The 2026 Toyota bZ Woodland introduces 375 horsepower from dual electric motors and up to 281 miles of EPA-estimated range in a rugged all-wheel-drive SUV designed for trails and daily driving. This variant of the updated bZ (formerly bZ4X) adds off-road features like 8.3 inches of ground clearance and X-MODE with Grip Control, making it Toyota's most powerful battery-electric vehicle yet. Outdoor enthusiasts gain a practical EV that tows 3,500 pounds without sacrificing commute-friendly range.
Background
Toyota’s bZ series represents its push into battery-electric vehicles under the ‘beyond Zero’ branding. The bZ4X launched in 2022 but faced early challenges, including a battery recall; for 2026, Toyota simplified the name to bZ and introduced significant updates, including a larger 74.7 kWh battery option and the new Woodland trim. The bZ Woodland builds on this with rugged styling—black overfenders, roof rails, and 18-inch wheels—positioning it agaadventure-oriented EVs in the midsize segmentgment.
Toyota maintains its market leadership in hybrids but trails in pure EVs. The bZ lineup, now including Woodland, aims to capture buyers seeking reliable all-weather capability. Arrivals at U.S. dealers are imminent, with Canadian deliveries starting next month.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | Dual permanent-magnet motors, 375 hp combined, AWD standard |
| Battery | 74.7 kWh lithium-ion (67 kWh usable est.) |
| Range (EPA est.) | 281 miles (all-season tires); 260 miles (all-terrain tires) |
| 0-60 mph | 4,4 secondes (Toyota est.); 4,2 secondes (C/D est.) |
| Ground Clearance | 8.3 inches |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs |
| Charging | 11 kW onboard AC; 150 kW DC max; NACS port |
| Dimensions | 190.2 in L x 73.2 in W x 65.9 in H; 112.2 in wheelbase |
| Cargo Volume | 72-74 cu ft max (U.S.); 2,120 L max (Canada) |
| Seating | 5 passengers, SofTex seats |
| Price | $46,750 base; $48,850 Premium |
Power and Performance
The bZ Woodland’s dual motors—one front (224 hp), one rear (224 hp)—deliver 375 hp and instant torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds per Toyota, with Car and Driver estimating 4.2 seconds. This outperforms the standard bZ’s 338 hp by 37 hp, thanks to the larger battery skipping the base 52 kWh pack. Real-world tests confirm strong acceleration that engages traction control off-road.
Standard AWD includes X-MODE with Grip Control for low-speed terrain management, optimizing brake and power distribution. Paired with 8.3-inch clearance and optional Dunlop Grandtrek AT30 all-terrain tires, it handles light off-roading effectively, though range drops to 260 miles with AT tires.
Range, Charging, and Practicality
EPA estimates 281 miles on all-season tires from the 74.7 kWh pack, sufficient for most commutes but not class-leading. The NACS port enables Tesla Supercharger access, a key advantage, alongside 11 kW Level 2 AC charging. Towing 3,500 lbs expands utility for trailers or gear.
Interior space suits families: 54 cu ft front passenger volume, 41-42 cu ft rear, and up to 74 cu ft cargo. Features include a 14-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (lane tracing, blind-spot monitoring, parking assist), heated seats, dual-zone climate, and optional JBL audio.
Off-Road and Design Enhancements
Rugged elements include roof rails, power-folding mirrors, and a hammerhead front with an extended rear for added cargo (2,120 L flat in Canada vs. 1,900 L standard bZ). The Premium trim adds ambient lighting and more. At 4,500 lbs curb weight, it’s heavier than the base bZ, impacting efficiency slightly.
Comparison
Versus Rivian R2 (expected 300+ miles, ~400 hp, $45k base): Woodland offers similar power and price but less range and prestige; Rivian’s air suspension edges off-road prowess. Hyundai Ioniq 5 N (601 hp, 221 miles) prioritizes performance over utility. Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally (480 hp, 280 miles) matches range but lacks Woodland’s ground clearance and towing. Toyota’s reliability and dealer network give it an edge for practical buyers.
Verdict
The 2026 bZ Woodland succeeds as Toyota’s capable electric off-roader, blending 375 hp punch, 281-mile range, and trail features at $46,750—ideal for suburban adventurers needing AWD, towing, and Supercharger access without extremes. It won’t redefine EV off-roading like pricier rivals, and range lags leaders; unanswered questions include real-world efficiency and long-term battery durability. Best for Toyota loyalists prioritizing versatility over maximum range.
