The Next Adventure Begins: 2026 RAV4 Arrives this Winter
The Next Adventure Begins: 2026 RAV4 Arrives this Winter |
| [22-October-2025] |
PLANO, Texas, Oct. 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- For nearly 30 years, the Toyota RAV4 has led the way for the small SUV segment. Today, it is the best-selling small SUV in America, and since its arrival in the U.S. in 1996, over 6.4 million RAV4 models have made their way on to the road. Now, the next generation is set to bring an all-new adventure, with new interior and exterior styling, the latest Toyota Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid powertrains, technology updates, and improvements to comfort and handling.
The 2026 RAV4 will come in three distinct exterior styles that include core, rugged, and sport designs. The core design includes LE, XLE Premium, and Limited grades. The rugged design comes on the Woodland grade. The SE, XSE and first-ever GR SPORT model make up the sport grades. The chassis has also been modified, with added frame rigidity and new suspension components for a smooth, easy-to-handle RAV4. Over the years, the popularity of RAV4's electrified Hybrid and PHEV models has continued to grow, representing over half of RAV4 sales in 2024. For the 2026 model year, Toyota will move to a 100% electrified lineup, with a choice of RAV4 Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid models. Both powertrains offer a combination of efficient, fun, and capable driving. Hybrid models will be available in a choice of Front- or Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (FWD or AWD), depending on grade. PHEV models will have AWD standard. Hybrid AWD models have a 236 net combined system horsepower (hp), up from 219 on the prior generation; and FWD models have a 226 net combined system hp, a jump of 23 hp over the outgoing gas FWD model. Fuel economy climbs as well, with up to a 44 MPG manufacturer combined rating (FWD). Engine torque is 163 lb.-ft. for either FWD and AWD drivetrain; electric motor torque (MG2) is 153 lb.-ft. For Plug-in Hybrid models, a blend of powerful all-electric driving or efficient hybrid operation makes for a winning combination. Toyota's 6th generation Plug-in Hybrid powertrain sees a 23% increase in manufacturer estimated all-electric driving range, with up to 52 miles. The system also increases output, with a 324 net combined system hp (a 22-hp increase) while also gaining MPG, earning up to a manufacturer estimated 41 MPG combined rating (a +3 MPG increase for the SE, XSE PHEV grades). RAV4 will also be the first Toyota model to have a new version of the Toyota Audio Multimedia system. Developed with customer feedback by Toyota's U.S.-based Connected Technology team, the new system boasts a faster, more responsive voice assistant; a new customizable home menu; and Toyota's first application of onboard 5G connectivity. Every RAV4 model will also have the latest Toyota Safety Sense (TSS 4.0) system standard, which updates its detection capabilities for systems like Pre-Collision Detection and Lane Tracing Assist. RAV4 also launches the new Arene Software Developed Vehicle platform, an all-new software development kit created by Woven by Toyota, that serves as the foundation for RAV4's safety features and the new multimedia system. The 2026 RAV4 Hybrid models are expected to start arriving at U.S. Toyota dealerships in December of this year. The starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) will be in the low $30,000's (Hybrid FWD model). Full pricing will be available at a later date. The 2026 RAV4 PHEV models are expected to start arriving at U.S. Toyota dealerships in the spring of 2026. RAV4 Refined 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 2026 RAV4's new exterior design highlights RAV4's SUV proportions, with large tires, an elevated ride height, and upright rear cargo area. The Toyota hammerhead front-end, contoured hood, and angular fenders create a strong stance and modern look for the RAV4. From the side, RAV4's flat roof line and chiseled door panels visually 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 when viewed from the rear. Additional details like front and rear spoilers, different trim colors, and wheel treatments individualize RAV4's style across the grades. On the inside, a new center stack groups various functions together—such as 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 reversible 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. An all-new 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster is standard, providing the driver with customizable settings and integrated multimedia information. The layout is presented on a bright LCD screen with clear contrast and the flexibility for the user to tailor displayed information to their preference. The screen has a light-absorbing matte finish, intended to minimize glare in direct sunlight. This new gauge cluster also has a modern, free-floating design that's easily viewed through the steering wheel. A head up display is also available on the hybrid Limited and PHEV XSE grades. Seating across the grades is designed to complement the RAV4's three different looks with a range of colors, materials, and accents, creating a balance of style and comfort across the lineup. Functionality is also built in, with a newly designed rear seatback that can be folded flat to maximize cargo space and a redesigned available hands-free power liftgate with expanded detection area to help ease access. Exterior color options also bring standout style. Across the RAV4 lineup, there will be 10 available colors, with four that are new to RAV4. The Woodland grade will have an all-new, grade exclusive Urban Rock exterior paint color available, while Meteor Shower, Everest, and Storm Cloud colors also join the RAV4 color palette. Favorites like Ice Cap, Wind Chill Pearl, Midnight Black Metallic, Ruby Flare Pearl, and Blueprint will continue for the new generation. Available two-tone paint options are also carried forward, like the new combination of Meteor Shower with Black roof on the XSE or GR SPORT's exclusive pairing of Supersonic Red with a Black roof. Built to Drive The 2026 RAV4 models will be built on the Toyota Next Generation Architecture-K (TNGA-K) unibody platform. Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) models will be assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing facilities in Lexington, Kentucky and Ontario (Woodstock & Cambridge), Canada; and Plug-in Hybrid models will be assembled in Japan. The unibody of the sixth generation RAV4 benefits from more rigid front and rear suspension mounting points, as well as reinforcements to the connection points for the front cowl and A-pillar. There are also changes to the shape of the A-pillar door seal, and the sideview mirrors, to help reduce wind noise that can penetrate the cabin. High-damping adhesive was also added to the front and rear footwells, the underfloor, and rear wheelhouse to help further quiet the cabin. Reinforcements were also added to the D-pillar and rear wheelhouse connection points. Overall, the RAV4's unibody changes are designed to minimize body flex while also reducing noise and vibration. The suspension is also re-tuned. The front and rear coil springs were redesigned to reduce friction and help enhance ride comfort, and new shock absorbers with increased friction and lateral force sensitivity are equipped, helps give it a flat, comfortable ride across a wide range of speeds. A new lower suspension arm bushing is intended to reduce vibration and noise in the vehicle. The front stabilizer placement was also optimized to help provide a connected steering feel. The 2026 RAV4 also adds an active front aerodynamic spat that unfolds when the vehicle is at higher speeds and retracts when the vehicle is being driven at low speeds or on rough roads. Ground clearance varies across the lineup, with 8.1-inches of clearance on LE, XLE Premium, SE, and XSE models; 8.5-inches of clearance on the Woodland grade, and 7.5-inches of clearance on the GR SPORT. The 2026 RAV4 also has a new Electronically Controlled Brake System, which is a first for Toyota. This system has a new master cylinder configuration with on-demand pressurization that is intended to give it optimal brake feeling and response. There is also a new Vehicle Braking Posture Control (VBPC) system that uses braking inputs at select wheels that aim to slow the rate of body roll when turning into a corner. The new RAV4 also has a new Cooperative Steering Driving Force Control (CSDFC) system, which actively synchronizes pitch and roll behavior when cornering to help enhance turn-in response. Adventurous Hybrid The 2026 RAV4 Hybrid updates to Toyota's 5th generation hybrid powertrain, with a 2.5L inline-four-cylinder engine (model A25A-FXS) that works with two motor-generators (MG1 and MG2) through a planetary-type continuously variable transmission to power the front wheels. The engine, working in concert with the primary electric motor (MG2), assures responsive performance, while exemplary energy efficiency is achieved by using both electric motors (MG1 and MG2) to charge the lithium-ion traction battery. RAV4 Hybrid AWD equipped models have a dedicated rear electric motor (MGR) to power the Electronic On-Demand AWD system. It has 226 net combined hp on FWD models and 236 net combined hp on AWD models; Rear electric motor torque (MGR) is 89 lb.-ft. The manufacturer estimated city/highway/combined fuel economy ratings are: 48/42/44 (FWD), 46/40/44 (LE AWD), 45/39/42 (XLE Premium AWD), 41/36/39 MPG (Woodland HEV) and 44/39/42 (SE, XSE, Limited AWD). RAV4's fuel efficiency also benefits from the Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB) system, which coordinates operation between the regenerative braking force of the electric motors and the hydraulic braking system force to provide optimal stopping power. This extremely efficient cooperative control helps to maximize fuel economy by proactively using the electric motors to recover as much electrical energy as possible from the regenerative braking system. An active hydraulic booster on the conventional (non-regenerative) braking system improves pedal feel and feedback for the driver. Brake Hold is also standard, and when engaged it is a convenient technology that reduces driver's effort while waiting at a traffic light or while driving in heavy traffic. When the driver presses the accelerator, the Brake Hold releases instantly. Every RAV4 has selectable drive modes, including:
RAV4 Hybrid also has an EV mode, which allows the vehicle to be operated as a pure electric vehicle for short distances at low speed, depending upon certain conditions, such as battery charge level. For example, this mode is useful for operating the vehicle in parking lots or indoor parking garages, for example. Power to the Plug-in Toyota's sixth-generation plug-in hybrid system makes its debut on the 2026 RAV4. Four grades are available for model year 2026, including the SE, XSE, Woodland, and GR SPORT models. The PHEV system is mated to a 2.5-L, 4-cylinder engine with two electric motors (MG1 and MG2), a dedicated rear electric motor (MGR), and a high-capacity traction battery. The system is also designed to help maximize performance. It delivers an impressive 324 net combined horsepower and 172 lb.-ft. of torque (gas engine only). The electric drive motor (MG2) has 203 hp and 201 lb.-ft. of torque; the rear electric drive motor (MGR) has 91 lb.-ft. of torque. Toyota has adopted silicon carbide semiconductors in the front axle to achieve miniaturization and high efficiency. To learn more about Toyota's latest Plug-in Hybrid system, check out this video. The system features a new configuration that is designed to help maximize fuel efficiency and electric driving range. It has a manufacturer estimated city/highway/combined fuel economy rating of 44/38/41 MPG on the SE and XSE grades; 42/35/38 MPG on the Woodland model, and 41/34/37 MPG for the GR SPORT. It also increases its all-electric driving range to a manufacturer 52-mile range rating on the SE and XSE grades. The Woodland PHEV model has a manufacturer estimated 49-mile all-electric driving range rating and the GR SPORT PHEV model has a 48-mile all-electric driving range rating. The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid XSE and Woodland grades will have an 11-kW onboard AC charger with a CCS1 charging port, with DC fast-charging capability, allowing charging from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes** under ideal conditions. The SE and GR SPORT Plug-in Hybrid models will have a 7-kW onboard charger and are equipped with a J1772 charging port for Level One and Level Two charging, with Level Two charging times of 10% to 80% of around 4 hours**. All models will come with a dual voltage charging cable, capable of 120v or 240v home charging. **Charging time provided is an estimate only and can vary depending on weather conditions and other factors. Use for comparison purposes only. Actual range will vary significantly depending on charging and driving conditions, including outside temperature, speed, accessory use, how/where you drive, battery condition and other factors. See www.fueleconomy.gov and Owner's Manual for details. Dynamic RAV4 GR SPORT For drivers looking for intuitive handling and passionate design, there is the first-ever GR SPORT grade. Developed in partnership with the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (GR) Company, the model is exclusively available with a PHEV powertrain and carries forward Toyota's vision of making ever-better vehicles through the rigors of motorsport. The GR brand launched in U.S. in 2019 with the GR Supra, but its story started long ago with Toyota Motor Corporation founder Kiichiro Toyoda. His view was that racing was essential for product development. "Automakers use racing as an opportunity to push a vehicle's performance to the limit and to compete for supremacy, enabling them to discover new ways of advancing automotive technology," said Toyoda. Flash forward to 2007 and this concept kicked into high gear with Akio Toyoda, Kiichiro's grandson and current Chairman of the Board at Toyota Motor Corporation. At that time, Toyoda was actively developing skills as a racecar driver and wanted to expand the company's use of racing in its car development activities. After years of training, he chose to compete in the 24 Hours of Nürburgring, a grueling endurance race on the 12.9-mile racetrack that winds through the German forest. It was an unofficial Toyota activity at the time, so the team was called GAZOO Racing and consisted of employees, including Akio Toyoda driving under the alias of MORIZO. With a limited budget, the team entered the race with two second-hand Altezzas. Despite adversity, both cars finished, and the next era of Toyota motorsports and product development began, one based on a spirit of challenge and instigating change that called back to Toyota's roots in motorsports. The RAV4 GR SPORT carries this spirit forward by taking the high output 324 horsepower PHEV system and working with the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing company to tweak its dynamic drive to a new level. It is equipped with functional components like a front lip and rear wing spoiler for balanced downforce; air ducts in the front grille and bumper to help channel air and reduce drag; offset wheels with performance tires for maximum grip; and drive battery placement that lowers its center of gravity and stabilizes the chassis. It also has one additional inch of overall width due to wider fender flares. The following components are unique to the RAV4 GR SPORT:
The RAV4 GR SPORT also has unique interior and exterior features that give it standout style, select standard features include: Performance/Capability
Exterior
Interior
Safety/Convenience
FWD or AWD...You Choose Drivetrain choice is abundant in the 2026 RAV4. Select hybrid models now have FWD for the first time, with AWD available across a range of models. The following powertrain combinations are available:
RAV4's AWD system has the capability to deliver added traction for slippery road conditions. The system employs a high-output IPM (Interior Permanent Magnet) motor that drives the rear wheels. The system works seamlessly and transparently, preemptively distributing driving force to the rear wheels to help suppress front wheel slip during off-the-line starts. It also engages the rear motor in response to slippage at the front wheels and enhances cornering agility by helping to reduce understeer. The AWD system also performs precise electronic control of the front-rear torque distribution in accordance with the driving conditions to support start-off acceleration, handling, and stability. This motor-driven AWD system is capable of efficiently using battery power for driving the front and rear wheels. Data from the wheel speed sensors and driver input like steering and throttle are processed by the vehicle computer system and sent to the rear motor as electrical signals to control the rear wheel torque. The system provides the optimal front-rear torque distribution based on the vehicle speed and accelerator operation amount and performs control according to the conditions to allow stable driving. Core Grades – LE, XLE Premium, Limited Core models include the LE, XLE Premium, and Limited grades, all with a Hybrid electric powertrain standard. Front- or All-Wheel drive are available, depending on grade. The exterior design highlights RAV4's SUV proportions, with large tires, an elevated ride, color-matched grille, and highly usable rear cargo area. Key features include: LE Grade: Performance
Exterior
Interior
Safety/Convenience
XLE Premium Grade (adds to or replaces LE features with): Performance/Capability
Exterior
Interior
Safety/Convenience
Limited Grade (adds to or replaces XLE Premium features with): Performance/Capability
Exterior
Interior
Safety/Convenience
Rugged – Woodland Grade For a RAV4 that taps into the spirit of the great outdoors, there's the new Woodland grade. With an appearance that matches RAV4's capable utility, the all-new Woodland model has standard AWD, all terrain tires, 2-inch tow hitch receiver, and comes in a choice of HEV or PHEV powertrains. Key standard features include: Performance/Capability
Exterior
Interior
Safety/Convenience
Hey Sporty! The SE and XSE sport grades are both available in Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid powertrain, with available Front- or All-Wheel Drive, depending on grade. They add unique touches like dark chrome trim on the outside and colorful accents on the inside, adding a sporty flare to RAV4's SUV proportions. Key features include: SE Grade: Performance/Capability
Exterior
Interior
Safety/Convenience
XSE Grade (adds to or replaces SE features with): Performance/Capability
Exterior
Interior
Safety/Convenience
Next Gen Toyota Audio Multimedia & Connected Technology The 2026 RAV4 also launches the newest version of the Toyota Audio Multimedia system. Developed in North America in partnership with Toyota Motor North America and Toyota Connected North America, the new system is Toyota's first integration of AT&T 5G network connectivity. It features an intuitive, smartphone-like design that offers customizable widgets on its new home screen. It also has new embedded Voice Assistant functions that enable faster responses to "Hey Toyota" prompts. The new system also has enhanced entertainment with the introduction of SiriusXM® with 360L® and newly available integrated streaming with Spotify® (separate subscription required). The native turn-by-turn navigation system is now incorporated and displays full screen on the digital gauge cluster, a first for Toyota Audio Multimedia. The latest-generation system also includes the launch of a standard built-in Drive Recorder, a feature that when operating, can utilize the vehicle's exterior cameras to capture 20-second clips of both manual and triggered events. Paired with the touchscreen display, the Toyota Audio Multimedia system will provide customers with choice thanks to standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, and simultaneous dual Bluetooth® phone connectivity. To read the full news release about the latest Toyota Audio Multimedia. System, click here. The new RAV4 will be equipped with Arene, an all-new software development kit 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 Toyota's most advanced safety, security, and connectivity technologies and will create new opportunities to enhance features for customers on a global scale. The following Connected Services and trials are available on the RAV4: Drive Connect: 1-year trial included for XSE, Limited, GR SPORT; LE, XLE Premium, SE, Woodland are capable— includes Cloud Navigation with Google Points of Interest (POI) data, Intelligent Assistant with Hey, Toyota, and Destination Assist. Subscription required after trial. 5G network dependent. Remote Connect: 1-year trial included for all grades. Remotely interact with your vehicle through the Toyota app via your smartwatch. Depending on grade, allows you to lock/unlock doors, start and stop the vehicle, locate your last parked location, check vehicle status and monitor guest drivers. Subscription required after trial. 5G network dependent. Wi-Fi Connect: 30-day trial subscription with Unlimited Hotspot Data, for all grades. Includes AT&T Wi-Fi hotspot and Integrated Streaming (Spotify® compatibility (separate subscription required). Subscription required after trial. 5G network dependent. Safety Connect ®: 5-year minimum trial subscription for all grades. Includes Emergency Assistance Button, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification, and Stolen Vehicle Locator. Subscription required. 5G network dependent. Service Connect: 5-year minimum trial subscription for all grades. Receive personalized maintenance updates and vehicle health reports. Subscription required after trial. 5G network dependent. Safety & Convenience Features The Toyota RAV4 comes with the updated Toyota Safety Sense (TSS 4.0) system. The new version of Toyota's standard active safety suite brings updates to its hardware and detection capabilities and has the following features:
Proactive Driving Assist (PDA) uses the vehicle's camera and radar, when system operating conditions are met, to provide gentle braking and/or steering to support driving tasks such as distance control between your vehicle and a preceding vehicle In addition to TSS 4.0, the RAV4 is equipped with Toyota's Star Safety System, which includes Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Smart Stop Technology (SST). Other available convenience technologies include Panoramic View Monitor and Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking. The 2026 RAV4 also has great standard convenience features like a rear seat reminder system, backup camera with dynamic gridlines, smart key with push button start, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) with direct pressure readout and individual tire location alert, and Hill Start Assist Control. Limited Warranty Toyota's 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and against perforation from corrosion for 60 months with no mileage limitation. Hybrid-related components that require repairs needed to correct defects in materials or workmanship are covered for 8 years/100,000 miles, whichever comes first from original date of first use when sold as new. The hybrid battery is covered for 10 years/150,000 miles, whichever comes first, and is transferable across ownership. The 2026 Toyota RAV4 also comes with ToyotaCare, a plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance, for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and 2 years, unlimited mileage of Roadside Assistance. About Toyota Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for nearly 70 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our nearly 1,500 dealerships. Toyota directly employs nearly 48,000 people in the U.S. who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of more than 35 million cars and trucks at our 11 manufacturing plants. In 2025, Toyota's plant in North Carolina began to assemble automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com. Media Contact Paul Hogard
SOURCE Toyota Motor North America | |||||||||||||||
Company Codes: NYSE:TM | |||||||||||||||
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