Toyota bZ EV's driver monitoring system criticized for excessive alerts

Key facts

• The 2026 Toyota bZ EV features a unique, angular design and a comfortable, efficient driving experience.
• The vehicle's driver-attention monitoring system, which uses sensors in the steering wheel, frequently issues alerts for perceived inattention.
• Passengers noted the car's quiet ride and comfort, even on rough roads.
• The bZ XLE Plus model starts at $37,900 with an EPA-estimated range of 314 miles.
• The S-Flow climate system, designed to direct air only to occupied seats, did not consistently recognize rear-seat passengers.

The 2026 Toyota bZ EV has been reviewed, highlighting its comfortable and efficient electric vehicle experience, reminiscent of popular gas-hybrid SUVs like the RAV4. Despite praise for its ride quality, quiet cabin, and passenger comfort, the vehicle is criticized for its overly sensitive and frequently chiming driver-attention monitoring system. This system, designed to track driver focus, often issues unnecessary warnings, leading to passenger amusement and driver frustration. Additionally, the S-Flow climate control system occasionally failed to recognize rear-seat occupants. The bZ XLE Plus model, starting at $37,900, offers an EPA-estimated range of 314 miles and achieved an average efficiency of 4.1 miles per kilowatt-hour during testing.