Toyota’s 2026 bZ Finally Catches Up in the EV Race - What That Means for Your Current Car

Toyota has given its compact electric SUV a serious makeover. The 2026 bZ – dropping the clunky “4X” from its predecessor’s name – arrives with more power, better range, and faster charging. After a day driving the new model back-to-back with the old bZ4X, it’s clear Toyota listened to the critics.

The front-wheel-drive XLE Plus now delivers 221 horsepower, up from 201, and range jumps from 252 miles to 314 on the EPA cycle. More importantly, real-world highway range improved from a disappointing 160 miles to a competitive 250 miles. 4.

Charging also gets a long-overdue upgrade. The onboard charger doubles to 11.0 kilowatts, and a new NACS port means access to Tesla Superchargers. Peak DC fast-charging remains capped at 150 kilowatts, but the practical benefit for buyers is real: more stations, less waiting.

Inside, the cabin feels airier with a redesigned center console and a larger touchscreen. The steering is lighter, the suspension firmer, and the overall ride more composed. Base pricing starts under $37,000, with our well-equipped XLE Plus tester coming in at $40,778.

So what does this mean for owners of other EVs? If you drive a first-generation bZ4X or a rival model from 2023–2024, expect resale values to soften as this updated Toyota raises the bar. And if you’ve been frustrated by slow charging or limited range, the bZ signals that the industry is finally addressing those pain points.

For Boca Auto Care customers, it’s a reminder that staying current with recalls, software updates, and charging-port maintenance keeps your EV – whatever the make – running at its best.