2026 Toyota C-HR Puts Sporty, Stylish Spin on the Compact Electric SUV

 

• C-HR Nameplate Returns to the U.S. as an All-New, Powerful Battery Electric Vehicle
• Coupe-Like Profile Gives the Compact SUV an Athletic Stance, Eye-Catching Good Looks
• Standard Dual-Motor All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with 338 Net Combined System Horsepower
• DC Fast-Charging Capability Delivers 10-80-Percent Charge in Around 30 Minutes*
• North American Charging Standard (NACS) Charge Port Offers Access to Convenient, Nationwide High-Speed Charging**
• Up to 287 Miles of Range (EPA-estimated on SE Grade)
• Premium Interior with Soft-Touch Materials, Customizable Ambient Lighting, and a 14-Inch Touchscreen
• Up to 25.3 Cubic Feet of Cargo Space Behind the Rear Seats, Which Can Expand Up to 59.5 Cubic Feet with the 60/40 Split-Folding Rear Seatbacks Folded Flat
• Expected to Arrive in U.S. Toyota Dealerships in March 2026
• Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price for the 2026 Toyota C-HR Starts at $37,000 (Excluding Dealer Processing and Handling Charges)

The all-new 2026 Toyota C-HR joins the automaker’s burgeoning battery electric vehicle (BEV) lineup. With an eye-catching, wide, athletic coupe-like profile, the model joins the revised bZ and the new bZ Woodland SUVs when it goes on sale next month. The C-HR also offers powerful electric performance, with dual motors and standard electronic All Wheel Drive (AWD) for 338 combined system horsepower.

The C-HR brings a blend of dynamic style and performance throughout, from its manufacturer-estimated 4.9-second 0-60-mph time to its sleek roofline to its modern interior feel. Its style is balanced with a practical side too, with up to 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the 60/40 split-folding rear seats, and up to 59.5 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded flat.

With its 74.7-kWh battery, the C-HR’s EPA-estimated total range rating is 287 miles* on the SE grade with 18-inch wheels, while the XSE grade with 20-inch wheels gets an EPA-estimated range rating of 273 miles*. Every C-HR includes a North American Charging System (NACS) charge port, giving it access to thousands of DC fast-charging stations and Level 2 chargers nationwide.

Developed from a compact BEV concept Toyota first presented in 2022, the new C-HR BEV is among the 21 electrified models in the U.S. Toyota lineup, and third BEV available in the U.S. It carries forward Toyota’s multi-pathway powertrain approach, with a variety of model choices available across its lineup to fit customers’ lifestyles, including BEV, Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid, and Fuel Cell EV (California only) powertrains.

*Actual range and charging times will vary depending on weather and other factors.

**Plug & Charge requires an Active Remote Connect trial or subscription. 3-year trial included. 4G network dependent.

Spacious Style
The Toyota C-HR BEV is designed as an expression of the fun-to-drive, exhilarating character of electric vehicles. Like the bZ and bZ Woodland, the C-HR is built on Toyota’s dedicated e-TNGA battery electric vehicle platform, its flowing body lines and wide stance conveying a dynamic drive. The vehicle’s compact coupe silhouette is formed by Toyota’s signature hammerhead front end flowing seamlessly into a compact cabin and angular rear.

The C-HR has wide, compact crossover proportions with an overall length of 177.9-inches, an overall width of 73.6-inches, a wheelbase of 108.3-inches, and an overall height of 63.8-inches. This helps give it spacious accommodation, with generous headroom and ample cabin space.

The interior design is clean and open, with a slim driver’s display and easy-to-access center console. For an added touch, it also has customizable ambient lighting for setting just the right mood. Altogether, it has a comfortable, high-tech cabin that is stylish and functional.

It also provides drivers and passengers alike with plenty of comfort and convenience, such as two wireless smartphone chargers and rear cabin USB ports to ensure everyone on board can be connected when on the move; rear cabin air conditioning controls; and an available panoramic roof that brings natural light to all parts of the interior.

Electrifying Performance
The 2026 Toyota C-HR BEV comes equipped with standard AWD with electric motors housed in the front and rear eAxles. It has ample power, with 338 combined system horsepower and 198/125-lb.ft. of  torque on the front/rear electric motors. Altogether, the model is expected to be capable of going from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 4.9 seconds.

Its coupe-like lines are complemented by a low center of gravity, thanks to the underfloor-mounted battery pack that is surrounded by a cross-framing structure for overall vehicle rigidity. In addition to the fundamental strength, rigidity and agility of the dedicated BEV platform, suspension parts have been precisely tuned for the new C-HR, including spring and damper performance and the stiffness of the anti-roll bars.

It has a lithium-ion battery with a total capacity of 74.7 kWh and an 11-kW on-board AC charger. Its NACS charging port is capable of Level 3 DC fast-charging, giving it access to thousands of public high-speed charging stations nationwide. When using fast charging, the C-HR is capable of recharging from 10% to 80% battery capacity in around 30 minutes under ideal conditions*. The 2026 C-HR is also capable of charging on Level 1 and Level 2 AC power sources.

The Toyota C-HR comes standard with Plug & Charge** capability, an industry standard protocol that allows automatic identification, authentication and authorization at selected charging networks, reducing the need for multiple mobile charging applications.

A Battery Preconditioning feature is also included on C-HR. This system is designed to bring the battery to an optimal temperature for DC fast charging, which can enable faster charging. This function can be activated manually using system settings or automatically by setting the navigation system destination to a fast-charging station (with an active Drive Connect trial or subscription***).

The 2026 C-HR also features steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters to activate and adjust regenerative braking. Regenerative braking is the process of converting energy created by the movement of the vehicle, also known as kinetic energy, into electrical energy. The driver can adjust the amount of regenerative braking power from four levels using the paddle shifters.

*Actual range and charging times will vary depending on weather and other factors.

**Plug & Charge requires an Active Remote Connect trial or subscription. 3-year trial included. 4G network dependent.

***Battery Preconditioning automatic activation function requires an active Drive Connect trial or subscription. 3-year trial included. 4G network dependent.

Two Style and Value-Packed Grades
Available in SE and XSE grades, the C-HR has a number of standard interior features, with even the SE including a 14-inch touchscreen that runs the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, a fully digital gauge cluster, dual wireless chargers in the center console, and the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 system. The cabin also brings modern style and comfort across the grades, with seating choices from fabric and SofTex-trim to synthetic suede and SofTex trim.

On the outside, key standard equipment on the SE grade includes a power liftgate, low-profile roof rails, rain-sensing wipers, and 18-inch wheels, while the XSE upgrades to 20-inch wheels. A variety of exterior paint colors in single and two-tone paint options are available, including the all-new Overcast and Tandoori colors, along with Cement, Midnight Black Metallic, and Wind Chill Pearl (premium paint option). The XSE will also have two-tone paint available, including the combination of Tandoori, Cement, or Wind Chill Pearl with a Midnight Black Metallic Roof. Key features by grade include:

SE

• EPA-estimated 287-mile total driving range rating*
• 338 net combined system horsepower
• 74.7-kW battery
• 11-kW onboard AC charger
• Dual-voltage 120V/240V AC charging cable
• Standard NACS-to-CCS charging adapter included
• NACS charging port
• 18-in. wheels with black inserts
• Power back door
• Rain-sensing wipers
• Low profile roof rails
• Fabric/SofTex trimmed seating with 8-way power driver seat and 6-way manual passenger seat
• Heated front seats and steering wheel
• 14-in. touchscreen with Toyota Audio Multimedia system
• Two front wireless Qi phone chargers
• Four USB-Type C ports (one front media, one front 15W, two rear 60W combined)
• Toyota Safety Sense 3.0
• Front & Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking
• Blind Spot Monitor

XSE (adds to or replaces SE features with):

• EPA-estimated 273-mile total driving range rating*
• 20-in. gunmetal-finished wheels
• SofTex and synthetic suede-trimmed seats
• 8-way power passenger seat
• Driver memory seat
• Traffic Jam Assist**
• Lane Change Assist
• Panoramic View Monitor

*Actual range and charging times will vary depending on weather and other factors.

**4G Network dependent. Requires an active Drive Connect subscription or trial. Subscription required after trial period.

Intuitive Connected Tech
Modern convenience also comes standard on the 2026 Toyota C-HR, as every trim comes with a 14-inch touchscreen that runs the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, designed and engineered by Toyota’s Texas-based software teams. It also comes with a host of Connected Services** trials.

The included Drive Connect** three-year trial gives access to Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation and Destination Assist. With Intelligent Assistant, simple phrases like “Hey Toyota” awakens the system for voice activated commands to search for directions, find Points of Interest (POI), adjust audio controls, change the cabin temperatures and more. Cloud Navigation, the available onboard navigation solution, utilizes the cloud to download the latest available map, traffic, and routing information. To ensure users have the most up-to-date search capabilities, POI search is provided by Google Points-of-Interest data. Destination Assist also gives access to 24/7 live agent assistance to locate the next destination.

All Toyota C-HR models are equipped with a six-speaker audio system for enjoying entertainment while on-the-go, a JBL® Premium Audio system with 9 speakers, including an 8-channel 800-watt amplifier and 9-inch subwoofer is available on the XSE grade.

The Toyota Audio Multimedia system also allows for dual Bluetooth phone connectivity, with support for standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. With further connectivity, the C-HR has a Wi-Fi Connect trial (30 days or up to 3GB upon activation) that offers 4G connectivity for up to five devices – turning the C-HR into an AT&T Hotspot.

Adding to the already robust offering of audio playback ability with HD Radio, USB data and a SiriusXM® three-month trial subscription, Wi-Fi Connect also enables the Integrated Streaming feature, providing the ability to link separate Apple Music® and Amazon Music subscriptions to the vehicle for onboard control.

The C-HR also comes with a five-year minimum trial subscription for both Safety Connect** and Service Connect**. Safety Connect includes an Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), 24/7 Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification and Stolen Vehicle Locator. Service Connect gives drivers the capability to receive Vehicle Health Reports, Maintenance Alerts and reminders.

With the Toyota app, users can stay connected to their C-HR with Remote Connect**, included as a three-year trial. With Remote Connect, users can activate headlights, a horn alert, buzzer, and unlock the rear hatch. The remote climate features include the ability to adjust in-cabin temperature controls, including remote activation of the available seat heaters/ventilators, steering wheel heater, defroster, and schedule a timer to activate in a daily routine.

Remote charging capabilities are also included with Remote Connect trial or subscription on the C-HR, which includes the ability to check charging status, start/stop charging with a vehicle that is already plugged in and even edit charging schedules, allowing for enhanced controls of the C-HR’s charging. The Toyota app also provides an easy-to-use map to find charging station locations near you or along your route.

**4G Network dependent. Subscription required after trial period.

Active Safety & Driver Assist Technology
The C-HR features Toyota Safety Sense 3.0™, Toyota’s suite of active safety and driver assistance features designed to support driver awareness, decision-making, and vehicle operation. Please note that Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 systems and driver assist features are not a substitute for safe and attentive driving. The safety suite includes:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD): Designed to help detect a vehicle, pedestrian, bicyclist, or motorcyclist and provide an audible/visual forward-collision warning under certain circumstances. If you don’t react, the system is designed to provide automatic emergency braking.
• Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DCRR): An adaptive cruise control system that is designed to be set at speeds above 20 mph. DRCC uses vehicle-to-vehicle distance control to help maintain a preset distance from the vehicle ahead of you.
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA):  Detects lane markings or the road’s edge at speeds above 30 mph. LDA w/SA is designed to provide an audible/visual warning if an inadvertent lane departure is detected. If no corrective action is taken, Steering Assist is designed to provide gentle corrective steering for lane-keeping assistance.
• Lane Tracing Assist (LTA): Designed to help keep the vehicle in the center of a lane. LTA assists the driver with steering control while DRCC is in use.
• Road Sign Assist (RSA): Uses the forward-facing camera to recognize specific road signs, such as speed limit, stop, and yield signs. RSA provides sign information to the driver via the Multi-Information Display.
• Automatic High Beams (AHB): Designed to detect headlights of oncoming vehicles and taillights of preceding vehicles. AHB automatically toggles between high and low beams as appropriate.
• Proactive Driving Assist (PDA): Uses the vehicle’s camera and radar, when system operating conditions are met, to provide gentle braking and/or steering to support driving tasks such as distance control between your vehicle and a preceding vehicle, pedestrian, or bicyclist. PDA can also provide gentle braking into curves.

For complete details on TSS 3.0, please visit Toyota.com/safety-sense.

Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert is also standard. The BSM system uses rear side radar sensors installed on the inner side of the rear bumper, on both the left and right sides, to assist the driver in confirming safety when changing lanes. The RCTA function uses the same sensors installed behind the rear bumper. This function is intended to assist the driver in checking areas that are not easily visible when backing up.

Safe Exit Alert is also standard on the C-HR. This system is designed to detect vehicles or cyclists approaching from the rear and judge if there is a possibility of a collision with an open door or passengers who are exiting. Safe Exit Alert will illuminate an indicator in the outer mirror and provide an audible alert to notify vehicle occupants.

The Toyota C-HR is also equipped with Toyota’s Star Safety System, standard. This system includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), and Smart Stop Technology® (SST).

Driver assistance features include Traffic Jam Assist, Lane Change Assist, and Front Cross-Traffic Alert, standard**.

In terms of battery safety, Toyota uses many measures to help protect cell integrity, thanks to the design and a multiple monitoring system intended to protect the vehicle’s battery system. This includes:

• Redundant monitoring of battery voltage, current and temperature designed to detect signs of abnormal heating to maintain optimal battery temperature and help prevent cell damage
• Utilization of a high-resistance coolant circulation system is designed to help prevent a thermal event from short circuits even in high battery load conditions due to repeatedly switching between high-speed driving and rapid charging

** Traffic Jam Assist requires a Drive Connect trial/subscription. 4G network dependent.

Limited Warranty
Toyota’s 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation. The Electric Vehicle Driving Components, including the traction battery, are covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Toyota dealers have complete details on the limited warranty.

The Toyota C-HR also comes with ToyotaCare, a plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance, for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and three years of Roadside Assistance, regardless of mileage.

Toyota’s All-Electric Lineup Gains Rugged, Powerful New bZ Woodland SUV

 

• Standard All-Wheel Drive with 375 Horsepower Combined System Output
• 281 Mile of EPA-Estimated Driving Range Rating (260 miles for bZ Woodland Models Equipped with Optional All-Terrain Tire)
• DC Fast-Charging Times Around 30 Minutes* (10-80% Charge Under Ideal Conditions)
• Equipped with North American Charging System (NACS) Port for Wide Access to Thousands of DC Fast Charging Stations in the U.S.
• Ample Utility with 74.3-Cubic Foot Rear Cargo Area with Seats Folded Flat, 8.4-inch Ground Clearance, Panoramic View Monitor with Multi-Terrain Monitor, and up to 3,500-lb Towing Capacity
• Well-Equipped Interior with Standard SofTex®-Trimmed Seating, 14-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia Touchscreen, Dual Wireless Qi Device Charging, Ambient Lighting and More
• bZ Woodland Premium Model Adds JBL® Premium Audio, Ventilated Front Seats with Memory Driver’s Seat, Panoramic Moonroof, Front Radiant Heaters, and More
• Expected to Arrive in U.S. Toyota Dealerships in March 2026
• Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2026 Toyota bZ Woodland Starts at $45,300 (Excluding Dealer Processing and Handling Fee)

Toyota’s most rugged addition to its battery-electric (BEV) lineup, the first-ever 2026 bZ Woodland is expected to arrive at dealerships nationwide next month. Equipped with standard all-wheel drive with X-MODE®, the bZ Woodland has a net combined system output of 375 horsepower and an EPA-estimated total driving range rating of up to 281 miles (the EPA-estimated driving range rating is 260 miles when equipped with optional All-Terrain tires). It also has midsize SUV utility, with the aforementioned all-terrain tire option, 8.4 inches of ground clearance, and up to 3,500-pound towing capacity.

The 2026 bZ Woodland brings a different twist to the existing bZ’s style. It adds rugged black overfenders to the Toyota hammerhead front end, has nearly 6-inches of additional length, and just under one inch of additional height in the rear. The extra length gives it a bit more space than its bZ sibling, with 74.3 cubic feet of storage with second row seats folded flat, versus the bZ model’s 67.1 cubic feet.

Its standard roof rails further set it apart from the bZ, providing added utility for accessories like luggage or bicycle racks. For the finishing touch, bZ Woodland’s 18-inch aluminum wheels with aero covers give it a modern-yet-rugged feel, and the available All Terrain tires are a great option for drivers that want to venture on the less beaten path.

With its standard 375-hp net combined system output, the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive (AWD) powertrain makes the bZ Woodland the most powerful bZ yet. Toyota estimates the bZ Woodland can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds.

The bZ Woodland is the second BEV that will be joining the Toyota lineup, along with the refreshed bZ SUV and the all-new C-HR compact crossover. The total number of electrified models in the Toyota lineup, including BEV, Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid, and Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (California only) powertrains, is now 21 models.

*Estimate only. Actual range will vary depending on weather, driving style, and other factors.

Intuitive, Focused Driving with Adventurous Flair

The bZ Woodland comes equipped with All-wheel drive with electric motors housed in the front and rear eAxles. It comes standard with X-MODE ®, an AWD function that helps to optimize brake control and power delivery at the wheels for enhanced control and traction.

Another feature of the AWD X-MODE ® system is Grip Control. When activated and used at low speeds, the system modulates motor power delivery to enhance capability in adverse conditions. This feature was developed as an added function to react to road surface characteristics and maintain a constant speed to improve the driver’s ability to focus on what’s ahead.

Its AWD capability combines with the smooth, yet exhilarating, driving performance inherent in an all-electric vehicle. Its powerful drive is complemented by a low center of gravity, thanks to its battery pack placed flat under the floor. A battery cross-framing structure also adds to overall vehicle rigidity for stable handling.

Charging Up the Woodland

The 2026 Toyota bZ Woodland comes with a lithium-ion battery with a total capacity of 74.7 kWh and a North American Charging System (NACS) port compatible with Level 3 DC fast-charging. Under ideal conditions when using DC fast charging, the bZ is capable of charging from 10% to 80% battery capacity in around 30 minutes*.

The bZ Woodland is also equipped with a Battery Pre-conditioning feature. This system is designed to bring the battery to an optimal temperature for DC fast charging, which can enable faster charging. This function can be activated manually using system settings or automatically by setting the navigation system destination to a fast-charging station (with an active Drive Connect trial or subscription**).

The Toyota bZ Woodland also features Plug & Charge*** capability, an industry standard protocol that allows automatic identification, authentication and authorization at selected charging networks, reducing the need for multiple mobile charging applications.

For added charging flexibility, the 11-kW on-board charger enables Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging. It also comes standard with a dual-voltage 120V/240V home charger, making at-home Level 2 charging as easy as plugging into an applicable 240V outlet. The 2026 bZ Woodland has steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters to activate and adjust regenerative braking. These paddles turn the system on and dial the regenerative braking force up or down based on driver preference to capture energy during braking and transfer it to the battery.

*Estimate only. Actual range will vary depending on weather, driving style, and other factors.
**Battery Preconditioning automatic activation function requires an active Drive Connect trial or subscription. 3-year trial included. 4G network dependent.
***Plug & Charge requires an active Remote Connect trial or subscription. 3-year trial included. 4G network dependent.

Woodland Grades
Thanks to its BEV-dedicated e-TNGA platform, the bZ Woodland’s spacious cabin provides ample room for passengers, who can relax with abundant legroom for front and rear seats as well as ample side-to-side space in the rear. For entertainment and connectivity, a 14-inch touchscreen equipped with the Toyota Audio Multimedia system is standard.

The 2026 bZ Woodland is available in two, well-equipped grades: bZ Woodland and bZ Woodland Premium. The base grade bZ Woodland comes with plenty of comfort and convenience features, including heated seats front and outboard positions in the rear, a heated steering wheel, dual Qi-capable wireless device chargers, Digital Key* capability, dual-zone automatic climate control, and customizable ambient interior lighting.

The Premium model adds JBL® Premium Audio, front seat radiant heating, a fixed glass panoramic sunroof, a digital rearview mirror, ventilated front seats with driver’s seat and side view mirror memory.  All-Terrain tires are also available on both bZ Woodland trim levels.

Exterior paint options also capture its outdoor spirit, and will include the all-new Stepping Stone, along with Halo, Steel, Pavement, Raven Black, and Trueno Blue. Interior seating colors stay with the bZ Woodland’s outdoor motif and include Stone Brown and Black.

Key features by grade include:

bZ Woodland AWD

• 375 net combined system horsepower
• 281-mile EPA-estimated total driving range
• Dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD)
• Standard 120V/240V dual-voltage charging cable
• Standard J1772 and CCS1 charging adapters
• 8.4 inches of ground clearance
• X-MODE® with Grip Control
• Roof rails
• 18-in. wheels with black covers
• Dual Qi-capable wireless device chargers
• 14-in. Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen
• Four USB-C ports (one front media, one front 15W, two rear 60W combined)
• Heated, power-adjustable, and power-folding exterior mirrors
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• 8-way power-adjustable front seats
• SofTex-trimmed seats
• Heated front seats and heated outboard rear seats
• Heated steering wheel
• Digital Key* capability
• Smart Key System on all doors and rear liftgate
• Available all-terrain tires (260-mile EPA-estimated total driving range rating with this option)

bZ Woodland Premium AWD (adds to or replaces bZ Woodland features with)

• 375 net combined system horsepower
• 281-mile EPA-estimated total driving range
• Ventilated front seats
• Front-seat radiant foot and leg heaters
• Driver seat memory function
• Auto tilt exterior mirrors with memory settings
• Digital rearview mirror with HomeLink
• JBL® 9-speaker audio system with subwoofer and amplifier
• Panoramic fixed-glass roof with power sunshade
• Available all-terrain tires (260-mile EPA-estimated total driving range rating with this option)

*Digital Key requires an active Remote Connect trial or subscription. 3-yeat trial included. 4G network dependent.

Intuitive Connected Tech
The Toyota bZ Woodland comes with a 14-inch touchscreen that runs the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, designed and engineered by Toyota’s Texas-based software teams.

bZ Woodland models are equipped with a six-speaker audio system for enjoying entertainment while on-the-go. For those looking for an enhanced audio experience, the bZ Woodland Premium model includes a JBL® Premium Audio system with nine speakers, including an eight-channel 800-watt amplifier and nine-inch subwoofer.

The Toyota Audio Multimedia system also allows for dual Bluetooth phone connectivity, with support for standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. With further connectivity, the bZ Woodland has a Wi-Fi Connect trial (30 days or up to 3GB after activation) that offers 4G connectivity for up to five devices – turning the bZ into an AT&T Hotspot.

Adding to the already robust offering of audio playback ability with HD Radio, USB data and a SiriusXM® 3-month trial subscription, Wi-Fi Connect* also enables the new Integrated Streaming feature, providing the ability to link separate Apple Music® and Amazon Music subscriptions to the vehicle for onboard control.

It also comes with a host of Toyota Connected Services** trials. An active Drive Connect** trial or subscription gives access to Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation and Destination Assist. With Intelligent Assistant, simple phrases like “Hey Toyota” awakens the system for voice activated commands to search for directions, find Points of Interest (POI), adjust audio controls, change the cabin temperatures and more. Cloud Navigation, the available onboard navigation solution, utilizes the cloud to download the latest available map, traffic and routing information. To ensure users have the most up-to-date search capabilities, POI search is provided by Google Points-of-Interest data. Destination Assist also gives access to 24/7 live agent assistance to locate the next destination.

The bZ Woodland also comes with a five-year minimum trial subscription for Safety Connect*** and Service Connect***. Safety Connect includes an Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), 24/7 Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification and Stolen Vehicle Locator. Service Connect gives drivers the capability to receive Vehicle Health Reports, Maintenance Alerts and reminders.

With the Toyota app, users can stay connected to their bZ Woodland with the Remote Connect** service, included as a three-year trial. With Remote Connect, users can activate headlights, a horn alert, buzzer and unlock the rear hatch. The remote climate features include the ability for in-cabin temperature controls, including remote activation of the available seat heaters/ventilators, steering wheel heater, defroster, and the ability to schedule a timer to activate in a daily routine.

All Toyota bZ Woodland models will also have access to the available Toyota Digital Key***, a feature of the Remote Connect service that enables a smartphone to be used instead of a physical key. Owners can also share vehicle access with ease, making it simple to lock, unlock and start the vehicle all through the Toyota App.

Remote charging capabilities are also included with Remote Connect trial or subscription on the bZ Woodland, which includes the ability to check charging status, start/stop charging with a vehicle that is already plugged in and even edit charging schedules, allowing for enhanced controls of the bZ Woodland’s charging. The Toyota App also provides an easy-to-use map to find charging station locations near you or along your route.

*4G network dependent.
**Connected Services trials begin on original purchase or lease date of new vehicle with the exception of Wi-Fi Connect, for which trial begins at time of activation. 4G network dependent. 3-year Drive Connect trial included.
***Digital Key, Safety Connect, and Service Connect requires an active Remote Connect trial or subscription. 4G network dependent.

Active Safety & Driver Assist Technology

The bZ Woodland features Toyota Safety Sense 3.0™, Toyota’s suite of active safety and driver assistance features that is designed to support driver awareness, decision making, and vehicle operation. This system uses a combination of millimeter wave radar and monocular camera to monitor various driving conditions. Please note that Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 systems are not a substitute for safe and attentive driving, you can find an online version of the Owner’s Manual here for instructions and limitations. The safety suite includes:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: Designed to help detect a vehicle, pedestrian, bicyclist, or motorcyclist and provide an audible/visual forward-collision warning under certain circumstances. If you don’t react, the system is designed to provide automatic emergency braking.
• Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: An adaptive cruise control system that is designed to be set at speeds above 20 mph. DRCC uses vehicle-to-vehicle distance control to help maintain a preset distance from the vehicle ahead of you.
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist: Detects lane markings or the road’s edge at speeds above 30 mph. LDA w/SA is designed to provide an audible/visual warning if an inadvertent lane departure is detected. If no corrective action is taken, Steering Assist is designed to provide gentle corrective steering for lane-keeping assistance.
• Lane Tracing Assist: Designed to help keep the vehicle in the center of a lane. LTA assists the driver with steering control while DRCC is in use.
• Road Sign Assist: Uses the forward-facing camera to recognize specific road signs, such as speed limit, stop, and yield signs. RSA provides sign information to the driver via the Multi-Information Display.
• Automatic High Beams: Designed to detect headlights of oncoming vehicles and taillights of preceding vehicles. AHB automatically toggles between high and low beams as appropriate.
• Proactive Driving Assist: Uses the vehicle’s camera and radar, when system operating conditions are met, to provide gentle braking and/or steering to support driving tasks such as distance control between your vehicle and a preceding vehicle, pedestrian, or bicyclist. PDA can also provide gentle braking into curves.

For complete details on TSS 3.0, please visit Toyota.com/safety-sense.

Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (BSM with RCTA) is also standard. The BSM system uses rear side radar sensors installed on the inner side of the rear bumper on the left and right side to assist the driver in confirming safety when changing lanes. The RCTA function uses the same sensors installed behind the rear bumper. This function is intended to assist the driver in checking areas that are not easily visible when backing up.

Whether you’re maneuvering into a tight parking space or over rough terrain, the standard Panoramic View Monitor with Multi-Terrain Monitor provides an enhanced view around the vehicle. Multiple angles around the vehicle can be selected to be displayed on the 14-inch multimedia screen.

Safe Exit Alert is also standard on bZ Woodland. This system is designed to detect vehicles or cyclists approaching from the rear and judges if there is a possibility of a collision with an opened door or passengers who are exiting. Safe Exit Alert will illuminate an indicator in the outer mirror and provide an audible alert to notify vehicle occupants.

The Toyota bZ Woodland is also equipped with Toyota’s Star Safety System, standard. This system includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Smart Stop Technology® (SST).

In terms of battery safety, Toyota uses many measures to help protect cell integrity, thanks to the design and a multiple monitoring system intended to protect the vehicle’s battery system. This includes:

• Redundant monitoring of battery voltage, current and temperature designed to detect signs of abnormal heating to maintain optimal battery temperature and help prevent cell damage
• Utilization of a high-resistance coolant circulation system is designed to help prevent a thermal event from short circuits even in high battery load conditions due to repeatedly switching between high-speed driving and rapid charging

Limited Warranty
Toyota’s 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation. The Electric Vehicle Driving Components, including the traction battery, are covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Toyota dealers have complete details on the limited warranty.

The Toyota bZ Woodland also comes with ToyotaCare, a plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance, for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and three years of Roadside Assistance, regardless of mileage.

The Tacoma Makes History … Again!

 Toyota Tacoma Named Truck of Texas for the second year in a row at the Texas Auto Writers Association Annual Truck Rodeo

The fourth-generation Toyota Tacoma made history last year when it was the first midsize pickup truck to win the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) Truck of Texas. It topped itself in 2026, becoming a back-to-back winner when awarded the title Truck of Texas by TAWA at its 32nd annual Texas Truck Rodeo event. This marks the fourth time in five years a Toyota pickup has taken the top award at the Truck Rodeo, with the full-size Toyota Tundra earning honors in 2022 and 2024.

“It’s great to see Tacoma win the Truck of Texas again for the second year in a row. It caps a great 2025 with its best-selling year ever, continuing a run as the most popular midsize pickup in the U.S. the last 21 years in a row,” said Brock Cartlidge, senior manager of Toyota Vehicle Marketing and Communities. “We appreciate TAWA’s members recognizing the Tacoma as the first Truck of Texas from a segment other than full-size pickup.”

The fourth-generation Tacoma debuted in the spring of 2023 with two new powertrains, including the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, with a total system output of up to 326 horsepower and a whopping 465 lb.-ft. of torque, a 75 percent increase in torque compared to the previous generation V-6 powered truck. Designed by Calty Design Research in California, engineered by TMNA R&D in Ann Arbor, and assembled for North America, Tacoma offers 11 unique grades to fit various lifestyles and customer needs. The Trailhunter grade builds upon Toyota’s legendary off-road and overlanding credibility with purpose-built engineering and robust components.

The Baja-inspired TRD Pro debuted the segment-first IsoDynamic Performance Seat for enhanced off-road driving control and comfort, while the Trailhunter grade is a factory-developed overlanding rig built from the ground up with the latest integrated off-road equipment from ARB, Old Man Emu, and RIGID.

TAWA’s annual Texas Truck Rodeo brings together journalists to evaluate automakers’ latest trucks and SUVs on an off-road course and a street drive. The fall event was held at Eagles Canyon Raceway in Decatur, Texas. Vehicles from the world’s top manufacturers were evaluated on interior, exterior, value, performance, and personal appeal.

“Earning Truck of Texas honors for the second consecutive year underscores how the Toyota Tacoma continues to set the benchmark for durability, capability, and real-world performance as judged by the Texas Auto Writers Association,” said TAWA President Cory Fourniquet.

TAWA is a Texas-based nonprofit association for automotive journalists promoting professionalism and quality in journalism for more than two decades. TAWA has grown to become one of the most influential and recognized automotive-journalist associates in the U.S. The group produces two annual events – Texas Auto Roundup and Texas Truck Rodeo – that allow members to experience vehicles from various manufacturers in one place, at one time.

For more information on the Toyota Tacoma, visit the Toyota Newsroom.

Creating Pathways to Skilled Trade Careers in Advanced Manufacturing

As technology continues to expand into every part of our lives, the advancements in manufacturing need both innovation and a skilled workforce to make it possible.

The manufacturing sector will need to fill 3.8 million skilled workers over the next decade, according to a Deloitte study commissioned by The Manufacturing Institute. Current U.S. community colleges and apprenticeship programs are only expected to meet about half the number of workers needed to fill those jobs. That leaves a gap of about 1.9 million skilled manufacturing employees.

Toyota is working to address this shortage through manufacturing-oriented programs that teach students about the possibilities of fun, interesting careers they might not have considered. These programs also provide practical skills that will provide participants with well-paid jobs with growth opportunities.

Growing FAME Advanced Manufacturing Technicians
In 2010, Toyota began a collaboration with the Bluegrass Community & Technical College, a school near the Toyota Motor Manufacturing plant in Georgetown, Ky. It has since expanded to a total of 10 Toyota manufacturing locations and a total of nearly 50 chapters nationwide.

This program became the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME). Students learn valuable skills from robotics to basic electricity, hydraulics, mechanics, and industrial troubleshooting. They also teach soft skills like teamwork, leadership, and time management.

“There’s an image that people have in their mind that manufacturing is dark, dirty, and dangerous, but it’s not,” said Stacy Droddy, talent acquisition analyst at Toyota West Virginia. “We try to share with our potential students that manufacturing is clean and safe. It’s highly technical. These aren’t just jobs. They are career pathways.”

Students receive paid training while attending school. Graduates earn associate degrees and can be certified as Advanced Manufacturing Technicians (AMTs). While they study, they work part-time in manufacturing facilities — being paid enough to cover tuition and living expenses.

When they graduate, their job is ready. About 85 percent of AMTs in the FAME program go on to work for their sponsoring employer. Graduates that are sponsored by Toyota have been working for the manufacturer for two years, and they already possess knowledge of Toyota’s systems and practices.  When they come in, they are ready to hit the floor running,” Droddy said.  “They don’t have to be taught about the equipment they’ll be working on.”

Graduate With No Debt and Skills to Excel
That’s how it worked out for Conner Bush. Bush, 20, started out with AMT at the recommendation of his father Mike, a longtime Toyota employee and manager at the Buffalo plant. Bush had a habit of fixing the family’s garbage disposal or lawn mower when he was growing up. His dad suggested Bush might as well get paid to do something similar at Toyota. The idea started to make more sense to Bush when he took pre-engineering classes at the college and wasn’t enjoying them.

Bush’s aptitude was refined in AMT training, which also included learning about Toyota culture. His days are filled with unique and interesting challenges. He uses cutting-edge software and diagnostic tools to understand why equipment, such as high-speed spindles (tools that bore holes into engine blocks) aren’t functioning properly.

“I have no debt whatsoever, and I’ve got a job that a lot of people my age would fight for,” Bush said. “I just wish more people would do it, because it’s a really good opportunity, especially for someone coming straight out of high school like I did.”

Series Note:
This article is part of a series of feature articles about the various workforce development programs across Toyota Motor North America. These programs span STEM education programs from Pre-K to 12, high-school and post-secondary industry programs, scholarships, internships and on-the-job training. To learn more about AMT, 4T Academy, T-TEN, Driving Possibilities, scholarship and internship programs, visit Community Engagement in the Toyota Newsroom.

Toyota’s Vehicle-to-Grid Program with Oncor Energy Demonstrates Benefits of Bidirectional BEV Charging

 

In conjunction with Texas-based Oncor, one of the nation’s largest utilities, Toyota has now introduced the next phase of its vehicle-to-grid (V2G) pilot. This program is designed to demonstrate real-world value by using bidirectional energy flow to enhance customer experience and create a more sustainable infrastructure that has the potential to lessen stress on the grid if scaled up.

“At Toyota, we are deeply committed to advancing technologies that enhance the everyday lives of our customers,” said Christopher Yang, senior vice president of Enterprise Strategy & Solutions at Toyota Motor North America (TMNA). “V2G technology represents a transformative step in delivering an exceptional home charging experience. It can enable drivers to reduce their electricity costs and help contribute toward a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.”

Yang continued: “For utilities, V2G can help smooth out spikes in demand and limit outages. It can help power homes when electricity is needed most and potentially serve as a virtual power plant, helping customers manage not only when they get their electricity, but from where.”

Toyota’s Japanese-specification bZ4X serves as the test vehicle for its V2G pilot program at TMNA HQ.

Kicked off in late 2022, the first phase of the pilot focused on leveraging testing vehicle and technology capabilities by integrating a Toyota bZ4X prototype vehicle and Oncor’s microgrid at its test facility in South Dallas to better understand the interconnectivity between BEVs and the grid.

This latest phase of the pilot is currently taking place at Toyota’s Plano HQ to study the following:

• Enhancing Grid Stability: By enabling BEVs to supply power during peak demand periods, V2G can act like a network of “virtual” power plants, helping to stabilize the grid during extreme weather conditions.
• Providing Backup Power: BEV batteries, such as the pack in the Toyota bZ, can provide backup electricity for homes during outages.
• Offering Cost Savings: In regions with variable electricity pricing, customers can charge their vehicles during off-peak hours and use stored energy during peak times, potentially reducing overall electricity costs.
• Improving Infrastructure Longevity: By easing strain on power lines and transformers, V2G can help extend the life of grid infrastructure and potentially reduce costs passed on to consumers.

Further, based on day-ahead market pricing, it may even be possible for customers to “sell back” energy to utilities, reducing monthly out-of-pocket costs.

How It Works
Wrapped in a distinctive blue “V2G” design, Toyota’s Japanese-spec bZ4X is connected to a Fermata Energy EV charger. This charger, managed by Fermata’s cloud-based V2G optimization platform, enables bidirectional energy flow by analyzing price signals and grid conditions to determine the optimal times to charge the vehicle and discharge stored energy back to the grid.

Currently, more than 4 million battery electric vehicles are on U.S. roads. If all were equipped with bidirectional charging, they could collectively contribute approximately 40,000 megawatts to the grid – a power output similar to that of 40 nuclear power reactors.

Toyota team members from Enterprise Strategy & Solutions celebrated the grand launch of the V2G pilot. L to R: Kellie Alexander, Anne Wu, Chris Yang, Maddy Strutner, Joy Baskin, Thibaut de Barros Conti, Martin Tran and Chris Moon.

Collaborative Pilots and Future Outlook
Toyota is actively testing V2G technology through pilot projects with other utilities including San Diego Gas & Electric and Pepco in Maryland. These pilots aim to help Toyota and the utilities understand diverse customer needs and infrastructure requirements across different markets.

“Integrating vehicles into the grid presents a huge opportunity to increase renewable penetration to the grid and make energy more affordable. Utilities are a key stakeholder in this transformation, and Toyota appreciates the learnings generated from these V2G pilots,” said Maddy Strutner, Manager of Grid Services at TMNA.

Representatives from Toyota, Oncor and Nuvve/Fermata celebrated the opening of Toyota’s V2G pilot TMNA HQ. L to R: Chris Yang, Geoff Bailey (Oncor), Ellen Buck (Oncor), Hamza Lemsaddek (Fermata) and Thibaut de Barros Conti.

Driving Innovation Forward
Toyota is working to develop the necessary technologies and business models to enable seamless V2G integration.

“This pilot is a critical step in exploring how connected vehicles can transform the broader energy ecosystem, delivering value to customers, the grid, and communities,” Yang said. “By enabling bidirectional charging, we’re exploring how we can help customers potentially save money while also reducing carbon emissions from the grid – a win-win for drivers and the environment.”

Toyota Texas Earns 2025 Global Safety Excellence Award

 Toyota Motor Corporation announces its highest honors for global manufacturing safety

Following a competitive process across its footprint worldwide, Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) named Toyota Texas as its Global Safety Excellence Award winner for 2025. The prestigious annual award is given to one Toyota vehicle manufacturing facility for overall safety focus and performance. Toyota Texas received the trophy for their innovative program that combined production shop-specific tactics with an employee-centered approach that resulted in a best-ever year for safety at the plant.

“This Global Safety Excellence Award is more than recognition; it’s proof of who we are at Toyota Texas,” said Frank Voss, plant president and Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) group vice president for truck manufacturing. “I’m so proud that in a demanding year, our team members showed that discipline and care go hand in hand, making our plant one of the safest in Toyota’s global network. Thank you, Team Texas, for showing the world the strength of our safety culture and that safety excellence is possible.”

In a multiple model change year with increased vehicle volume demands, the Toyota Texas safety team led the plant to focus on refining safety systems and management based on shop needs. Improved communication of safety key performance indicators (KPIs) also helped identify trends to be addressed, while keeping team members aware of safety performance and actions they could take to contribute. The effort resulted in gains with multiple safety KPIs, which caught TMC’s attention and landed the global prize.

“Thank you, Toyota Texas, for your continuous work and support to keep our safety culture at the forefront each day,” said Toyota Texas safety senior manager Rhonda Ebersole. “This achievement doesn’t happen by accident; it happens with our collective focus on and attention to safety to ensure everyone returns home to their families as healthy as they came in while delivering the best vehicles on the road today.”

Toyota Texas won top honors in a competitive evaluation against finalist plants from the automaker’s other regions across the globe. Joining Voss in a special trophy ceremony at the San Antonio plant was Mark Templin, executive vice president and chief operating officer, TMNA; Kevin Voelkel, senior vice president of manufacturing operations, TMNA; Carla Wright, Toyota Texas safety champion and vice president for manufacturing; among other plant leaders and safety team members.

“This milestone reflects our team members’ unwavering commitment, collaboration and dedication to creating a culture in which safety is not just a priority – it’s a shared value,” said Wright. “Our efforts have set a global benchmark, and this recognition belongs to each and every team member.”

With 3,700 Toyota Texas employees and an additional 5,600 supplier employees on campus, Toyota Texas is the exclusive global home to the Toyota Tundra and Sequoia. The new $531M rear axle plant announced in 2024 is set to begin production in fall of 2026.