When it comes to car model names, the Toyota bZ4X didn’t exactly roll off the tongue. Since its debut in 2023, the bZ4X has been an odd-sounding model among its siblings, like the Corolla and 4Runner. It looks like Toyota has finally acknowledged this misstep, as the all-electric model has been rebranded as the much sharper-sounding bZ for the 2026 model year. But make no mistake; this is more than just a simple name change. With the new name comes an impressive boost in performance and range. While some design changes are apparent, it would have been nice to see a complete overhaul to match the drastic changes in performance. While the bZ4X was a competent compact all-electric SUV, it didn’t exactly stand out from models like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Chevy Equinox EV. Perhaps this bZ rebirth is exactly what this SUV needs to start making a name for itself in the growing EV market. But is it enough?
A Significant Leap in Power, Performance, and Range
With the name change out of the way, let’s dive into the truly important changes. Power, performance, and range are at the forefront of this new entry into the Toyota all-electric lineup. The 2026 bZ features a new battery lineup that includes a 74.7 kWh battery, available with both single or dual motors, along with a new smaller 57.7 kWh battery that comes in a single motor configuration. Utilizing the larger battery with dual motors, you can take advantage of an impressive 338 hp, a huge leap from the available 214 hp found on the 2025 bZ4X. If you have a serious need for speed, you’ll be happy to know that the all-wheel drive bZ can go from zero to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds—not bad for a compact SUV. On top of that, the range gets a significant boost, with the 74.7 kWh battery with front-wheel drive giving you an estimated 314-mile range on a full charge, another considerable improvement compared to the 2025 bZ4X’s available 252-mile range.
This impressive power and performance is further complimented by the bZ’s adoption of the North American Charging System (NACS) charging port, broadening the model’s access to more high-speed charging stations across the country. This includes the entire Tesla Supercharger network. Any increase in charging availability is a welcomed addition for any EV driver. When using DC Fast Charging, you can charge the battery from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes.
A Lackluster Amount of Changes to the Interior and Exterior
For those looking for a head-turning exterior design complimented by an even more comfortable cabin, you probably won’t find much to get excited about. The black fenders are gone, but for the most part, the measurements stay the same; that means the same legroom, headroom, and cargo space you’ll find in the bZ4X. This feels like a missed opportunity for Toyota. With so much emphasis on increased power and range, it feels like the overall design was forgotten about. But it’s not entirely disappointing; a new 14-inch infotainment screen is a welcomed addition when compared to the previous 12.3-inch screen. There are even dual wireless charging pads and front and rear ambient lighting. Are these enhancements going to be a deciding factor in purchasing the new bZ? Probably not.
Great Power and Performance, and Not Much Else
Factors like range and charging times are more than likely going to be at the top of every EV-buyers’ list, and for good reason. Toyota is doing everything right in this regard, and the numbers clearly demonstrate it. But is it enough to make this rebranding worth it? At this point, it feels like this will yield mixed results. With no compelling design changes, this model may be overlooked by the EV-buying public. The 2026 Toyota bZ is certainly a good start, but there is more that needs to be refined if it wants to compete with its compact electric SUV rivals.
