5 Must-Know Facts About the 2026 Toyota RAV4
The thoroughly revamped 2026 Toyota RAV4 will exclusively come as either a full hybrid or a plug-in hybrid model. It introduces new sporty versions for both road and trail use, along with advanced tech and cutting-edge safety systems. Below are the top five highlights of this entirely renewed RAV4.
In 2026, the Toyota RAV4 will be available exclusively with electric powertrains.
Beneath the surface, one of the major changes for the 2026 Toyota RAV4 is the removal of the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine. It will now be available exclusively with either hybrid or plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains as options.
The hybrid engine has the same displacement of 2.4 liters, and for the first time, hybrid models will feature front-wheel drive. Additionally, an all-wheel-drive option will be available. In terms of power output, front-wheel-drive versions will generate 226 horsepower, whereas all-wheel-drive variants will offer 10 additional horsepower, reaching up to 236 horsepower.
For the PHEV, Toyota plans to boost the all-electric range to 50 miles, an increase from 42 miles, by employing "silicon carbide semiconductors at the front axle for size reduction and improved efficiency," along with installing a bigger battery.
The RAV4 PHEV will also be equipped with a J1772 charging port. This will allow for faster charging at home or at public, non-Tesla public charging stations with up to an 11-kW AC onboard charger.
The PHEV doesn’t fall short, delivering a combined output of 320 horsepower from its setup involving a 2.4-liter engine paired with a battery.
The new trims consist of three distinct styles encompassing seven different tiers.
The updated RAV4 will showcase a fresh "hammerhead" front-end design, according to Toyota’s description, with exterior styling emphasizing its SUV characteristics. It maintains the same external measurements as the previous version.
The wheel options will differ based on whether you choose the 17-, 18-, or 20-inch sizes, which depend on the trim level.
Inside, the cabin has undergone redesigns to enhance usability with bigger displays and consolidated user functionalities.
To simplify ordering for both customers and dealers, Toyota is consolidating various trim levels into groups.
Toyota is dividing the seven levels into styles named Core, Rugged, and Sport.
For instance, LE, XLE, and Limited are now part of the Core group lineup. The Rugged series introduces a new trim level named Woodland, while the Sport range includes XE, XSE, and GR-Sport. Notably, both the Woodland and GR-Sport trims make their debut with the 2026 models.
The available engines will differ based on the trim level, with the PHEV variant extending to four configurations: SE, XSE, Woodland, and GR-Sport. The hybrid powertrain option is now provided across six levels: LE, XLE, Limited, SE, XSE, and Woodland. For front-wheel-drive hybrid versions, you'll have options such as LE, XLE, and SE.
For external hues, Meteor Shower, Everest, and Storm Cloud have been added to the regular palette. Popular choices such as Ice Cap, Wind Chill Pearl, Midnight Black Metallic, Ruby Flare Pearl, and Blueprint remain part of the updated model range. The Woodland trim offers a distinctive Urban Rock exterior shade exclusively. Additionally, bi-color painting schemes persist from previous versions but now include a fresh pairing: Meteor Shower paired with a black rooftop option for both XSE models and the distinct GR-Sport variant which features a one-of-a-kind Supersonic Red with a contrasting black top.
Inside, you'll have the option between Softex or Ultrasuede leather for the upscale trim levels. The Woodland variant includes interior accents designed to evoke the ambiance of an outdoor cabin along with standard all-weather floor mats. In addition, the GR Sport model comes equipped with GR emblems on both the front headrests and steering wheel, alongside paddle shifters and aluminum sports pedals.
GR Sport incorporates GAZOO Racing's expertise.
In 2026, a new Toyota RAV4 GR Sport model will be unveiled as part of an alliance with Toyota GAZOO Racing.
This more aggressive looking RAV4 with a GR-matrix grille, front and rear spoilers and wide-tread summer tires riding on unique 20-inch wheels.
This model features a PHEV drivetrain with AWD, along with a GR-tuned suspension and power steering, and improved structural stiffness.
Woodland is meant for tackling the trails
For enthusiasts of outdoor activities, the RAV4 Woodland is bound to make an impression. It comes equipped with a moderately elevated ground clearance, a dual-tone upper and lower black grill, along with built-in Ridgid Industries LED lights.
This RAV4 stands about a half inch higher thanks to the standard all-terrain tries, has standard raised roof rails with crossbars and a 1 1/4 -inch rear activity mount for hauling items like mountain bikes.
It will come with options for an all-wheel drive system along with either a hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain.
New technology abounds
One significant update passengers will observe is the increased screen sizes within the cabin along with advanced technologies such as an updated version of Toyota SafetySense 4.0 and the latest Toyota Audio Multimedia system.
First, a new, slim 10.5-inch or available 12.9-inch touchscreen will now include digital HVAC controls integrated along the bottom of the touchscreen display. The 10.5-inch is larger than the outgoing 8-inch touchscreen on the lower grades and standard on LE, XLE, SE and Woodland. For the Limited, XSE and GR-Sport, the 12.9-inch screen is standard.
The driver gets a new, standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster with customizable options and integrated multimedia information. There is also a head-up display available on Limited and XSE grades.
For the touchscreen display, the new Toyota software will have standard wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto compatibility and simultaneous dual Bluetooth phone connectivity. There is also a new home button displayed whether you are on the native system or on Apple Carplay or Android Auto. The native Voice Assistant has been improved as well as native map and navigation.
Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 is being released as well. The new version will have updates to the hardware and detection capabilities that Toyota has yet to release details on yet.
A nine-speaker JBL premium audio system will be an option, whereas a six-speaker audio setup comes as standard.
The pricing details, estimated fuel efficiency, and release date will be disclosed later in the year.
Our perspective on the 2026 Toyota RAV4
The engines perform well with increased power output and improved fuel efficiency. Hybrids have been established for some time and shouldn’t cause concerns regarding dependability. While the Woodland and GR Sport editions are expected to be highlighted by Toyota, I anticipate they might not sell very briskly. This model appeals mainly to those seeking an affordable SUV suited for a modest household or everyday use. In my view, the primary versions of the vehicle should remain the top choices among buyers.
Including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard features is a significant advantage, and finally having a home button matters greatly. However, the digital HVAC controls? Not for me. They’re too distracting and perform far worse than traditional physical buttons in all the vehicles I've tested.
Beauty is in the eye of the observer. I view these changes as a combination of enhancements and drawbacks. I'm withholding my ultimate verdict until I have the chance to experience it firsthand and take it for a test drive.
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