2026 Toyota bZ4X Gets Longer Range and Sharp Price Cuts

Author: |

Toyota has introduced sweeping changes to its bZ4X electric SUV, combining substantial price reductions with meaningful upgrades in technology, performance, and driving range. In one of the most aggressive pricing moves the brand has made in recent years, the bZ4X is now up to $10,010 cheaper than before, signaling a clear effort to strengthen its competitiveness in a rapidly evolving electric vehicle market.

Toyota bZ4X_1.jpg" alt="2026 Toyota bZ4X">

Following the update, the front-wheel-drive version of the bZ4X now carries a starting price of $55,990 before on-road costs. This positions it roughly $3,000 below the least expensive Tesla Model Y, around $2,000 less than a Zeekr 7X with rear-wheel drive, and about $1,000 higher than the BYD Sealion 7. Buyers opting for the all-wheel-drive variant gain additional features, stronger performance, and improved traction, with pricing set at $67,990 plus on-road costs. Even at this level, the AWD model undercuts its predecessor by $6,910, reinforcing the scale of Toyota’s pricing reset.

Such deep price cuts are unusual for Toyota, a brand that typically avoids sharp discounts to protect long-term resale values. However, these reductions are paired with additional standard equipment, enhancing the overall value proposition. The strategy appears aimed at revitalizing demand for Toyota’s first dedicated electric vehicle in Australia, where sales have remained modest. So far this year, only 858 bZ4X units have been delivered, a stark contrast to the Tesla Model Y, which managed around 2,700 sales in just one month. When the bZ4X debuted in 2024, its pricing closely mirrored that of the Model Y, but rapid shifts in EV pricing and competition have since reshaped the segment.

Toyota bZ4X

For the 2026 model year, Toyota has also refreshed the bZ4X’s styling. Updates include a redesigned front end with revised headlights and bumper, gloss black wheel arch cladding replacing the previous matte finish, and new 18-inch and 20-inch wheel designs. While the front-wheel-drive model no longer offers 20-inch wheels, it gains features that were previously exclusive to the AWD version. These include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, a heated steering wheel, hands-free operation for the power tailgate, a 360-degree camera system, NanoeX cabin air ionisation, a new driver monitoring system, and a driver’s knee airbag.

2026 bZ4X

The all-wheel-drive bZ4X also benefits from new additions, such as a power-adjustable front passenger seat and a digital rear-view mirror—features that were previously available only on the closely related Subaru Solterra. Another notable upgrade is radiant front cabin heating, which uses infrared panels to warm the front passenger’s lower body more efficiently.

Inside the cabin, all versions now feature a larger 14-inch touchscreen, complemented by a redesigned centre console that incorporates dual wireless smartphone charging pads. Mechanical improvements are equally significant. A new 74.7kWh battery replaces the outgoing 71.4kWh unit, working alongside more efficient motors and inverters. As a result, WLTP-rated range improves to 591km for the front-wheel-drive model and 517km for the AWD version. Power outputs rise to 165kW for the single-motor FWD variant and 252kW combined for the dual-motor AWD, which now supports towing loads of up to 1,500kg.

Charging capabilities have also been refined. While DC fast charging remains capped at 150kW, allowing a 10–80 percent recharge in approximately 30 minutes, improvements to thermal management are expected to enhance performance in colder conditions. AC charging sees a notable boost from 11kW to 22kW, enabling a full charge in as little as 3.5 hours using a suitable three-phase supply.

2026 Toyota bZ4X EV

To further entice buyers, Toyota is offering private customers a choice between a complimentary 7kW Chargefox home wallbox charger or one year (or 625kWh) of free public charging. Additional finance incentives are also available through Toyota Finance Australia, including deposit contributions of up to $7,500. The updated 2026 Toyota bZ4X is available to order now.

What do you think?