Toyota’s new bZ2026 electric SUV tops US sales, beating Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ford Mustang Mach‑E. Find out why it’s winning – read more now.
Toyota’s latest electric SUV, the bZ2026, is shaking up the U.S. market. In January, the model slipped past both the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the Ford Mustang Mach‑E to become the fourth‑best‑selling EV in the United States, moving 2,769 units.
Sales performance in January
While Tesla’s Model Y and Model 3 continue to dominate the top spots, the bZ2026’s strong start is noteworthy:
- 4th place overall among electric SUVs in the U.S.
- 2,769 units sold in January
- Outperformed Hyundai Ioniq 5 (2,126 units) and Ford Mustang Mach‑E (1,040 units)
- Surpassed Kia EV9 (674), Honda Prologue (664) and Ford F‑150 Lightning (647)
Figures from General Motors are still pending, but Chevrolet’s Equinox EV is expected to rank third.
What’s new under the hood?
The bZ2026 is more than a facelift; it represents a sizable leap over its predecessor, the bZ4X.
- Range increased to 505 km (about 25% more than the bZ4X)
- Fast‑charging capability via integrated NACS port compatible with Tesla Superchargers
- Charging 10%‑80% in roughly 30 minutes under optimal conditions
- Larger battery pack with active thermal management for cold‑weather performance
- Power output: 338 hp on all‑wheel‑drive models (up 50% vs. bZ4X); 221 hp on front‑wheel‑drive versions
Interior and tech upgrades
The cabin follows Toyota’s new design language, featuring:
- 14‑inch Toyota Audio touchscreen (larger than previous generation)
- Dual wireless phone chargers
- Redesigned instrument cluster with a 7‑inch driver‑information display
- Heated front and rear seats
- Standard regenerative braking and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite
- Optional panoramic roof with powered sunshade (XLE trim)
- Premium JBL 9‑speaker audio system on the Limited trim
Pricing and incentives
With a starting MSRP of $34,900, the bZ2026 is one of the most affordable EVs in the U.S. market. Toyota adds a $5,000 dealer incentive, effectively lowering the base price below $30,000 for many customers.
Global footprint
The model is not only thriving in the United States. It was the best‑selling domestic EV in Japan for Q3 2025, overtaking Honda for the first time, and set a sales record in Canada in January with a 579 % year‑over‑year increase.
Looking ahead
Upcoming releases like the C‑HR electric SUV and the bZ Woodland 2026 will broaden Toyota’s EV lineup, helping the automaker regain momentum as rivals such as Ford, GM, and Stellantis accelerate their own electric programs.
With its blend of range, performance, tech, and price, the Toyota bZ2026 appears poised to continue its upward trajectory in an increasingly competitive electric‑vehicle market.