Toyota unveiled its new RAV4 to the world on May 21, with plans to launch the model in Japan before the end of FY2025.
The RAV4 had its beginnings in 1994, when sport utility vehicles (SUVs) were positioned as off-road vehicles. It pioneered the crossover SUV genre for both on-and off-road driving. Since then, the RAV4 has evolved into a beloved model around the world. For five generations, it has continued to meet the changing lifestyles of the times.
For its sixth generation, the RAV4 will be available in three new designs that include Core, Rugged, and Sport styles – among which include a new-look Woodland grade and the RAV4 GR SPORT model. The 2026 RAV4 also joins Toyota’s growing list of exclusively electrified models, as it will be available in a choice of Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) or Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) powertrains.
RAV4 also launches new technologies for Toyota, including the Arene software development platform, a new version of the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, and updates to the Toyota Safety Sense active safety suite.
Two Great Powertrains with Available Front- or All-Wheel Drive
The 2026 RAV4 HEV debuts Toyota’s fifth-generation Hybrid system on an SUV model. Powered by a 2.5-L, 4-cylinder engine with the fifth-generation hybrid system, it has improvements to the transaxle, power control unit, battery, and other components, all of which contribute to its enhanced motor output.
A new Plug-in Hybrid system will also debut on RAV4. It will have a 2.5-L, 4-cylinder engine with two electric motors and high-capacity traction battery. For the new system, Toyota has adopted silicon carbide semiconductors in the front axle to achieve miniaturization and high efficiency. This change, in combination with the larger battery, has led to the increase in range of up to 150 km (93 miles).
DC fast charging is also available, with the XSE and Woodland grades being capable of high-speed charging through an equipped CCS charging port. The SE and GR SPORT PHEV models will be equipped with a J1772 charging port. Charging at home or with standard public chargers can also be quicker with up to an 11-kW AC onboard charger available.
An increase in towing capacity on specific AWD grades adds to RAV4’s overall utility. 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.
A New Generation Inside and Out
When RAV4 was first launched in the U.S. for the 1996 model year, it was a sign of what was to come for the SUV segment. Built on a unibody platform that was shared with the Corolla sedan, it tapped into a unique need for many drivers and offered easy handling with functional utility. Since then, the RAV4 has evolved through five generations and changed to fit life’s adventures for customers around the world.
The all-new sixth-generation 2026 RAV4 keeps the model’s agile and functional spirit rolling. Built on the Toyota New Generation Architecture-K (TNGA-K) platform, the newest RAV4 will receive structural rigidity increases due to reinforcement of the frame joints and the suspension mounting points, both benefiting handling and ride comfort. It also adopts a high-damping adhesive that reduces micro-vibrations and road noise.
The exterior design highlights RAV4’s SUV proportions, with large tires, an elevated ride, and highly usable rear cargo area. Whether it’s a Core, Rugged, or Sport model, each adapt the Toyota hammerhead front-end for a strong, modern take on RAV4. From the side, its fender flares give it a wide stance and chiseled door panels ascend to a stout rear. Stylish new LED signature taillights give the functional rear hatch a tech-forward feel, while also adding a sense of width. Additional details like front and rear spoilers, different trim colors, and wheel treatments individualize RAV4’s style across the grades.
The 2026 RAV4’s interior prioritizes functionality, aiming for a harmonious blend of comfort and user-friendly technology. The center stack groups various functions together, like the touchscreen display, drive mode selection, and storage for a smartly organized space while the center console combines the shifter, cup holder with a removable divider, and arm rest/storage bin with a two-way closure. On select grades, the cockpit adds Toyota’s new shift-by-wire system, with a minimalist toggle switch that has intuitive operation and brings a futuristic feel to the new RAV4.
New Tech
The new RAV4 will be equipped with Arene, an all-new software development platform created by Woven by Toyota. The introduction of Arene is Toyota’s first step toward fully software-defined vehicles. The platform will be the foundation for our most advanced safety, security and connectivity technologies and will create new opportunities to enhance features for our customers on a global scale.
The 2026 RAV4 will also launch the newest version of the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, which is enabled by Arene. Paired with the touchscreen display, the system will have standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, and simultaneous dual Bluetooth® phone connectivity. The new system changes-up the user experience with a new home button that is always displayed regardless of whether it’s being operated in the native system, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The native Voice Assistant is also improved with quicker response times. Native map and navigation functionality will also be integrated into the digital gauge cluster.
The Toyota RAV4 will also be the first Toyota model to receive the Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 (TSS 4.0) system, also powered by the Arene software development platform. The new version of Toyota’s standard active safety suite will have updates to its hardware and detection capabilities. Additional details will be available closer to the on-sale date.
