Toyota grabbed the attention of the electric vehicle market earlier this week with the announcement of the new 2026 bZ, which was a rebranding of the previous bZ4X, with added power and range, along with a streamlined new name that was easier to say. While not exactly a game-changing addition to the compact EV segment, it was a welcomed improvement over the previous bZ4X model. Toyota has now followed up with the announcement of the 2026 bZ Woodland, an adventurous midsize off-shoot with an emphasis on off-the-pavement excursions, adding an interesting option to the brand’s growing EV lineup. Still, this more rugged model is entering the off-road electric SUV market a little late, with models like the Hyundai IONIQ 5 XRT and Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally already making a name for themselves. So, was the addition worth it, or is the bZ Woodland late to the off-road party?
Meet the bZ’s More Adventurous Sibling
While the bZ Woodland has “bZ” in its name, it is very much its own model, one that is centered around off-road capability and tackling more challenging terrain. Its individuality can easily be seen when examining its design. Toyota has stretched the bZ platform an additional six inches in length, and the rear has also been elevated one inch, offering additional cargo space. Roof rails are standard, giving you additional room for tents and other equipment, and the available all-terrain tires add even more rugged performance. These features are undoubtedly helpful, but is it enough to compete with some of its top off-roading rivals?
The bZ Woodland Has Its Work Cut Out for It
As an off-road electric SUV, the bZ Woodland’s competition is limited, but that doesn’t exactly make it an easy battle, especially going up against heavy hitters like the IONIQ 5 XTR and Mustang Mach-E Rally. Toyota includes two electric motors for standard all-wheel drive, offering drivers up to 375 hp, which is a solid output. It certainly beats the IONIQ 5 XRT’s 320 hp. But when you put the bZ Woodland up against the 2025 Mustang Mach-E Rally, it’s a much different story. Getting behind the wheel of the Ford allows you to utilize 480 hp; there’s simply no competition.
Are There Any Silver Linings to the bZ Woodland?
The bZ Woodland loses in some key areas, but is there anything about this new model that stands out when it comes to features and off-roading prowess? When it comes to range, it beats the IONIQ 5 XRT’s 259-mile range, getting an estimated 260 miles on a full charge. It’s not a drastic difference, but at this point, the bZ Woodland should take the win where it can get it. The Mustang Mach-E Rally provides a slight edge over the bZ Woodland, getting a range of 265 miles, but it’s not a huge difference.
When it comes to carrying all your camping gear for the road trip ahead, the bZ Woodland offers a spacious cargo area with over 30 cu.ft behind the second row, while the IONIQ 5 only gives you 26.3 cu.ft., and the Mustang Mach-E offers a slightly smaller 29.7 cu.ft. If the Great Outdoors is calling your name, power and cargo space are absolute must-haves for the adventure ahead. The larger size of bZ Woodland ensures that you’ll have ample room for both your cargo and the passengers sharing the adventure with you.
If your off-road travels have you driving over more challenging terrain, you’ll be happy to know that the bZ Woodland has a ground clearance of 8.3 inches. This easily beats the IONIQ 5 XRT’s seven inches and the Mustang Mach-E Rally’s disappointing 5.8 inches. These small victories don’t exactly make the bZ Woodland a compelling rugged SUV to consider. And seeing as this is its introduction into the EV world, it has a long road ahead of it.
Hardly the Off-Road Model Adventurous Drivers Are Looking For
The debut of the bZ Woodland is off to a bad start. It’s not that this off-road-focused model is a poor choice for discerning outdoor enthusiasts; it gets the job done and not much else. If there’s anything manufacturers can learn about this constantly expanding EV market, it is that they need to take chances to stand out. The Mustang Mach-E is a great example of this, and its Rally trim adds to this with its rugged abilities. What the bZ Woodland has to offer drivers is hardly anything special. Perhaps one benefit it may have against the competition is price, which has not been released yet. We’ll just have to see as it makes its entrance for the 2026 model year.
