Toyota expands electric SUV line-up with new bZ4X Touring and major bZ4X upgrades

2026 Toyota bZ4X Touring (overseas model shown).

• Toyota expands its electric SUV line-up with the new bZ4X Touring
  • Designed for Kiwi families, adventure-seekers and business users, combining space, versatility, and zero-emission performance
  • Extended dimensions deliver more cargo capacity for active lifestyles and functionality
• Upgraded bZ4X brings major improvements in range, power, and charging
  • Equipped with a larger 74.7kWh battery and significantly increased total system output
  • Sleeker exterior styling with Toyota’s signature Hammerhead design for a more unified look
• Both models scheduled for New Zealand launch in Autumn this year
  • Offering electric capability without compromise, tailored for local driving needs 

Toyota New Zealand is bringing two welcomed additions to their line up in a segment where customers are seeking more electric vehicles to cater to an active lifestyle – the new bZ4X Touring and a significantly upgraded bZ4X. These new models represent a bold step forward in Toyota’s electrification journey, offering Kiwi drivers more choice, greater versatility, and enhanced performance without compromise.

The arrival of the bZ4X Touring marks a new chapter for families, adventure-seekers and business owners alike who want the benefits of a fully electric vehicle without sacrificing space or capability. Designed with New Zealand lifestyles in mind, the Touring combines rugged practicality with refined design, delivering the kind of flexibility that makes it perfect for everything from school runs to ski trips.

Alongside the Touring, Toyota has re-engineered its first battery-electric SUV, the bZ4X, to deliver a longer range and more power[1]. During internal evaluation drives, the Toyota New Zealand Product Planning team have achieved more than 100km additional range when compared with the previous generation. These improvements underscore Toyota’s commitment to continuous innovation and its kaizen philosophy of making every model better than the last.

Both the bZ4X and bZ4X Touring share the well-defined DNA of Toyota SUV models: true AWD-capability, SUV body types and the brand’s renowned quality, durability and reliability.

The bZ4X Touring: space and versatility for active lives

Go further and tread lighter with the bZ4X Touring - an electric SUV designed for exploration and a greener drive. It offers generous space and versatility, rapid charging, and a driving range that can take you on an adventure without compromise. The AWD capability is built for weekend explorers - whether you’re carving your way up a snowy mountain or strapping a surfboard to the roof and chasing the perfect break at your favourite remote beach.

The bZ4X Touring is a seamless extension of the established bZ4X SUV body style, but with dimensions that make a real difference. At 140mm longer and 20mm taller, it offers a substantial increase in cargo space. The extra room means families can pack more for weekends away, while the flexible 40:60 split rear seat makes it easy to adapt for larger loads. This configuration also offers a highly practical solution for business users seeking modern, sustainable mobility options.

Toyota has maximised the space-saving potential of its BEV powertrain, ensuring compact components and clever layout choices that avoid intrusion into the cabin or boot. Rugged design details, including black resin wheel arches and bridge type roof rails capable of carrying up to 75 kilograms, reinforce the Touring’s adventurous character.

Inside, the bZ4X Touring cabin is designed for comfort and convenience on every journey. A sleek new centre console makes it easy to use digital devices, complemented by a modern instrument panel and a 14-inch multimedia screen as standard. The option of a khaki upholstery adds a natural, outdoors-inspired touch - perfect for an SUV that’s ready for adventure while embracing a greener future.

Toyota New Zealand Chief Strategic Officer, Andrew Davis, says the bZ4X Touring is ideal for the New Zealand market where AWD wagons and SUVs have proved so popular over the years.

“Kiwi families love a spacious SUV that fits the kids, the dog, the sports gear – and everything else for a skiing weekend or summer holiday. With more boot space than the bZ4X and an impressive battery range, the bZ4X Touring is built for the New Zealand family lifestyle,” he says.

Upgrades that redefine the bZ4X

In short, the new generation bZ4X has more power, more range, more towing and new styling. It introduces a high-capacity 74.7kWh battery, boosting range up to 591 kilometres for the Pure grade and 517 kilometres for the Motion grade tested under WLTP standards*[2].

For EV drivers who enjoy the instant and linear torque of electric motors, the new bZ4X will not fail to impress with its quick off-the-line speed. The Pure grade now delivers 167kW, while the Motion grade jumps to 255kW – up from 160kW in the previous model.

Toyota New Zealand Chief Executive Tatsuya Ishikawa, who prior to arriving in New Zealand worked on the development of the bZ4X, says the upgrade is a substantial leap for the car.

“These upgrades to the bZ4X deliver valuable improvements for our customers, along with an increase in power and range, which is sure to put a smile on the driver’s face. We are delighted to now offer the bZ4X with a much-extended range and increased motor power. We have been fortunate to have a pre-production unit here to undertake local testing and our Product team have seen a vast improvement in range[3],” he says.

While the most significant upgrade to the latest bZ4X is its revised eAxles and new higher-capacity battery - delivering greater range and peace of mind, Toyota has also introduced a series of refinements that elevate the overall driving experience. Enhancements focus on passenger comfort and energy efficiency, ensuring every journey is as smooth as it is sustainable. Both the exterior and interior have been improved with sleeker, more cohesive design elements, giving the bZ4X a modern, premium look that matches its advanced electric performance.

While the Touring is predominantly tailored for families and adventure seekers, it also offers practicality for small business operators who need a capable and comfortable vehicle for work and weekend use. Meanwhile, the bZ4X remains a versatile solution for both fleet and commercial customers looking to decarbonise their operations, as well as private buyers wanting a stylish, zero emissions SUV. With the choice of front wheel drive or a more capable AWD variant, it delivers efficiency without compromising capability - making it ideal for business fleets, urban mobility, and everyday driving.

Design and technology enhancements

Both models showcase Toyota’s signature Hammerhead front design, now refined for a sleeker, more unified look. Gloss black fenders (for the bZ4X) and bold wheel designs add a premium edge, while the overall styling delivers a confident, modern presence on the road.

Inside, the cabin has been completely reimagined to feel more contemporary and upscale. At the heart of the interior is a 14-inch multimedia display, providing intuitive access to navigation, entertainment, and BEV-specific features. Practicality hasn’t been overlooked - drivers will appreciate the 1500-watt power-outlet in the cargo area, perfect for powering everything from a portable fridge to a laptop on weekend adventures.

Striking new wheel finishes complement the crisp lines and vibrant paintwork. The Pure grade features 18-inch alloys with a black and grey metallic aero cover, while the Motion grade steps up with 20-inch black and machine-finished alloys and a black metallic aero cover for added sophistication.

Colour choices have also been refreshed. Deep Sea Blue and Eclipse join the palette for both Pure and Motion grades, and the Motion offers an eye-catching two-tone option that pairs an Eclipse black roof with shades such as Frosted White, Precious Metal, Emotional Red, or Deep Sea Blue.

Electric without compromise

Toyota New Zealand Chief Executive Tatsuya Ishikawa says these upgrades reflect Toyota’s commitment to continuous improvement.

“We’re excited to bring the upgraded bZ4X and bZ4X Touring to New Zealand. This is electric without compromise and true to Toyota’s famous attention to quality and reliability. The new generation all-electric SUVs deliver refined style, advanced electric technology and spacious, comfortable interiors. They are designed for drivers who want full electric capability with no trade-offs,” he says.

A bonus of the upgraded battery and power output is the increased towing capability, giving local drivers a braked tow rating of 1,500kg on the more powerful AWD Motion grade, up from 750kg in the previous model, allowing them to safely handle small to mid-size trailers, lightweight caravans, jet skis and small boats for everyday hauling and weekend adventures. The Motion also benefits from a Multi Terrain Monitor.

The bZ4X Touring and new generation bZ4X are scheduled for introduction in New Zealand in Autumn of this year.  

2026 bZ4X and bZ4X Touring Grades and Pricing

Model and Price
bZ4X Pure: $56,990
bZ4X Motion: $66,990
bZ4X Touring: $69,990

Footnote:

* You should not expect that the exact driving range figures will be achieved in real world driving conditions. Driving range is based on tests under controlled conditions and is provided for comparison purposes. Actual results will vary depending on factors such as vehicle usage and operating conditions such as weather, vehicle loading, towing, road type, elevation changes, and driving style for example.

[1] When compared to previous generation bZ4X models.

[2] WLTP stands for Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure. It’s a lab-based test that sets the global standard for measuring: Fuel consumption, CO₂ emissions, Pollutant emissions, Driving range for electric vehicles (EVs). It’s a standard that helps you compare electric vehicles fairly and get a better sense of their fuel economy and EV range. Actual results will vary depending on factors such as vehicle usage and operating conditions. You should not expect that the exact fuel/energy consumption, emission and driving range figures will be achieved in real world driving conditions. To provide you the latest model information, the specification listed is on a provisional basis and therefore may be subject to change. Please contact your local Toyota Store for more information.

[3] When compared to previous generation bZ4X models.