In a world where EVs are dropping like flies, this week I am back behind the wheel of one that continues to live on. The 2026 Toyota bZ - formerly the bZ4X. Debuting as a 2023 model, a name change isn't the only update for its third model year. Also new, tweaked looks, improved power, range and charging performance, and the newly available XLE Front-Wheel-Drive Plus trim I'm test driving.
The bZ looses some its bulky look for 2026. A redesigned front end with slimmer headlights and sharper angles give it a sleeker look. So, too, do new color-matched over-fenders. My test model's Heavy Metal hue pairs well with 18-inch alloy wheels.
A ducktail rear spoiler and rear lower diffuser round out the rear. Standard exterior features include LED headlights, daytime running lights and tail lights along with heated power folding side mirrors.
The bZ - available as front-wheel or all-wheel drive - gets a power boost for 2026. Thanks to upgrades to its eAxles - a fancy word for its integrated electric drive module - single-motor FWD models get a boost from 201 to 221 horsepower. Dual-motor AWD models jump 50% to 338.
While I'm always going to choose more horsepower, the 221 works for the bZ and acceleration felt fine thanks to the high-end torque an EV delivers.
Overall, the bZ is an enjoyable, easy SUV to drive, and one of Toyota's quietest rides, too. It's comfortable thanks to a great suspension. With it's 8.1 inches of ground clearance you also get a great view of the road.
Note that while the bZ doesn't have true one pedal drive, it has four level regenerative braking controlled via the paddle shifters.
Interior
Updates headline the bZ's roomy interior.
A redesigned floating center console really elevates the cabin. It ditches glossy black for a sleeker, more upscale look. It also incorporates new dual-wireless charging pads. The console is also home to the dial-style gear shift knob, electronic parking brake and auto brake hold. Cupholders go side-by side, which is to me a more ergonomic design than the previous one. On the down side I found the new dual-hinged console bin design a bit cumbersome to open, impeded somewhat by the positioning of my seat. It now opens from the sides instead of the front.
Designers also slimmed down the passenger-side dashboard so it's less bulky.
Another bZ update is a new standard 14-inch multimedia screen. It runs Toyota last-generation multimedia system that's compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. New for 2026, Toyota BEVs can now enable Apple Maps EV Routing via Apple CarPlay which helps you plan trips by including designated charging stops along your route. Also new this year - standard 64 ambient color lighting.
The XLE's well-designed, comfortable fabric and Softex-trimmed seats feature nice stitching. The 8-way power driver's seat has lumbar support. The passenger's seat is 6-way manual. Both front seats feature three-level heating. I continue to be at odds with the 7-inch driver display's forward-set positioning on the dash.
Reclining fold-flat cloth seats greet second row passengers. Legroom is nice but you'll lose some headroom due to stadium seating. The second row features soft-touch seat backs, a drop-down center console, two cupholders, A/C vents and 2 USB-C ports.
A power liftgate reveals ample cargo space and a tonneau cover. Optional cargo and carpet mats in the cabin add a premium look.
Other standard XLE features include a 6-speaker sound system, leather-trimmed, heated steering wheel, rain-sensing wipers, digital key capability, a 12V/120W auxiliary power outlet and 4 USB-C ports split between rows.
Charging and Range
The bZ gets a range boost this year thanks to a new-for-2026 larger lithium-ion battery with a higher total capacity of up to 74.7 kWh. This means a 25% range boost for the XLE Plus to 314, the most range in the lineup. (Range drops to 288 for the XLE AWD.)
Also new for 2026, the bZ adds an integrated NACS charging port and Plug & Charge capability which allows you to start charging simply plugging in after a one-time enrollment setup through the Toyota app.
Be advised that due to the location of the NACS port you'll prefer a longer charging cord at a Tesla charger. For an example of charging cost, with the A/C on, it cost me $7.39 to charge from 68% - 82% at a Tesla charger. By the way, using the AC does effect range and the difference is clearly indicated in the digital display while charging.
As for charging times, Toyota cites a 30 min 10-80% DC fast-charging time, and 7 hours on a Level 2. Equipment includes an 11 kW onboard charger and dual-voltage Level 1/Level 2 charging.
Safety
The 2026 bZ comes with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 with pre-collision, dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, lane tracing assist, road sign assist and ProActive Driving Assist. It's also equipped with Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, front and rear parking assist with auto brake, and safe exit alert.
Options
Options include the Premium paint ($475) and two-tone paint ($500), wheel locks ($105) and carpet floor/cargo mat ($339) and door sill protectors ($199).
As equipped, the MSRP on my 2026 model rings in for about $3000 less than the 2025 Nightshade AWD I reviewed - and $12,000 less than the 2023 Limited AWD model I reviewed.
Verdict
While the bZ misses out on Toyota's newly launched tech this model year, it still has some great updates. It's a likable all-electric SUV overall if you're a fan of Toyota design, style and technology and are ready to try live in the EV lane. It's also well-priced so the value is there. But remember, Car Pro Show host Jerry Reynolds always recommends leasing an EV over buying one.
2026 Toyota bZ XLE FWD Plus