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Refreshed 2026 Toyota bZ Debuts As Ford Mustang Mach-E Rival

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The all-electric Toyota bZ4X debuted back in 2021 as just the latest of several rivals in a heated space that also includes the Ford Mustang Mach-E. However, aside from being rather unique in terms of the way it looks, the bZ4X also drew a bit of criticism for its strange name, which doesn’t really make any sort of sense to most, nor does it follow Toyota’s traditional vehicle naming strategy. As such, that same EV crossover was rumored to be in line for a name change as part of its upcoming mid-cycle refresh, and that’s precisely what has happened with the newly-revealed 2026 Toyota bZ, as it’s now known.

The 2026 Toyota bZ has received more updates than just a simple name change, starting with exterior styling tweaks to the front fascia and slim LED daytime running lights, along with newly-available color-matched overfenders. Inside, the cabin, the bZ has received a revamped console design with two wireless chargers, a slimmer dash, a larger 14-inch center infotainment screen, soft touch materials, and customizable ambient lighting.

Mechanically speaking, the 2026 Toyota bZ now comes equipped with a larger 74.7 kWh battery pack that will reportedly increase range to as much as 314 miles, and it will be offered in the XLE Front-Wheel-Drive Plus, XLE All-Wheel-Drive, and Limited (FWD/AWD) trims – though a smaller 57.7 kWh battery will also be available in the XLE FWD model. All 2026 Toyota bZ crossovers will come with a North American Charging System (NACS) charge port, and it’s capable of DC fast charging from 10-80 percent in around 30 minutes. Additionally, owners will be able to make use of Plus & Charge capability, making it easier to utilize all sorts of charging stations.

In terms of output, 2026 Toyota bZ models get upgraded e-axles that utilize silicon carbide (SIC) semiconductors, delivering 221 horsepower in FWD guise, compared to 201 in prior versions. Meanwhile, AWD variants get a 50 percent boost to 338 horsepower – enabling them to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds. The 2026 Toyota bZ is expected to start arriving at dealers in the second half of 2025, but pricing won’t be announced until we get closer to its on-sale date.

Brett's lost track of all the Fords he's owned over the years and how much he's spent modifying them, but his current money pits include an S550 Mustang and 13th gen F-150.

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Brett Foote

Brett's lost track of all the Fords he's owned over the years and how much he's spent modifying them, but his current money pits include an S550 Mustang and 13th gen F-150.

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