2026 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Goes Bold with All-New Look

2026 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid debuts with bold redesign for America’s bestselling SUV. The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is back with a bold look and a big shift: every model is now a hybrid or plug-in hybrid. Gas-only engines are gone.

A New Look for a New Era

The RAV4 now wears boxy, modern styling. Three styles are offered—Core, Sport, and Rugged. The new GR-Sport trim leads the sporty lineup, while Woodland represents the off-road look.

Each version has its own trim accents, wheels, and grille design. Tail lights now run horizontally, with vertical tech-style accents. “RAV4” is spelled out across the tailgate, a growing Toyota trend.

Hybrid Power for All

All models use hybrid or plug-in hybrid (PHEV) systems. Core trims (LE, XLE, Limited) come standard with front-wheel drive but offer AWD. Sport and Rugged trims provide the option of a stronger PHEV system.

The PHEV models can now go up to 50 miles on electric power—an 8-mile improvement. Toyota offers the GR-Sport exclusively as a PHEV.

Interior Gets a Tech Upgrade

Inside, the RAV4 gets a modern refresh. A 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster is standard on all trims. Lower trims have a 10.5-inch touchscreen. Upper trims like the Limited and GR-Sport get a 12.9-inch display.

The center console is now more versatile. A two-tier design holds phones, bottles, and daily items. A dual-opening compartment works from either seat. Sport and off-road models use a larger, more rugged shifter.

Comfort and Style

While not luxury-focused, the cabin has been improved. Black tones dominate, with trim-specific accents like red stitching on GR-Sport or orange trim in Woodland.

SofTex seats come standard in many trims. Sport seats in GR-Sport feature suede and GR logos.

Rear seats remain roomy. The floor is nearly flat. Rear door access isn’t as wide as before, but cargo space seems strong for the class.

Performance and Capability

Toyota’s new hybrid system uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. Output is 226 horsepower (FWD) or 236 horsepower (AWD). The new plug-in hybrid can reach up to 320 horsepower.

AWD towing capacity is 3,500 pounds. FWD and LE AWD can tow 1,750 pounds. Some trims can fast-charge the PHEV system from 10–80% in about 30 minutes.

Smarter, Safer, and Always Updating

The RAV4 rides on an improved version of the TNGA-K platform. Structural rigidity has increased for better ride comfort.

Tech-wise, the SUV gets Toyota’s new Arene software platform and Toyota Safety Sense 4.0. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. Over-the-air updates will keep systems fresh.

Source: Motor Trend