2026 Toyota bZ, including what we know about range, performance, charging and what to watch.

✅ What’s new / key highlights

• Toyota dropped the "4X” in the name; the 2026 model is called simply "bZ” rather than "bZ4X”. 

• Two battery-pack options: a 57.7 kWh pack (on base FWD) and a larger 74.7 kWh pack (on higher trims) for the U.S. model. 

• Range estimates improved significantly: up to about 314 miles on the largest battery FWD version. 

• The AWD version with the large battery delivers up to ~ 338 hp combined and quicker acceleration. 

• Charging upgrades: Includes a North American Charging Standard (NACS) port (so access to Tesla Supercharger network), DC fast charging ~150 kW and battery pre-conditioning. 

📊 Key specs at a glance

👍 What’s good

• The much improved range (especially the ~314 mile option) makes it much more competitive in the EV crossover field.

• Inclusion of Tesla’s NACS charging port is a big plus for access to fast-charging infrastructure.

• Strong performance especially in the AWD version with 338 hp gives you more than just basic EV driving.

• As part of the "bZ” lineup, it signals Toyota’s increased push into EVs and you get modern interior/tech features.

👀 Things to watch / potential drawbacks

• While range is improved, the actual real-world highway range (at high speeds, cold weather, etc.) may still be meaningfully lower.

• DC fast charging capability (150 kW) is decent but not class-leading compared to some rivals offering higher wattage charging.

• Pricing, availability of the higher battery version, and incentives will affect value.

• As with many EVs: if you regularly do long highway trips, check actual range and availability of chargers for your route.

• Because battery size and drivetrain (FWD vs AWD) vary, you’ll want to confirm which battery is in your trim and how that affects range.

🎯 Should you consider it?

If you’re looking for a modern electric crossover from a trusted brand and you like the idea of a ~300-mile+ range option, the 2026 bZ is very worth considering. If your usage is mostly city/commercial driving, or you have access to home charging, it could be a strong fit. If you do very long highway trips regularly and charger access is limited, make sure the 74.7 kWh version (or whichever variant with best range) is the one you get.

If you like, I can check the estimated MPGe / equivalent city/highway electric efficiency metrics, the detailed trim-by-trim pricing, or compare it side-by-side with rivals like the Tesla Model Y or Hyundai Ioniq 5 for the 2026 model year. Would you like me to pull one of those?