Toyota launched its new RAV4 on Could 21, with plans for its launch in Japan by the tip of FY2025.
The RAV4 debuted in 1994, initially designed as an off-road sport utility automobile (SUV). It was a pioneer within the crossover SUV phase, appropriate for each on-road and off-road driving. Through the years, the RAV4 has undergone vital evolution, turning into a favourite amongst drivers worldwide and adapting to altering existence by 5 generations.
The sixth technology of the RAV4 will function three new designs: Core, Rugged, and Sport, together with the standout Woodland grade and the RAV4 GR SPORT mannequin. The 2026 RAV4 will even broaden Toyota’s lineup of electrified autos, providing each Hybrid Electrical Car (HEV) and Plug-in Hybrid Electrical Car (PHEV) choices.
Toyota is introducing new applied sciences with the RAV4, together with the Arene software program improvement platform, an up to date model of the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, and enhancements to the Toyota Security Sense lively security suite.
### Powertrain Choices
The 2026 RAV4 HEV marks the debut of Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid system in an SUV. It contains a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with this superior hybrid system, enhancing motor output by enhancements to the transaxle, energy management unit, battery, and different key parts.
Moreover, a brand new Plug-in Hybrid system will probably be launched, additionally that includes a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine together with two electrical motors and a high-capacity traction battery. This method makes use of silicon carbide semiconductors on the entrance axle to maximise effectivity and scale back dimension, contributing to a powerful electrical vary of as much as 150 km (93 miles).
The RAV4 will help DC quick charging, with the XSE and Woodland grades outfitted for high-speed charging by a CCS charging port. The SE and GR SPORT PHEV fashions will make the most of a J1772 charging port. Moreover, dwelling and commonplace public charging will be expedited with an non-compulsory 11-kW AC onboard charger.
By way of towing capability, particular all-wheel-drive (AWD) grades will be capable of tow as much as 3,500 kilos, whereas front-wheel drive (FWD) fashions and the AWD LE mannequin will handle as much as 1,750 kilos.
### Design Evolution
When the RAV4 launched within the U.S. for the 1996 mannequin 12 months, it set the stage for a brand new period within the SUV market. Constructed on a unibody platform shared with the Corolla, it shortly met the wants of a various vary of drivers whereas offering each agility and utility. The brand new sixth-generation RAV4 retains this essence, constructed on the Toyota New Technology Structure-Ok (TNGA-Ok) platform. Structural enhancements, together with strengthened body joints and suspension mounting factors, elevate dealing with and experience consolation. Added high-damping adhesives additional scale back vibrations and street noise.
The outside design emphasizes the RAV4’s SUV traits with bigger tires, a better experience top, and a spacious rear cargo space. Every mannequin—Core, Rugged, or Sport—options the distinct Toyota hammerhead front-end, which presents a daring, fashionable aesthetic. The rear is complemented by fashionable LED signature taillights, enhancing its width and tech-forward look.
### Inside Options
Inside, the 2026 RAV4 emphasizes performance whereas balancing consolation and user-friendly expertise. The middle stack organizes controls for the touchscreen show, drive mode choice, and storage, creating an environment friendly area. The middle console is designed with a shifter, a cup holder with a detachable divider, and a dual-access armrest/storage bin. Sure grades will showcase a brand new shift-by-wire system, that includes a minimalist toggle change for a recent really feel.
### Superior Expertise
RAV4 will even roll out the Arene platform, developed by Woven by Toyota, marking the model’s transfer towards totally software-defined autos. This platform will help probably the most superior security, safety, and connectivity options, enhancing buyer experiences globally.
The 2026 RAV4 will debut the newest model of the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, built-in with the Arene platform. The system affords commonplace wi-fi Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, together with twin Bluetooth® cellphone connectivity. It contains a constant dwelling button throughout numerous interfaces, bettering person expertise, whereas the native Voice Assistant facilitates faster responses. Native navigation and mapping capabilities will probably be included within the digital gauge cluster as nicely.
Moreover, the RAV4 would be the first Toyota mannequin to introduce the Toyota Security Sense 4.0 (TSS 4.0), additionally powered by the Arene platform, enhancing its security and detection capabilities.
— Blagojce Krivevski, Could 21, 2025
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