Toyota’s best-selling SUV enters its sixth generation as a hybrid-only model with a refined plug-in lineup, fresh styling, and performance to match.
Toyota
- Toyota ditches gas-only powertrains, RAV4 is now hybrid or plug-in hybrid across the board.
- The RAV4 PHEV cranks out 320 hp, offers up to 50 miles of electric range, and gains DC fast charging.
- A new GR Sport trim joins the lineup, emphasizing handling and styling with track-inspired upgrades.
A Hybrid-Only Future for Toyota’s Top Seller
It’s official: the gas-only RAV4 is history. For 2026, Toyota’s top-selling SUV goes all-in on electrification, now offered exclusively with hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains. And it’s not just a powertrain update, this is a full redesign of the sixth-generation RAV4, built on the TNGA-K platform with upgraded technology, and broader trim options, RAV4 is now mare RAVISHING.
Let’s dig in…
Plug-in Powertrain: Now With More Muscle
The plug-in hybrid version of the RAV4, previously known as the RAV4 Prime, returns with a boost in performance and range. Now simply part of the main lineup, the 2026 RAV4 PHEV produces 320 horsepower, up from 302 hp. All PHEV trims come with standard all-wheel drive, thanks to a dual-motor setup.
Toyota estimates the new model can travel up to 50 miles on electric power alone, an improvement over the previous 42-mile rating. What’s more, DC fast-charging capability is now available on XSE and Woodland PHEV trims via a CCS port, recharging the battery from 10 to 80 percent in around 30 minutes. Other PHEV models, like the SE and GR Sport, use a J1772 charging port.
Trim Lineup: Core, Rugged, and Sport
Toyota has restructured the lineup into three distinct “styles”:
- Core (LE, XLE, Limited) – Clean design, hybrid-only, available in FWD or AWD
- Rugged (Woodland) – Outdoor-ready, all-terrain tires, lifted suspension, AWD standard, available as HEV or PHEV
- Sport (SE, XSE, GR Sport) – Aggressive styling, larger wheels, tuned suspension; GR Sport is PHEV-only
The new GR Sport trim is the visual and performance highlight of the PHEV range. It features a GR-tuned suspension, unique 20-inch wheels, front and rear spoilers, paddle shifters, and exclusive badging, giving it GAZOO Racing’s flavor.
Interior and Tech
Inside, the 2026 RAV4 looks sleeker and feels more connected. All models now feature a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, with either a 10.5-inch or 12.9-inch central touchscreen depending on trim. A head-up display is available on the XSE PHEV and Limited HEV trims.
Climate controls are now integrated into the lower edge of the touchscreen, replacing traditional knobs and the gear selector has been replaced with a minimalist shift-by-wire toggle on certain trims, opening up space on the console.
Toyota’s latest Arene software platform powers the multimedia system, allowing for faster OTA updates, improved voice recognition, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and dual Bluetooth device pairing.
Design Evolution: Still a RAV4, Just Meaner
“Hammerhead” front fascia makes its way here, with slimmer headlights, updated LED taillights, and new paint options like Urban Rock and Meteor Shower.
Wheel sizes now range from 17 to 20 inches, depending on the grade. A two-tone roof is still available on several trims, including the eye-catching Supersonic Red with Black combo exclusive to GR Sport.
Towing Capability
Towing capacity has also improved. AWD-equipped hybrids and all PHEVs can now tow up to 3,500 pounds, a notable figure for a compact SUV.
Release Timing and What’s Next
Toyota says the 2026 RAV4 lineup will begin arriving at U.S. dealerships later this year, with pricing expected to rise slightly from the outgoing model. Though official numbers haven’t been released, estimates suggest the base LE hybrid will start around $34,000, while the GR Sport PHEV could crest $51,000.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and may not reflect the most accurate, latest updates or specific model configurations. Always consult official website/sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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