2026 Toyota bZ vs 2026 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

The 2026 Toyota bZ was offered in XLE and Limited trims, with options for single-motor front-wheel drive (FWD) or dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD), and two battery sizes. Models with the larger battery were priced higher but provided enhanced power, performance, and range, with prices ranging from $36,495 to $46,895, including the destination charge. The XLE test vehicle featured FWD and the optional larger battery, transforming it into the XLE Plus for an additional $3,000. The vehicle's exterior was enhanced with Heavy Metal paint and other options, bringing the MSRP to $40,468. The 2026 bZ's restyled appearance was more appealing, especially with body-color trim, and the interior boasted a cleaner dashboard and center console, with fabric seats that had an upscale pattern. The 14-inch center touchscreen integrated climate control, which, despite initial concerns, was user-friendly with large dials and buttons. However, the digital driver display was criticized for its placement and readability.

The 2026 Land Rover Range Rover Sport maintained its distinctive, elegant design, characterized by a steeply angled windshield and rear window, a gently sloping roofline, and minimal creases. The SV Carbon variant stood out with a two-tone hood featuring exposed carbon fiber and other carbon garnishes. The vehicle's 23-inch carbon wheels were a testament to its performance capabilities, and the Sunrise Copper paint added a bold yet tasteful touch. The interior evolved from the previous generation, featuring a minimalist aesthetic that some found too sparse. While the use of black plastic was noted, the quality of the seat controls and steering wheel was praised. The Ultrafabrics option provided a practical alternative to leather, and a variety of headliners were available. However, the removal of physical controls in favor of touchscreen interfaces was seen as a drawback.

The 2026 Toyota bZ offered a range of powertrain options. The XLE with FWD featured a single electric motor and a 57.7-kWh battery, delivering 165 horsepower and 198 pound-feet of torque, with an EPA-estimated range of 236 miles and an efficiency rating of 26 kWh/100 miles. The optional 74.7-kWh battery increased power to 224 hp and extended the range to 314 miles. Dual-motor models, available only with the larger battery, produced 338 hp and offered varying ranges depending on the trim. The bZ's charging capabilities included compatibility with Tesla Superchargers and a 240-volt Level 2 home charger. Efficiency tests showed favorable results, with the bZ averaging 4.5 miles per kWh in Eco mode. However, the vehicle's handling was criticized, particularly the lack of one-pedal driving and the front wheelspin issue during acceleration.

The 2026 Land Rover Range Rover Sport offered three powertrains, each with two states of tune. The standard engine was a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six, producing 355 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. The Dynamic SE trim added an electric supercharger, increasing output to 395 hp and 406 lb-ft. A plug-in hybrid variant offered up to 53 miles of gas-free driving and a total output of 454 hp. The BMW-built V8 engine, available in higher trims, delivered 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, while the SV trims boasted 626 hp. The Range Rover Sport's fuel economy varied, with the base six-cylinder achieving 22 mpg combined and the V8 dropping to 19 mpg. The vehicle's adaptive dampers and air springs provided exceptional handling and off-road capabilities, with the SV Carbon's handling rivaling high-performance SUVs. The brakes were praised for their effectiveness and pedal feel.

The 2026 Toyota bZ, built on a skateboard-style EV platform, offered 8.1 inches of ground clearance, making it easy to enter and exit. The front seats featured standard height adjustment and eight-way power adjustment, providing comfort and support. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard, with ventilated seats available in the Limited trim. The bZ lacked a traditional glove compartment but compensated with ample storage options, including a large bin under the center armrest and a sizable tray beneath the console. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed generous legroom, though foot space was limited. The cargo area offered 27.7 cubic feet of space, with an underfloor storage well providing additional room.

The 2026 Land Rover Range Rover Sport provided ample space for passengers, with heated and electrically reclining seats in all outboard positions. The front row featured 20-way power adjustment, ventilation, and memory. The vehicle offered 31.9 cubic feet of cargo space, with a cargo divider available for added convenience. However, the 53 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded was considered small for a midsize SUV. The narrow rear door opening was another drawback, attributed to the vehicle's large wheels and suspension components. The Range Rover Sport's towing capacity was impressive, with the standard model rated at 7,716 pounds. The lack of physical controls was a significant issue, as most functions were hidden in the touchscreen interface.

The 2026 Toyota bZ featured a 7-inch digital driver display and a new 14-inch touchscreen infotainment display. While the driver display was criticized for its placement and readability, the infotainment system was generally user-friendly. However, the lack of a home screen and low-contrast colors were noted as drawbacks. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with several connected service plans available. The Drive Connect feature powered the native navigation system and the Intelligent Assistant, which performed well in testing.

The 2026 Land Rover Range Rover Sport's 13.1-inch display was adept at managing occasional features, such as the Wade Sensing app and 4x4i app. Everyday tech, including Apple CarPlay and the factory navigation, worked well. The instrument panel offered configurable layouts, and the surround-view cameras provided clear images. The Meridian Signature stereo was praised, though it fell short of the full-size Range Rover's system.

The 2026 Toyota bZ came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which included features like high-beam assist, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Proactive Driving Assist provided additional safety, and the Limited trim offered Traffic Jam Assist and other advanced features. However, the adaptive cruise control's response was inconsistent, and the lack of a touch-sensitive steering wheel was a drawback. The IIHS gave the bZ's front-crash avoidance tech a Good rating, but the headlights received a Poor rating.

The 2026 Land Rover Range Rover Sport included standard safety features such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system. However, it lacked front knee airbags and other advanced features. No U.S. crash-test ratings were available, but the Euro NCAP awarded it a five-star rating.