance. Whether rolling on 18-inch or beefy 20-inch alloy wheels, the crossover’s aesthetic feels right at home on American roads. The body-color fenders available in select colors like Wind Chill Pearl and Heavy Metal add a touch of class, making that 184.6-inch frame quite the head-turner.

Tech & Comfort

Step inside to find a dashboard transformed. A sprawling 14-inch touchscreen commands the cockpit, giving drivers fingertip control over navigation and entertainment. Dual wireless charging pads are a thoughtful upgrade, ensuring devices stay juiced up. Ambient lighting in a rainbow of 64 color options lets the cabin mood reflect the driver’s vibe. Toyota’s innovation shines further with paddle shifters that allow fine-tuning of regenerative braking, borrowing a sporty element into the electric driving experience.

Power & Performance

Under the hood—or shall we say under the floor—the e-TNGA platform has been revitalized with new battery options. The AWD configuration delivers a respectable 338 horsepower, while the FWD version yields 218 horsepower. This marks a significant leap over the previous bZ4x’s output. Paired with its X-Mode technology, it keeps stable traction whether it’s handling slippery roads or cruising the highways.

A standout feature of the 2026 model is the enhanced battery capacity, with a 74.7 kWh battery propelling it up to 314 miles on a single charge. For those needing less, a 57.7 kWh option gets around 236 miles, making the bZ versatile for both city dwellers and road trippers alike.

Charging Options

Not to be left behind in the charging race, Toyota has equipped the bZ with a NACS port, meaning access to Tesla’s vast Supercharger network is now a reality. Quick charging from 10% to 80% can be achieved in just under half an hour with a compatible DC fast charger, making long journeys more seamless.

Drive Feel

Driving the 2026 Toyota bZ is quite an experience for an EV of its class. It draws parallels to competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and even outpaces in terms of handling and on-road dynamics. It offers a stable and composed ride with enough pep to keep things interesting, ensuring that it’s not just an eco-friendly choice, but also a fun one.

What’s Next?

American shoppers can expect the 2026 bZ to hit dealerships in the second half of the year, offered in both XLE and Limited trims. Prices remain a mystery for now, but as that release date inches closer, more details will surely emerge. As Toyota gears up to roll out even more electric models, the bZ is just the start of a more electrified driving future.