2026 Toyota bZ Woodland Review: Big, Quick… But Missing Key EV Features
I recently drove the all-new Toyota bZ Woodland, one of three new electric vehicles Toyota is launching in the U.S. this year. It’s powerful, spacious, and even a bit off-road capable.
But for a 2026 EV, it surprisingly lacks some features that many buyers now consider essential.
(Full disclosure: Toyota covered travel and lodging for this test drive in Southern California.)
Toyota Is Expanding Its EV Lineup
For years, Toyota focused heavily on hybrid vehicles while competitors accelerated into full battery-electric models. Critics often called the company slow in the EV race.
Now that’s changing. In 2026, Toyota is bringing three new EVs to the U.S. market:
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Toyota C-HR (compact crossover)
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Toyota Highlander EV
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Toyota bZ Woodland (rugged electric wagon/SUV hybrid design)
The bZ Woodland is clearly aimed at buyers who want something practical, outdoorsy, and different from the usual electric crossover.
What the bZ Woodland Gets Right
✅ Strong Performance
The bZ Woodland feels quick and confident. Instant electric torque makes highway merging easy, and it doesn’t feel underpowered despite its larger size.
✅ Spacious Interior
This is a roomy EV. There’s generous cargo space and comfortable seating, making it suitable for families or road trips.
✅ Light Off-Road Capability
With higher ground clearance and rugged styling, the Woodland version targets drivers who enjoy outdoor adventures. It’s not a hardcore rock crawler, but it handles rough terrain better than many urban-focused EVs.
✅ More EV Choices
The biggest win? More variety in the EV market. Buyers now have another alternative beyond Tesla and Hyundai.
Where It Falls Short
For a modern EV in 2026, some missing or limited features stand out:
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Charging speeds that may not lead the class
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Software experience that doesn’t feel cutting-edge
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Certain premium tech features are expected in this price range
In today’s EV world, fast charging, advanced driver assistance, and seamless infotainment systems are no longer luxury extras — they’re expected.
That’s where the bZ Woodland feels slightly behind competitors.
Final Verdict
The 2026 Toyota bZ Woodland is big, quick, and practical. It delivers solid performance and expands Toyota’s growing EV lineup.
However, in a rapidly evolving electric market, being “good enough” may not be enough. Buyers now expect top-tier charging speeds, advanced tech, and a polished digital experience.
Toyota is clearly stepping forward in the EV space — but the bZ Woodland shows there’s still room to catch up.
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