Toyota's 2026 bZ Electric SUV Brings More Range, Faster Charging, and Fresh Styling

Two Battery Options and Quicker Charging

For 2026, there are two battery sizes to pick from—a standard 57.7-kWh battery and a beefier 74.7-kWh pack. Here’s what you can expect for driving range on a full charge:

• 314 miles (XLE FWD Plus, 74.7-kWh battery)*
• 299 miles (Limited FWD, 74.7-kWh battery)*
• 288 miles (XLE AWD, 74.7-kWh battery)*
• 278 miles (Limited AWD, 74.7-kWh battery)*
• 236 miles (XLE FWD, 57.7-kWh battery)*
*Toyota range estimates may vary based on driving conditions and usage

Toyota is updating the bZ with some handy new charging features, making it more practical for everyday use. You'll find the charging port conveniently located on the vehicle's front right side, along with an upgraded 11-kW onboard AC charger, a step up from the previous 7-kW unit. Plus, the bZ now includes a dual-voltage charging cable for versatility.

To make life easier, especially in colder climates, Toyota has added a battery pre-conditioning feature. This nifty system optimizes the battery temperature for quicker DC fast-charging. Drivers can activate it manually or let the car handle it automatically by simply setting a fast-charging station as the destination in the navigation system.

Another cool feature for the 2026 bZ is the addition of paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel. These paddles aren’t for shifting gears like in a traditional car; instead, they control regenerative braking, allowing drivers to easily adjust the braking intensity to recover more energy and boost battery efficiency.

The updated bZ also gets a smarter battery thermal management system, including a water-to-water heat exchanger and a heating adjustment valve to raise battery temperatures when necessary. This is particularly useful for optimizing charging speeds in colder weather.

Toyota didn't stop there—additional energy-saving enhancements include:

• A heat pump system for efficient heating and air-conditioning.
• Heated front seats and steering wheel as standard.
• An optional radiant heater to keep your feet and legs cozy.
• Optional heated rear seats and ventilated front seats.

When it comes to battery safety, Toyota has incorporated comprehensive protection features. The battery's design and multiple monitoring systems continuously track voltage, current, and temperature, quickly identifying and preventing any abnormal heating conditions. Additionally, a high-resistance coolant circulation system is included to guard against thermal events, even under demanding scenarios such as repeated high-speed driving and rapid charging.

Impressive Performance

The 2026 AWD bZ models now feature the surprisingly capable X-MODE system. X-MODE lets the driver easily select different driving modes tailored to road conditions, automatically optimizing brake control and power delivery at each wheel for improved traction and handling.

One highlight is Grip-Control, activated at lower speeds, which modulates motor power to enhance off-road performance. This smart feature adjusts to varying road surfaces, maintaining a steady speed to prevent slipping, especially on rough terrain.

Driving dynamics are enhanced by the BEV-specific e-TNGA platform, offering a low center of gravity and a sturdy chassis, thanks to the placement of the high-capacity lithium-ion battery pack flat beneath the floor. Additional structural rigidity is provided by the battery cross-framing.

The bZ also benefits from a lightweight body, reinforced with high-tensile steel around the battery pack. Combined with a dynamic suspension setup, this contributes significantly to the vehicle’s responsive driving feel. Moreover, the intelligent throttle ensures smoother acceleration and deceleration, while Vehicle Stability Control helps drivers maintain steady control, even under challenging conditions.

Design Updates and Comfort Improvements

The Toyota bZ comfortably resides in the small SUV segment, boasting an 8.2-inch ground clearance and dimensions designed for a practical yet agile drive. With an overall length of 184.6 inches, width of 73.2 inches, height of 65 inches (including antenna), and a generous 112.2-inch wheelbase, it delivers both comfort and stability.

For 2026, the bZ sports fresh updates inside and out. The front end receives a sleek, refined makeover, and the cabin features a newly redesigned center console and instrument panel with a 14-inch multimedia touchscreen as standard.

Both the XLE and Limited trims emphasize tech and comfort. The dashboard now offers a slimmer profile and customizable ambient lighting with 64 color choices. Tech enthusiasts will appreciate dual Qi-compatible wireless smartphone chargers. Additionally, standard features across trims include a heated SofTex-trimmed steering wheel equipped with regenerative braking paddles and a convenient top-mounted Multi-Information Display.

The interior offers ample space, with generous front legroom (42.1 inches) and rear legroom (35.3 inches). Cargo capacity is also practical, offering 27.7 cubic feet behind the second-row seats.

For a personalized look, the 2026 bZ offers a variety of attractive exterior color options, including color-matched overfenders for select shades such as Wind Chill Pearl, Heavy Metal, or Black. Both single and two-tone paint combinations are available, ensuring something to suit every style.