The Toyota RAV4 has long been a pivotal model in the SUV market, and describing it as merely "popular" would significantly downplay its influence. It not only helped shape the modern concept of the SUV but has also become the best-selling non-pickup vehicle in the United States. Its global appeal is equally impressive, consistently ranking among the top-selling vehicles worldwide. Now entering its sixth generation, the RAV4 has undergone a substantial refresh. Rather than introducing an entirely new model, Toyota has chosen to refine and enhance the existing platform, much like what they did with the recent Camry update. The company plans to gradually release the updated RAV4 in over 180 countries and regions across the globe.
This latest version of the RAV4 still utilizes the TNGA-K platform, though it has been enhanced with several structural upgrades to improve rigidity and driving dynamics. Visually, the design has evolved with a sharper and more modern appearance, featuring angular LED headlights, larger air intakes, and a body-colored grille. The side profile maintains the signature RAV4 silhouette, though with slightly more sculpted lines and redesigned alloy wheels in sizes ranging from 17 to 20 inches, depending on the trim. The back has also been updated, boasting a wider rear light cluster with a smoked finish, a boxier tailgate, and an enlarged spoiler. Sportier versions like the GR Sport and rugged variants like the Woodland add exclusive elements such as a prominent rear wing, unique grilles, higher ground clearance, and more aggressive styling.
Buyers will be able to select from three general style packages: Core, Sport, and Rugged. Each category includes various trim levels. For instance, the Core offers LE, XLE, and Limited trims; the Sport includes SE, XSE, and the all-new GR Sport; while the Rugged introduces the Woodland trim. The paint palette includes returning options alongside new shades like Meteor Shower, Everest, and Storm Cloud. The Woodland gets its own Urban Rock finish, while the GR Sport is available in an eye-catching Supersonic Red with a contrasting black roof.
Inside, the cabin has been thoroughly modernized with a strong emphasis on functionality and technology. The centerpiece is a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, accompanied by a floating infotainment screen available in 10.5- or 12.9-inch sizes. Toyota has introduced its new Arene software platform, which supports the latest Toyota Audio Multimedia system and the advanced Safety Sense 4.0 suite. Climate controls have gone digital and are now permanently embedded in the lower part of the central display. Storage has been improved with a reworked center console, and cargo capacity is slightly larger, increasing from 733 to 749 liters.
Material choices in the cabin range from fabric and SofTex to Ultrasuede, depending on the trim. Premium variants feature upscale additions such as all-weather mats, unique color schemes like Mineral for the Woodland trim, and aluminum sport pedals in the GR Sport. Music lovers can upgrade to a JBL nine-speaker sound system, replacing the standard six-speaker setup.
Under the hood, the new RAV4 has fully transitioned to electrified powertrains, eliminating traditional gasoline-only options. It is now available exclusively as a hybrid (HEV) or plug-in hybrid (PHEV), both powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The hybrid version now delivers 226 hp with front-wheel drive and 236 hp with all-wheel drive—an increase over previous versions. The PHEV model produces 320 hp and features an increased electric-only range of 80 kilometers, thanks to an upgraded battery and improved electronics. Select trims now support DC fast charging with a CCS connector, allowing a charge from 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes. Towing capacity starts at 794 kg for front-wheel-drive models and reaches up to 1,588 kg for select AWD configurations.
Set to debut in U.S. showrooms by late 2025, the 2026 Toyota RAV4 is expected to start at approximately \$33,000 to \$35,000 for the base Core trim. Higher-end trims like the GR Sport could approach the \$50,000 mark, though final pricing will be announced closer to the vehicle’s official release.