Toyota has updated its bZ electric SUV—formerly the bZ4X—with major performance, charging, and design improvements for the 2026 model year. The changes aim to increase EV appeal with better range, a new AWD powertrain, Tesla-compatible charging, and refined styling.
Key Updates for 2026 Toyota bZ
- New battery options with up to 314 miles of range
- Faster DC charging and Tesla NACS port support
- AWD model delivers 338 hp, up from 214 hp
- Streamlined design with body-color trim and LED lighting
- New infotainment system with larger touchscreen and over-the-air updates
Battery Options and Range: Up to 314 Miles
Toyota now offers two lithium-ion battery packs:
| Battery | Range (FWD) | Range (AWD) |
|---|---|---|
| 57.7 kWh | 236 miles | N/A |
| 74.7 kWh | 314 miles | 278–288 miles |
- The 74.7 kWh pack is standard on all AWD trims and optional on FWD.
- Both packs use new semiconductor technology to boost efficiency and reduce loss.
Charging: Now Tesla-Compatible and Faster
Charging upgrades remove one of the bZ’s past limitations. Key improvements include:
- NACS (Tesla plug): Access to Tesla’s Supercharger network by 2026.
- CCS compatibility: Maintained via adapter during transition.
- Plug-and-Charge: Enables automatic payment and authentication.
- Battery pre-conditioning: Speeds up cold-weather charging.
DC fast charging estimates:
- FWD (74.7 kWh): 10–80% in ~30 minutes
- AWD (74.7 kWh): ~35 minutes
Powertrain and Performance: 0–60 in 4.9 Seconds
2026 brings a performance leap, especially for the AWD trims:
| Model | Horsepower | 0–60 mph |
|---|---|---|
| FWD | 221 hp | ~7.1 sec |
| AWD | 338 hp | 4.9 sec |
- AWD versions now use dual electric motors with a new e-Axle unit.
- The system replaces the prior 214 hp AWD setup.
