2026 Toyota RAV4 Expert Review
Reviewed by Alex Leanse
Everyone knows the Toyota RAV4, and an all-new version is arriving for 2026.
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 represents the beginning of the model’s sixth generation, and the ultra-popular compact SUV is now built as a hybrid and plug-in hybrid—no more gas-only engines.
Offered in a variety of versions to suit different lifestyle needs, the new 2026 RAV4 remains focused on versatility, efficiency, and safety.
What’s New
Basics
- Hybrid engines only
- Built on updated platform, which could provide upgrades in handling and ride comfort
- Enhanced driver-assist and active safety features
- Revised Woodland and new GR Sport models
- A FWD model is now available with the hybrid; before, it was AWD-only
Exterior
- All-new exterior design
- 20-inch wheels are now available, above 17- or 18-inch options
- New exterior colors: Urban Rock (on Woodland), Meteor Shower, Everest, and Storm Cloud
Interior
- Redesigned interior
- Larger digital displays
- Improved infotainment software
What We Think
As it’s so many things to so many people, the Toyota RAV4 faces the challenge of finding universal appeal. But in the new generation of RAV4 arriving for 2026, Toyota offers a diverse range of variants, all redesigned to better meet the needs of modern drivers.
A key change is the hybrid powertrain built into every 2026 RAV4—there’s no more gas-only engine. That’ll benefit the SUV’s base fuel economy, while drivers looking to further reduce stops at the gas station can opt for the RAV4 PHEV with longer electric range than before.
On the road, the 2026 RAV4 delivers the smooth, quiet, and efficient drive expected from a hybrid-only lineup, with the PHEV model feeling especially strong and responsive in electric mode. Ride comfort is generally good, though bumps can be felt more on trims with larger wheels, and steering remains light rather than engaging. It’s not sporty, but it is composed, easy to drive, and refined, exactly what most RAV4 buyers want.
The new RAV4 will be built in versions that lean into rugged adventure and sporty performance, but most trims just focus on small crossover essentials that the RAV4 has become nearly synonymous with. Passenger and cargo space appear ample, while the new-generation safety features and impressive digital displays are very much with the times.
Some climate control functions move to the touchscreen, and may not be as easy to use as the last RAV4’s big, chunky knobs, but otherwise this new model seems to improve on a winning formula. It had better, as the competition is waiting for any misstep from Toyota, the segment sales leader.
Top-Ranked Competitors:
Performance
Every 2026 RAV4 will have a hybrid powertrain. We were never fans of the last RAV4’s noisy engine, so making every model a hybrid could add refinement to the Toyota’s driving experience.
The standard offering is centered on a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated I-4 supplemented by an electric motor. With FWD, the powertrain makes 226 hp. Before, Toyota didn’t offer a FWD hybrid; that’s new for 2026.
Choosing AWD adds an additional motor to the rear axle for traction, and increases power output to 236 hp. In MotorTrend testing, this model accelerated to 60 mph in 7.0 seconds, 0.3 second quicker than the outgoing hybrid AWD variant.
Once again, Toyota will offer the RAV4 as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV). The 2026 RAV4 PHEV also uses a 2.5-liter I-4 and two electric motors, with power output as high as 320 hp.
MPGs and PHEV Range
As expected, the new hybrid FWD is the most efficient variant. It returns an estimated 48/42 mpg city/highway, while AWD versions get 41-46/36-40 mpg, generally better than the 38–41/35–38 mpg city/highway ratings achieved by the 2025 RAV4 Hybrid, which was offered only with AWD.
For the 2026 RAV4 PHEV, fuel economy varies from an estimated 98 mpg-e combined with the GR Sport to 107 mpg-e combined with the SE and XSE models. Toyota estimates up to 52 miles of all-electric driving range capability, an increase from 42 miles previously. A 52-mile range is long enough for many drivers to travel to and from work every day, then plug in at home. In other words, some 2026 RAV4 PHEV owners may go a long time before needing to refuel with gas.
Safety Features
The new 2026 RAV4 will debut Toyota’s latest driver-assist and active safety tech. Within the Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 suite, expect to see features including:
- Front automatic emergency braking
- Intersection collision mitigation
- Rear and side cross-traffic alert
- Lane-departure warning
- Lane-keep assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- Automatic high beams
Dimensions: 2025 vs. 2026 RAV4
Cargo capacity improves slightly compared to the outgoing RAV4, but as before there is a space penalty that comes with the plug-in hybrid model and its larger underfloor battery. Legroom is the same as the outgoing RAV4.
Technology
Infotainment
Entry-level 2026 RAV4 models will have a 10.5-inch infotainment touchscreen, which was the upgrade touchscreen on the outgoing RAV4. Meanwhile, higher-end new RAV4 models will get a 12.9-inch touchscreen.
Both use Toyota’s newest infotainment interface and have wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Unfortunately, these touchscreens now integrate many climate control functions.
Regardless, all versions of the new RAV4 will have a 12.3-inch reconfigurable driver display.
Sound System
The base RAV4 sound system will have six speakers, and a nine-speaker JBL premium system will be equipped on higher-end models.
Available Upgrades
Expect to see dual wireless charging pads, digital rearview mirror, 360-degree camera, and head-up display on tech options list for the 2026 RAV4.
Trim Levels
The new RAV4 will be offered in trim levels familiar from the outgoing model, such as the entry-level SE and LE, as well as the higher-end XSE and Limited models.
The RAV4 Woodland returns with off-road-inspired cues such as all-terrain tires that increase the ride height, Rigid Industries integrated LED fog lamps, and standard AWD. Built-in roof rail cross bars and a standard rear trailer hitch prepare it to carry gear. The front bumper is styled to look a bit like that of the 4Runner.
For 2026, the RAV4 goes in a new sporty direction with the arrival of the GR Sport model. Built exclusively with the PHEV powertrain, the RAV4 GR Sport has 320 hp along with chassis hardware tuned for a performance feel. Large 20-inch wheels over red brake calipers and a rear spoiler add to the sporty impression.
Value
Standard Features
Standard equipment on the 2026 RAV4 includes a 12.3-inch driver’s display, 10.5-inch infotainment touchscreen, LED headlights and taillights, cloth seat upholstery, and automatic climate control. Several USB-C ports will also likely be distributed around the cabin.
Recommended Trim
We’re drawn to the XSE trim for its sporty styling and upgraded feature content, which includes the larger 12.9-inch touchscreen, heated and ventilated front seats, power liftgate, and sunroof.
Pricing for the 2026 RAV4 XSE could come in at approximately $40,000. Regardless of trim, hybrids like the RAV4 tend to have a slightly higher base price than non-hybrids, but lower fuel costs over time. The more you drive, the more likely you are to pay for that initial price premium.
