Toyota has introduced a new generation of its popular SUV, the RAV4, in 2026 with extensive changes to design, technology and powertrains. The car will now be offered exclusively with hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, and there will no longer be any gasoline-only versions.
Design and Typography
The 2026 RAV4 will be offered in three design categories:
Core Design: Includes LE, XLE and Limited trims, which come with a standard hybrid powertrain. New Toyota USA
Rugged Design: The Woodland trim, with a focus on off-road capabilities, features additional LED lights and a standard roof rack.
Sport Design: The SE, XSE and GR Sport trims feature a sportier design and special features, including 20-inch wheels and a rear spoiler.
Driving forces and performance
Hybrid model: Equipped with a fifth-generation 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, with 226 horsepower in the front-wheel drive version and 236 horsepower in the all-wheel drive version.
Plug-in hybrid model (PHEV): With two electric motors and a high-capacity battery, it offers 320 horsepower and a range of 50 miles (about 80 km) in all-electric mode.
Technology and facilities
- Displays: 10.5-inch central touchscreen and 12.3-inch cluster display on all models, with the option to upgrade to a 12.9-inch display on some models.
Safety systems: Equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 safety suite with features such as adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking.
Charging system: 11 kW charger for all models, with fast charging capability on XSE and Woodland models via CCS port.
Cargo capacity
- Four-wheel drive models: 3,500 lb. payload capacity. Front-wheel drive models: Increased payload capacity from 1,500 lb. to 1,750 lb.
Price and release time
The exact price of the 2026 RAV4 has not yet been announced, but it is expected to start at around $30,000. The car is scheduled to go on sale in late 2025. With these changes, the 2026 Toyota RAV4 will be an attractive option for buyers as an advanced hybrid SUV with a modern design and a variety of features.
