The 2026 C-HR was expected to be the $30,000 EV everyone was waiting for from Toyota. Although it’s a bit more expensive than anticipated, Toyota does offer an EV starting around that price.
Does Toyota offer an EV for $30,000?
Toyota is bringing the C-HR back as an EV this year. Since the now-retired gas-powered C-HR was one of Toyota’s most affordable SUVs, the new electric version was expected to start at around $30,000 to $35,000, positioned below the bZ (formerly bZ4X).
Well, that won’t be the case. The 2026 C-HR is priced from $37,000, which is even more expensive than the bZ, starting at $34,900.
Although it’s based on the same platform, the C-HR is about 6.7″ shorter than the bZ with a smaller wheelbase. So, why is it more expensive?
The only reason we can think of is that the C-HR comes with standard all-wheel drive (AWD), while the 2026 bZ is also available in front-wheel drive (FWD).
The cheapest 2026 bZ XLE model, which starts at under $35,000, is FWD. Upgrading to an AWD powertrain costs an extra $5,000, making it more expensive than the C-HR.
Toyota upgraded the electric SUV, formerly known as the bZ4X, in the areas that matter most. The 2026 bZ now offers up to 314 miles of range (XLE FWD Plus model with the 74.7 kWh battery), a modern interior and exterior design, and a built-in NACS port to recharge at Tesla Superchargers.
The XLE FWD, powered by a 57.7 kWh battery, offers up to 236 miles of range. Meanwhile, the 2026 C-HR is exclusively available with the larger 74.7 kWh battery, providing a range of up to 290 miles.
Both feature Toyota’s updated interior (2026 bZ on the left, 2026 C-HR on the right) and latest Multimedia infotainment system that includes a larger 14″ touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
According to online auto research firm CarsDirect, even with AWD, the 2026 bZ is still likely more affordable. For a 72-month loan, the financing rate for the 2026 C-HR is 8.61%. Although it drops slightly for a 60-month option, the rate is still relatively high at 8.22%.
In comparison, Toyota is offering 0% financing on the 2026 bZ for up to 72 months, plus a $6,000 cash bonus that includes the base XLE trim.
If you’re looking to buy, you can take advantage of a $5,000 customer cash bonus, bringing the 2026 bZ’s starting price below $30,000.
2026 Toyota bZ trim |
Battery | Range | Starting Price* |
| XLE FWD | 57.7 kWh | 236 miles | $34,900 |
| XLE FWD Plus | 74.7 kWh | 314 miles | $37,900 |
| XLE AWD | 74.7 kWh | 288 miles | $39,900 |
| Limited FWD | 74.7 kWh | 299 miles | $43,300 |
| Limited AWD | 74.7 kWh | 278 miles | $45,300 |
The 2026 C-HR will be available in two trims: SE and XSE, starting from $37,000. Upgrading to the XSE model gains 20″ gunmetal-finished wheels, SofTex and synthetic suede-trimmed seats, a Digital Rearview Mirror, and a Panoramic View Monitor.
For those looking for something a little bigger and more rugged, the 2026 bZ Woodland will be available soon, starting at $45,300.
With the new C-HR and bZ Woodland models on their way to dealerships, Toyota is offering clearance deals on the 2026 bZ. Monthly leases start at $289 per month, or you can choose 0% APR financing plus an extra $6,000 cash bonus. You can click here to find deals on the 2026 Toyota bZ near you.
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