2025 Toyota bZ4X vs 2026 Toyota bZ4X (Facelift): What to Expect

The Toyota bZ4X entered the 2025 model year in the U.S. early this year with a lower starting price, a new Nightshade Edition, and additional driver assistance features. Offered in XLE, Limited, and Nightshade trims, it delivers up to 252 miles of EPA-estimated range on the FWD XLE variant.

Power output remains at 201 hp for FWD models and 214 hp for AWD models. Priced between $37,070 and $41,800 (base MSRP), it is positioned more accessibly compared to MY2024.

Meanwhile, in March 2025, Toyota announced a major update for the bZ4X in Europe, which is coming to the Old Continent this summer. Some changes from the EU-spec model are expected to reflect in the U.S. market as the 2026 model. The facelifted bZ4X brings enhanced performance, more charging options, a revised dashboard, and styling changes.

We recently got to check out the 2025 Toyota bZ4X Nightshade Edition (pictured in this story) finished in the Windchill Pearl with Black roof, and here’s how it stacks up with the facelifted European model.

Batteries & Range

The 2025 U.S. bZ4X carries a single battery option, offering around 222-252 miles of range depending on configuration. By contrast, the updated European model introduces a choice between two batteries: a 57.7 kWh unit for the FWD model, and a 73.1 kWh pack available on both FWD and AWD variants. WLTP range estimates reach up to 573 km (356 miles). If the bigger battery makes it stateside, the 2026 U.S. model could see up to a 12% gain, reaching 282 miles (EPA-est.).

More Powerful Motor

Today’s U.S. model produces 201 hp (FWD) or 214 hp (AWD). The facelifted European bZ4X upgrades its eAxles and introduces silicon carbide semiconductors. As a result, the 73.1 kWh AWD variant now delivers 343 hp (252 kW), a significant jump. If adopted for the U.S. 2026 model, expect a major performance improvement, particularly for AWD variants.

Faster Charging

The 2025 bZ4X includes a standard dual-voltage Level 1/Level 2 cable and can fast charge at up to 150 kW DC in the U.S. The European facelift model, while retaining the 150 kW charging, adds a new 22 kW onboard AC charger on higher trims, alongside a battery pre-conditioning function that optimizes DC fast charging times. If the 2026 U.S. model inherits the 22 kW charger and pre-conditioning features, it would close the gap with newer competitors.

Interior & Infotainment

Inside, the 2025 U.S. bZ4X features the familiar 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, and available JBL premium audio. The European facelift brings a redesigned center console, a new instrument panel, and a standard 14-inch screen. We expect the 2026 U.S. version to adopt this updated layout, offering a cleaner interface and larger display as standard.

Styling Changes

For the U.S., the 2025 bZ4X carries forward its original design with minor trim-specific updates, such as black badges, door handles, and spoiler on the Nightshade Edition. The European facelift refines the exterior with a sleeker front-end consisting of new DRLs, headlamps, upper nose, overfenders, and aerodynamic improvements. While not revolutionary, the 2026 U.S. bZ4X should feature a cleaner and slightly more upscale look in line with Toyota’s latest design language.

Chassis Enhancements

Toyota says that the European model benefits from improved ride comfort, noise reduction, and increased towing capacity (up to 1,500 kg) for AWD variants. Until now, Toyota has not recommended towing with the bZ4X in the U.S. Hence, besides towing, these upgrades could be part of the 2026 U.S. model as well, enhancing everyday usability.

Summing up, the 2025 Toyota bZ4X offers a more attractive value proposition, but the facelift announced for Europe registers key improvements in range, performance, charging, comfort, and technology, which would greatly improve the electric crossover’s appeal in the U.S.

Facelifted bZ4X images sourced from Toyota