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Toyota BZ Electric SUV Introduces Enhanced Range And Charging Features For 2026 Model Year
The 2026 Toyota bZ Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) is set to enhance its range, power, and design. The new model features a larger lithium-ion battery with a capacity of up to 74.7-kWh, available in XLE Front-Wheel-Drive Plus (FWD Plus), XLE All-Wheel-Drive (AWD), and Limited grades. This upgrade allows the vehicle to achieve an estimated range of up to 314 miles on a full charge.
Equipped with a North American Charging System (NACS) port, the 2026 bZ can access numerous high-speed charging stations across the country. Under optimal conditions, it can charge from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes using DC fast charging. The Plug & Charge capability simplifies the charging process by automatically identifying and authorising at select networks.
The AWD models now boast a 50% increase in horsepower, reaching 338 combined system net hp, compared to the previous model's 214 hp. This improvement enables acceleration from 0-60 MPH in just 4.9 seconds. Front Wheel Drive models also see an increase in output, delivering up to 221 hp.
The exterior of the bZ has been restyled for a sleeker appearance, featuring changes to the front fascia and lighting elements. New color-matched overfenders are available for a more streamlined look. Inside, the cabin offers advanced technology and comfort with a redesigned instrument panel and a larger 14-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen.
The bZ offers two battery choices: a 57.7-kWh unit and a larger 74.7-kWh option. The estimated all-electric drive ranges are as follows:
| Model | Battery Capacity | Estimated Range |
|---|---|---|
| XLE FWD Plus | 74.7-kWh | 314 miles |
| Limited FWD | 74.7-kWh | 299 miles |
| XLE AWD | 74.7-kWh | 288 miles |
| Limited AWD | 74.7-kWh | 278 miles |
| XLE FWD | 57.7-kWh | 236 miles |
A new battery pre-conditioning function optimises charging speed in colder climates by adjusting the battery temperature before DC fast charging begins.
Sophisticated Interior Features and Connectivity
The interior of the bZ is designed for both comfort and connectivity, featuring premium finishes and easy access to digital devices through USB ports and wireless chargers. A standard feature across all grades is the 14-inch touchscreen running Toyota's Audio Multimedia system, developed by their Texas-based Connected Technologies team.
The system includes trials for Toyota Connected Services such as Drive Connect, which offers Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation, and Destination Assist for three years. These services provide voice-activated commands, real-time navigation updates, and live agent assistance.
Advanced Safety Systems and Driver Assistance Technology
Toyota Safety Sense 3.0™ comes standard on the bZ, offering features like Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist, Automatic High Beams, Proactive Driving Assist, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Safe Exit Alert, and more.
"Toyota Safety Sense systems are not substitutes for safe driving," warns Toyota while highlighting these features designed to support driver awareness.
A Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation
Toyota continues its commitment to sustainable mobility with this latest BEV model as part of its electrified vehicle portfolio expansion. The company plans to start manufacturing automotive batteries at its North Carolina plant in spring 2025.
The new Toyota bZ will be available at dealerships in late 2025 with pricing details announced closer to its release date.
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