Toyota is introducing the all-new 2026 Toyota RAV4. The biggest, though not entirely unexpected, news: it's only available with an electrified powertrain. It also rolls out some Toyota firsts. It introduces the U.S. market’s first-ever GR Sport Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) model, and also launches Toyota’s new Arene software development platform, which enables Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 and a new generation of the Toyota Audio Multimedia System.
The next-gen RAV4 gets improved handling and ride comfort thanks to its Toyota New Generation Architecture-K (TNGA-K) platform which Toyota says increases structural rigidity due to reinforcement of the frame joints and the suspension mounting points. It also gets quieter, too, thanks to adopting high-damping adhesive that reduces micro-vibrations and road noise.
New exterior design features include a newly adopted hammerhead front-end and LED signature taillights. Front and rear spoilers, different trim colors, and wheel treatments individualize RAV4’s style across the grades. In the cabin, a new, customizable 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster with integrated navigation is standard across the lineup. A new, slim 10.5-inch or available 12.9-inch touchscreen display gives the cabin a modern look. Select grades receive Toyota’s new shift-by-wire transmission.
The new RAV4 will be equipped with Arene, an all-new software development platform created by Woven by Toyota. Toyota says the platform will be the foundation for its most advanced safety, security and connectivity technologies. This includes the launch the newest version of the Toyota Audio Multimedia system with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ and improved native Voice Assistant with quicker response times.
The Toyota RAV4 also debuts the new Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 (TSS 4.0) system, also powered by the Arene. The new version of Toyota’s standard active safety suite will have updates to its hardware and detection capabilities.
The new RAV4 comes as a PHEV and HEV. PHEV models feature a newly developed Plug-in Hybrid System that combines a high-capacity drive battery and high-output charger compatible with Toyota’s latest sixth-generation hybrid. The PHEV powertrain delivers with up-to 320 hp output (up 18 hp over the outgoing system) and 20% more all-electric drive range of 50 miles (manufacturer estimated, 42 miles previously). The PHEV powertrain is available on four grades for 2026: Woodland, GR Sport, SE and XSE. XSE and Woodland will be capable of DC Fast Charging from 10%-80% in approximately 30 minutes.
RAV4 HEV models move to 5th generation hybrid system and boost output to 236 hp on AWD models (219 combined system net hp previously) and 226 hp on FWD models (23 hp improvement over the prior generation’s 203 hp) – with FWD coming to RAV4 Hybrid for the first time.
The new RAV4 will be available in Core, Sport, and Rugged styles across seven grades, including the new GR Sport and a new-look Woodland trim.
Core: The 2026 RAV4 Core design combines a sleek, paint-matched grille, with Toyota’s signature hammerhead front end for a modern take on RAV4. Wide overfenders with black cladding and an ascending belt line with chiseled body panels complement its SUV proportions. Wheel combinations vary, with 17-, 18-, or 20-inch wheels available, depending on the grade. Core models include the well-equipped LE, XLE, and Limited grades.
Rugged: The Rugged design is exclusive to the outdoor-inspired Woodland model, which now becomes a standalone grade to the RAV4 lineup. For the Rugged design, the peak of the hammerhead front end is slightly raised and its black, split upper and lower grille with integrated Rigid Industries LED lighting give it an adventurous look.
The model is half inch higher due to standard All-Terrain tires, has standard raised roof rails with crossbars, and a 1¼ -inch rear activity mount for travel-ready versatility. The Woodland grade, available in HEV or PHEV with AWD standard, features a higher ride height, all-terrain tires, split grille, and more.
The Woodland model also introduces an all-new available Urban Rock exterior paint color along with a new Mineral interior hue.
Sport: The RAV4 GR SPORT is the top-range Sport model. Designed with motorsports input from the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing engineering division, it prioritizes handling, with a GR-tuned suspension and power steering, enhanced body rigidity, and summer tires on unique 20-inch wheels with increased offset. It will be exclusively available with a PHEV powertrain.
Exterior features include a GR Functional MATRIX grille, along with front and rear wing-type spoilers for aggressive style. The XSE and SE grades round out the Sport designs. They will be available as hybrid or plug-in hybrids with a choice of FWD or AWD depending on grade and have up-to 20-inch wheels, blue interior stitching, and available two-tone paint.
On the XSE and GR SPORT grades, perforated BRIN•NAUB® microsuede and SofTex-trimmed seating with colorful accents add a dynamic feel.
The RAV4 GR SPORT model adds paddle shifters, aluminum sport pedals and GR logos to the front headrests and steering wheel.
The HEV XLE, Woodland, SE, XSE, Limited and PHEV SE, XSE, and Woodland grades with AWD, will be capable of towing up to 3,500 pounds. All FWD models and the LE AWD model will have a 1,750-pound towing capacity.
New 2026 Toyota RAV4 models are expected to start arriving at CarPro Toyota dealerships across the U.S. later this year. Pricing will be announced closer to its on-sale date.
Photo Credit: Toyota.