Electric Cars

Toyota is expanding its electric vehicle lineup with the introduction of the 2026 bZ Woodland, a model designed to offer increased space and enhanced performance compared to its existing electric SUV. This new iteration boasts a more extended, wagon-like body style, paired with a more robust powertrain. The vehicle's exterior showcases a rugged aesthetic, featuring a more pronounced front bumper and distinctive black plastic cladding around the wheel arches, signaling its readiness for diverse terrains.

Beyond its aesthetic and dimensional upgrades, the bZ Woodland also brings significant improvements in power and range. Equipped with a dual-motor system, it delivers a substantial 375 horsepower, a notable increase over the standard bZ model. Drivers can expect an estimated range of 281 miles, which adjusts to 260 miles when fitted with all-terrain tires, highlighting its versatility for both urban and more adventurous journeys.

Design and Dimensional Enhancements of the bZ Woodland

The 2026 Toyota bZ Woodland distinguishes itself from its standard counterpart through a series of thoughtful design and dimensional modifications. While retaining the same wheelbase as the original bZ, the Woodland variant stretches an additional 5.6 inches in overall length, providing a more spacious interior and a more commanding presence on the road. This elongated profile contributes to its wagon-like appearance, offering both functional benefits and a unique aesthetic.

Visually, the bZ Woodland adopts a more rugged and adventurous stance. Its front fascia incorporates a more substantial and aggressive bumper, complemented by durable black plastic cladding that encircles the wheel wells. The rear design undergoes a complete transformation, featuring a straighter and extended roofline that flows into a distinctive full-width taillight assembly. A larger, off-road-inspired rear bumper further accentuates its robust character, preparing it for diverse driving conditions while maintaining a sophisticated electric vehicle identity.

Performance and Range Capabilities of the New Electric SUV

Underneath its redesigned exterior, the 2026 Toyota bZ Woodland delivers a significant upgrade in performance. Powered by an advanced dual-motor system, the vehicle generates an impressive 375 horsepower, surpassing the standard bZ model by 37 horsepower. This enhanced power output ensures a more dynamic and responsive driving experience, whether navigating city streets or exploring more challenging landscapes.

In terms of electric range, the bZ Woodland is designed for practicality and efficiency. Toyota estimates a 281-mile driving range on a single charge, utilizing a 67 kWh battery with a usable capacity comparable to the all-wheel-drive bZ. For those seeking greater off-road capability, opting for all-terrain tires will adjust the estimated range to 260 miles. This balance of power and endurance makes the bZ Woodland a compelling choice for consumers looking for a versatile and capable electric SUV.

In an automotive landscape where vehicle classifications are increasingly fluid, the 2026 Toyota bZ Woodland emerges as a compelling electric family car that defies conventional categories. While many two-box vehicles are often labeled as SUVs, the bZ Woodland, with its station wagon-like silhouette enhanced by increased ground clearance and rugged wheel arch cladding, offers a unique blend of practicality and adventure. Our experience driving the bZ Woodland through Ojai, California, highlighted its balanced performance as a versatile electric vehicle, boasting a powerful 375-horsepower drivetrain and a generously sized cabin, all while delivering a smooth ride and unexpected off-road prowess.

The bZ Woodland shares its foundation with the more compact bZ SUV, an evolution of the 2023 bZ4X, featuring similar front-end aesthetics including Toyota's signature LED "hammerhead" daytime running lights. However, the Woodland variant distinguishes itself with a longer body, an additional 5.6 inches in length, culminating in a more vertical D-pillar, a distinct full-width taillight design, and a more robust rear bumper. Underneath its updated exterior, the Woodland is exclusively equipped with a dual-motor setup, providing an impressive 375 horsepower—a significant boost of 37 hp over its conventional bZ counterpart. This powerful all-wheel-drive system is fueled by a 67-kWh battery, offering an estimated range of 281 miles, or 260 miles when fitted with the optional Dunlop Grandtrek AT30 all-terrain tires. The vehicle supports charging via a NACS port, allowing access to Tesla Superchargers, and features a 150 kW DC fast-charging capability, taking approximately 30 minutes for a 10 to 80 percent refill, alongside an 11.0-kW onboard charger for Level 2 charging.

Behind the wheel, the bZ Woodland's enhanced power is immediately apparent, delivering swift acceleration and confident overtaking. Toyota claims a 0 to 60 mph time of 4.4 seconds, nearly two seconds faster than the all-wheel-drive bZ4X. Despite its light and somewhat numb steering, the vehicle is easy to maneuver, and its softer suspension setup contributes to a comfortable ride, even if noticeable body roll occurs during spirited cornering. The bZ Woodland also demonstrated remarkable capability during an off-road test, easily navigating steep trails and challenging obstacles thanks to its 8.4 inches of ground clearance and ample torque from its electric motors, guided by the X-Mode system. The interior mirrors the standard bZ, offering a 14-inch touchscreen, a digital gauge cluster, and physical controls for essential functions. It comes extensively equipped with features like dual wireless charging pads, heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone automatic climate control, with a Premium trim adding ventilated front seats, a panoramic glass roof, and a JBL sound system. The extended length also translates to increased cargo space, offering 34 cubic feet behind the second row and a massive 74 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, addressing a common family need. Starting at $46,750, the bZ Woodland presents a strong alternative to other mid-size electric SUVs, offering a powerful, comfortable, and highly practical option for families ready to embrace electric mobility, regardless of how it's categorized.

The 2026 Toyota bZ Woodland exemplifies how innovation can blend different automotive forms to create something truly versatile and appealing. It reminds us that progress isn't just about speed or efficiency, but also about creating solutions that cater to diverse lifestyles and needs, fostering a future where sustainable transportation is both practical and exhilarating.