2026 Toyota bZ4X Touring: raised, rugged, more powerful EV added to NZ range

Toyota New Zealand has expanded its battery-electric lineup with the addition of the 2026 Toyota bZ4X Touring, a larger, more powerful, and more adventure-focused version of the brand’s sole EV.

Following the launch of the updated second-generation bZ4X, the new bZ4X Touring now sits as the flagship of the range, priced from $69,990 drive-away. By comparison, the entry-level bZ4X Pure starts from $56,990 drive-away.

Toyota says the Touring has been designed to bridge the gap for buyers wanting the practicality of a wagon, the capability of an SUV, and the benefits of a fully electric powertrain.

Compared with the regular bZ4X, the Touring is 140mm longer and 25mm taller, helping increase luggage capacity to 550 litres – up from 410 litres in the standard bZ4X Motion.

With a total length of 4,830mm, the bZ4X Touring is slightly longer and features more ground clearance than rivals like the Tesla Model Y, Kia EV5 and Hyundai Ioniq 5.

The bZ4X Touring uses the same 74.7kWh battery introduced with the updated bZ4X, though performance has been boosted thanks to larger electric motors.

Total system output rises from 252kW to 280kW, while charging capability includes up to 22kW AC charging and 150kW DC fast charging. Toyota claims a WLTP driving range of up to 488km and a towing capacity is rated at 1500kg braked and 750kg unbraked.

Toyota says updates to the battery heating and cooling system, including a new battery pre-conditioning function, will help deliver more consistent fast-charging performance.

The Touring also gains Toyota’s X-Mode and Grip Control systems, alongside a Multi-Terrain Monitor with under-vehicle view, designed to improve traction and stability on loose or slippery surfaces.

According to Toyota, the all-wheel drive system has been engineered to better handle gravel roads, ski-field access roads, and farm tracks.

Styling changes over the regular bZ4X include 20-inch black alloy wheels and black wheel-arch cladding to give the Touring a tougher appearance. ‘Brilliant Bronze’ paint is also exclusive to the Touring variant.

Inside, buyers can choose between black or khaki cabin trims, both featuring synthetic leather upholstery and a heated synthetic leather steering wheel.

The Touring comes standard with a 14.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with built-in satellite navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a nine-speaker JBL premium sound system.

Other standard equipment includes heated and ventilated front seats, roof rails, panoramic roof, digital rear-view monitor, dual wireless phone charges and a 1500W power inverter to use appliances on the move.

Toyota New Zealand chief strategic officer Andrew Davis said the new model gives buyers more flexibility without compromising lifestyle capability.

“The bZ4X Touring delivers the space and practicality many Kiwi families are looking for, with more luggage capacity and rugged design elements that genuinely support active lifestyles,” said Mr Davis.

“It’s a vehicle built for people who want to load up the bikes, boards, or camping gear and head away for the weekend.”