Let’s be honest: the Toyota bZ4X didn’t exactly blow anyone’s socks off when it debuted. It was competent but a little... forgettable. Fast-forward to 2026, and Toyota’s EV SUV is getting a much-needed refresh. It’s not a radical redesign, but it's clear Toyota listened to the critiques. The bZ4X finally feels like it's finding its footing in the electric age.
Same Look, Sharper Focus
From the outside, you might need to squint to spot the differences the body is basically unchanged. But under the skin, Toyota has been busy. The new bZ4X now comes with a more powerful front wheel drive setup (221 horsepower vs. the old 201) and a much punchier all-wheel-drive version with 338 horsepower. Translation? You’ll feel more confident merging onto the freeway or zipping around town.
Charging: Finally Competitive
One of the biggest gripes with the old model was its sluggish fast-charging. Toyota seems to have taken that to heart. The 2026 model features battery preconditioning, which helps the car charge quicker especially in colder weather. Add Plug & Charge and Tesla Supercharger compatibility into the mix, and suddenly, charging this thing doesn’t feel like a chore anymore.
Tech That Actually Feels Modern
Inside, the changes are much more noticeable. A cleaner, more streamlined dashboard now features a larger 14-inch touchscreen, better organised controls, and improved storage space. Toyota also added more soundproofing, so the cabin feels quieter and more premium than before. Two wireless charging pads, better materials, and subtle design updates make it feel like a car from this decade.
Smarter, Safer
As expected, the bZ4X continues to come with a solid suite of driver assistance tech. Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind spot monitoring it’s all here. No surprises, just the kind of safety you’d expect in a car from a brand like Toyota.
When Can You Get One?
Toyota says the refreshed bZ4X will hit European dealerships by the end of 2025, with a U.S. launch following in spring 2026. Pricing is still TBD, but expect it to stay in the ballpark of the current model likely starting in the mid-to-high $40K range.
Bottom Line
The 2026 Toyota bZ4X doesn’t reinvent the EV, but it doesn’t need to. This update is all about refinement better range, faster charging, smarter tech, and more satisfying performance. If the original bZ4X was a first draft, this one feels closer to the final cut. Still not the flashiest EV out there, but now? It's one worth a second look.
Credit: Motortrend; (2025)