Toyota is preparing for a global rollout of its latest RAV4, which will be sold in over 180 countries and regions. However, while the vehicle will be widely available, not all markets will receive the same powertrain configurations. This disparity isn't due to Toyota favoring certain countries, but rather the result of differing legal and environmental regulations across regions. For example, in North America, consumers will have access to the most powerful version of the RAV4—a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) with an all-wheel-drive system that produces an impressive 320 horsepower.
In contrast, European buyers will receive a slightly less potent version of the same PHEV, generating 300 horsepower. When asked about this performance gap, Toyota explained that the European variant had to be detuned to meet stricter regulatory standards. Robert Tickner, Head of Corporate & Product Communications at Toyota Europe, stated that the adjustment was made to comply with homologation and emissions rules that differ from those in the United States. These regulatory constraints affect not only the plug-in hybrid models but also the full hybrid versions available in European markets.
For instance, the all-wheel-drive full hybrid RAV4 in the United States delivers 236 horsepower. Meanwhile, its European counterpart is rated at only 188 horsepower. Similarly, the front-wheel-drive hybrid version in the U.S. puts out 226 horsepower, compared to 181 horsepower in Europe. This pattern demonstrates a consistent trend where European models are less powerful than their American equivalents.
On a more positive note for European consumers, the region will receive a unique front-wheel-drive variant of the plug-in hybrid RAV4, which is not available in North America. This version produces 264 horsepower, offering a somewhat more affordable option with solid performance. Additionally, there are no gasoline-only RAV4 models available in either region, and diesel powertrains are not being offered—continuing the trend from the previous generation. A fully electric version is also not expected, as Toyota plans to meet that demand with its upcoming 2026 bZ electric SUV.
Despite the variations in power, performance figures remain strong across the board. The European all-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid version accelerates from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 5.8 seconds, making it the fastest RAV4 currently planned for sale. The North American model may be slightly quicker, given its extra horsepower. In terms of range, the PHEV version is expected to lead the lineup, with a claimed total distance of 1,350 km under Japan’s JC08 cycle—achievable with a full tank of gas and a fully charged 22.7-kWh battery.
The new RAV4 is scheduled for global release before the end of the year. It enters the market with a strong legacy, aiming to build on the success of its predecessors, which have collectively sold over 15 million units over the past 31 years.