Toyota Expands 2026 EV Lineup With Refreshed bZ SUV

Toyota expanded its 2026 electric vehicle lineup, headlined by the refreshed and renamed bZ midsize SUV. The bZ XLE Plus starts at $37,900 and provides an EPA-estimated range of 314 miles. While the vehicle received praise for passenger comfort, efficiency, and road noise reduction, critics noted an overactive driver-attention monitor and inconsistent S-Flow climate control.

This launch is part of a broader strategic push to increase EV offerings. The current lineup now includes the bZ Woodland wagon and the C-HR subcompact SUV, with a fully electric Highlander scheduled for release next year. Simultaneously, Lexus updated the RZ and introduced the ES electric sedan.

These expansions contributed to an 89% increase in bZ sales this year. K.C. Boyce, vice president of automotive and energy research at Escalent, stated that Toyota is "full steam ahead" regarding EVs. This aggressive positioning contrasts with rivals like Honda, which have retreated from all-electric options.