2026 Toyota
RAV4 Preview

The best-selling crossover in the U.S., the Toyota RAV4, is turning the page with a dramatic redesign for the 2026 model year. Toyota has completely reimagined this stalwart compact with a fresh look, upgraded technology, enhanced performance, and a fully electrified lineup. That’s right – every ‘26 RAV4 will be either a hybrid or plug-in hybrid (PHEV), giving buyers the perfect balance of power and efficiency. It’s expected to arrive at dealerships by the end of 2025.

Toyota has also introduced three distinct style directions for the beloved RAV4: Core, Rugged, and Sport. These new designs allow the RAV4 to better fit the needs and lifestyles of a wider range of drivers, from the everyday commuter to the weekend adventurer, with specialties in advanced tech, all-terrain capability, or performance.

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2026 Toyota RAV4 interior seats

Trim Levels, Powertrains, and Performance

The sixth-generation RAV4 will be offered in both hybrid and PHEV form. The fifth-generation hybrid system will pair a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with two electric motors to put out 226 horsepower in front-wheel drive models and 236 hp in all-wheel drive versions. Meanwhile, the PHEV will be equipped with a new sixth-generation system that delivers a remarkable 320 hp, with a manufacturer estimated all-electric range of 50 miles – an increase of 20 percent compared to the outgoing RAV4 Prime.

The PHEV’s trims will include SE, XSE, Woodland, and the debuting GR SPORT, which is exclusive to the plug-in variant. All PHEVs will come with AWD, and certain versions will be able to tow up to 3,500 pounds. Fast-charging capability via DC Level 3 infrastructure will also be included with the XSE and Woodland grades, enabling a 10 to 80 percent charge in approximately 30 minutes, according to Toyota.

A RAV4 for Every Type of Driver

The ‘26 RAV4 will be categorized into three design identities: Core, Rugged, and Sport. The Core will provide a clean and refined experience, with body-color grille accents and the brand’s signature hammerhead front end. It will be available for the LE, XLE, and Limited trims. The Rugged (available for the Woodland trim only) is all about off-road excitement, featuring a split upper and lower grille, Rigid Industries LED lighting, an increased ride height, all-terrain tires, and a 3D Multi-Terrain Monitor. The Sport puts forward a more athletic aesthetic with blue interior stitching, available two-tone paint, and unique design elements that distinguish the SE and XSE from the high-performance GR SPORT. Each variant will get special wheels ranging from 17 to 20 inches, giving every RAV4 a customized look.

Next-Generation Safety

Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 will come standard across the ‘26 RAV4 lineup, bringing an updated suite of advanced driver-assist technologies. More details will emerge closer to its release, but expect these systems to build on a foundation of proven safety tech like adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, and road sign assist.

2026 Toyota RAV4 cockpit

Advanced Technology and Interior Features

The ‘26 RAV4 will debut Toyota’s Arene software system, offering advanced over-the-air updates and an intuitive digital experience. Most trims will get a customizable 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a touchscreen infotainment system ranging from 10.5 to 12.9 inches, depending on the trim. The system will include wireless Android Auto, wireless Apple CarPlay, dual Bluetooth hands-free phone pairing, a native Voice Assistant, and built-in navigation. Select trims will also offer a head-up display and a premium nine-speaker JBL audio system. What’s more, the handsome cabin has been thoughtfully designed with improved materials, smarter storage solutions, and available shift-by-wire toggle controls.

** Price(s) include(s) all costs to be paid by a consumer including $399 documentation fee, except for licensing costs, registration fees, and taxes.