Toyota’s electric lineup continues to evolve, and not every model is chasing the same objective.
The 2026 Toyota bZ Woodland enters the portfolio as the most powerful and most rugged version of the bZ platform. It does not lead the lineup in maximum range. Instead, it leans into all-wheel-drive confidence, moderate off-pavement capability, and a more adventurous aesthetic.
During the first-drive program in Ojai, California, Toyota sent us up into the mountains toward Paul Walker’s 3,000-acre ranch. Loose sand. Uneven dirt roads. Moderate articulation. Not extreme off-roading, but exactly the type of terrain families encounter when heading to a campsite or cabin.
That setting clarified what the Woodland is engineered to be.
Design and Presence
The bZ Woodland immediately sets itself apart from the standard bZ through its proportions and stance.
It grows in length and carries additional ride height, giving it a more planted and purposeful appearance. Ground clearance measures 8.4 inches, which makes a real difference when the pavement ends.
Black roof rails, matte black wheel arch moldings, and 18-inch wheels with black covers give it a tougher identity. The optional 235/65R18 all-terrain tires complete the look.
Without the all-terrain tires, the Woodland looks restrained. With them, the black fenders make visual sense, and the stance feels intentional.
This is not simply a trim package. Toyota physically adjusted the vehicle to support a different mission.
Powertrain and Performance
The Woodland is now the most powerful bZ variant.
It produces 375 horsepower from a dual-motor all-wheel drive system. Toyota estimates 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.4 seconds.
Power comes from a 74.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.
The EPA estimated range is 281 miles in standard form and 260 miles when equipped with the optional all-terrain tires.
That number will immediately stand out to EV shoppers who view 300 miles as a psychological benchmark. Toyota’s position is clear. If maximum range is the sole focus, the standard bZ remains the efficiency leader. The Woodland prioritizes capability and performance.
The tradeoff is deliberate.
Driving Impressions and Off Pavement Performance
Climbing the dirt access roads in Ojai revealed the Woodland’s real character.
The dual-motor system delivers smooth, predictable torque. The battery placement under the floor lowers the center of gravity, which improves stability on uneven terrain.
X Mode with Grip Control operates at low speeds to optimize traction and torque distribution.
Articulation is moderate. This is not a rock crawler. It does not pretend to be.
However, for realistic use cases, it performs confidently:
• Camp access roads
• Gravel driveways
• Light trailheads
• Snow-covered cabin routes
The vehicle remained composed without drama. The all-terrain tires provided noticeable grip in loose sand while remaining comfortable on pavement.
For a family driving to a Girl Scouts or Boy Scouts camping weekend, the Woodland should perform more than adequately.
Ride and Everyday Comfort
On paved roads, the Woodland maintains a composed, controlled ride. The suspension tuning balances comfort with the added ride height.
The all-terrain tires do not introduce excessive road noise. Steering feel is predictable and weighted appropriately for daily driving.
This is not an aggressive performance setup. It is a practical one.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the Woodland reflects Toyota’s focus on durability and functionality.
Standard features include a 14-inch touchscreen, heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, dual wireless charging pads, and SofTex-trimmed seating.
Cargo space expands significantly with the rear seats folded, reinforcing its family utility positioning.
The Premium grade adds JBL audio, ventilated front seats, a panoramic fixed-glass roof, radiant foot heaters, and additional comfort enhancements.
Materials are practical rather than luxurious, but they appear durable and aligned with long-term ownership expectations.
Charging and Ownership Practicality
The Woodland features compatibility with the North American Charging System, improving access to public fast-charging networks.
It supports DC fast charging and can replenish from 10 percent to 80 percent in approximately 30 minutes under ideal conditions.
Expanded charging access improves real-world usability, particularly for families considering an EV as a primary vehicle.
2026 Toyota bZ Woodland Buyer’s Guide by Trim Level
The 2026 Toyota bZ Woodland is offered in two trims: Woodland AWD and Woodland Premium AWD.
Both trims share:
• 375 horsepower dual-motor AWD
• 74.7 kWh battery
• 281-mile EPA range
• 260-mile EPA range with all-terrain tires
• 8.4 inches of ground clearance
• 3,500-pound towing capacity
bZ Woodland AWD
Starting MSRP: $45,300 (excluding dealer fees)
Who This Is For
Buyers who want the full capability package without stepping into premium comfort pricing:
• Standout Features
• Standard AWD
• 14-inch touchscreen
• Heated front and rear seats
• Heated steering wheel
• Dual wireless charging
• Panoramic View Monitor
Best Value For
Families seeking practical adventure capability at a competitive price point.
bZ Woodland Premium AWD
Who This Is For
Drivers who want the rugged capability but prefer added comfort and technology.
Key Additions:
• JBL premium audio
• Ventilated front seats
• Panoramic glass roof
• Digital rearview mirror
• Driver seat memory
Best For
Buyers who plan to keep the vehicle long term and value comfort enhancements in daily use.
How It Compares: Solterra Wilderness & Ioniq 5 XRT
In the compact electric SUV arena, the bZ Woodland’s capability-focused mission makes more sense when you stack it against other rugged-intent EVs. The Subaru Solterra Wilderness brings standard all-wheel drive and above-average ground clearance that has earned Subaru’s reputation for confidence in snow, mud, and uneven terrain, plus specialized drive modes tuned for low-traction surfaces; traits that edge it toward slightly better all-season utility for buyers who want traditional outdoor credibility.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 XRT, meanwhile, takes the Ioniq 5’s already capable AWD setup, raises the ride height, adds all-terrain tires and beefier suspension tuning, and trades some range for a more adventurous look and feel. The Woodland sits between them: it has more horsepower and towing capability than either, serious AWD hardware and real utility without pretending to be a hardcore trail rig, and a balanced ride that stays comfortable on pavement as well as dirt. Each has its own personality. Solterra leans into Subaru’s off-road ethos, the Ioniq 5 XRT blends rugged styling with everyday EV practicality, and the Woodland targets buyers who want a capable BEV-SUV that feels at home in both worlds.
Final Thoughts
Driving the 2026 Toyota bZ Woodland in Ojai clarified its mission more than any specification sheet could.
This is not the range-maximizing version of the bZ. It is the capability-maximizing version.
It delivers strong acceleration, standard all-wheel drive, meaningful ground clearance, legitimate towing capacity, and expanded cargo space in a package that remains comfortable and predictable in daily driving.
Articulation is moderate. Capability is practical. The rugged aesthetic is intentional.
Not every EV needs to chase a round number like 300 miles.
Some need to reflect on how families actually live.
And in that context, the Woodland makes sense.
