Toyota Unveils bZ Woodland: A Rugged Electric SUV for Outdoor Enthusiasts in 2026

Toyota has introduced the bZ Woodland, a new outdoor-focused electric SUV set to join its bZ lineup in the U.S. by early 2026. Designed for adventure seekers, this larger sibling to the bZ EV combines rugged capability with electric efficiency, offering features like a 260-mile range and a 3,500-pound towing capacity.

A Bigger, Bolder bZ for the Outdoors

The bZ Woodland stretches 6 inches longer than the standard bZ EV, with a 74.7 kWh battery pack providing up to 260 miles of range. Toyota has also increased ground clearance by 8.3 inches, making it better suited for off-road trails. Unlike its sibling, the bZ Woodland skips self-driving features but prioritizes practicality with a 150 kW peak charging speed and a native NACS charging port for seamless compatibility with Tesla’s Supercharger network. Deliveries are slated to begin in early 2026, targeting EV owners who crave outdoor versatility.

Key Features for Adventure and Convenience

The bZ Woodland is built to handle the demands of outdoor life. It offers a 3,500-pound towing capacity, ideal for hauling small trailers or boats. Inside the trunk, dual wireless Qi charging pads and 1500W AC power outlets provide ample power for camping gear or tools. Ventilated front seats add comfort during long drives, whether on highways or backroads. These features position the bZ Woodland as a direct competitor to rugged EVs like the Rivian R1S, though at a potentially more accessible price point.

Technical Specifications and Performance

Here’s a breakdown of the bZ Woodland’s key specs:

• Range: Up to 260 miles
• Battery Capacity: 74.7 kWh
• Ground Clearance: 8.3 inches
• Peak Charging Speed: 150 kW
• Towing Capacity: 3,500 pounds
• Power Outlets: 1500W AC in the trunk
• Charging Port: Native NACS

The 74.7 kWh battery aligns with industry standards for mid-range EVs, offering a balance between range and cost. The 150 kW charging speed, while not the fastest in the market, allows for a 20-80% charge in roughly 30 minutes under optimal conditions, making it practical for road trips.

Toyota’s EV Strategy and Industry Trends

Toyota’s bZ Woodland reflects the company’s broader push into the electric vehicle market, which has been slower compared to competitors like Tesla and Ford. The bZ series, including the bZ4X already on the market, targets practical, family-oriented buyers. However, the Woodland’s focus on outdoor capability taps into a growing trend among EV manufacturers to cater to lifestyle-driven consumers. Rivian and Ford, with models like the F-150 Lightning, have also leaned into this space, blending utility with electric efficiency.

The inclusion of a native NACS port signals Toyota’s alignment with the industry’s shift toward standardized charging infrastructure in the U.S., a move that simplifies access to fast-charging networks. This could boost adoption among buyers hesitant about charging availability, especially for off-road adventures where charging stations are sparse.

What This Means for EV Owners

For EV enthusiasts and outdoor lovers, the bZ Woodland offers a compelling option. Its towing capacity and power outlets make it a strong choice for camping or overlanding, while the increased ground clearance ensures it can handle rough terrain. However, the lack of self-driving features might disappoint tech-focused buyers, especially as competitors like Tesla continue to push autonomy. With deliveries starting in 2026, the bZ Woodland could carve out a niche for Toyota in the growing rugged EV segment, appealing to those who want an electric SUV that doesn’t compromise on adventure.

Toyota has yet to announce pricing, but if positioned competitively, the bZ Woodland could challenge established players in the outdoor EV market. As the industry evolves, Toyota’s focus on practicality and versatility might just win over a new wave of electric adventurers.

Photos courtesy of Toyota