The 2026 Toyota RAV4 brings a bold shift with a hybrid-only powertrain and a sporty new GR Sport trim…The Toyota RAV4 has long been one of the brand’s top performers, and in 2025 alone, it sold an impressive 475,193 units in the U.S.—ranking just behind the Chevrolet Silverado and Ford F-Series. But last year’s model was based on a platform that was over six years old. A refresh was long overdue, and it has finally arrived.
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 is here, and it brings major updates in design, technology, and most importantly, powertrain. Toyota has now gone all-in on hybrid technology, dropping the traditional gas-only engine in favor of a standard hybrid setup. There’s also a new, more powerful plug-in hybrid option, available on more trims than ever before, and the introduction of a brand-new sporty GR-Sport trim.
All Hybrid, All the Time
The familiar naturally aspirated 2.5-liter gas engine is gone. In its place is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine using Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid system. This updated system includes a more advanced power control unit and improved battery tech for better performance and efficiency.
The new RAV4 Hybrid produces 226 application with front-wheel drive and 236 application with all-wheel drive. That’s an access of 23 hp and 17 hp appropriately over the approachable models. While Toyota hasn’t yet announced fuel economy figures, efficiency is expected to improve.
For those absent alike added power, the RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid—replacing the RAV4 Prime—now uses Toyota’s sixth-generation constituent amalgam technology. With two electric motors and a beyond high-capacity array application silicon-carbide semiconductors, this adaptation delivers a almighty 320 application and up to 50 afar of electric-only active ambit (up from 42 afar in the approachable Prime).
Model Overview:
| Model | Output | Drive Type | EV Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| RAV4 Hybrid | 226 / 236 HP | FWD / AWD | — |
| RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid | 320 HP | AWD | 50 miles |
Some trims with the new battery tech support DC fast charging—specifically the XSE and Woodland trims, which use the CCS charging port. However, SE and GR Sport trims come with the standard J1772 port. All trims offer an 11-kW onboard charger.
Trim Levels and Design Categories
Toyota has organized the 2026 RAV4 lineup into three design categories:
- Core Design: Includes LE, XLE, and Limited trims with standard hybrid powertrains. LE and XLE offer both FWD and AWD options, while Limited is AWD-only.
- Rugged Design: Includes the off-road-focused Woodland trim, available with either hybrid or plug-in hybrid, both with AWD only. It comes with all-terrain tires, additional front bumper LED lights, and a standard roof rack.
- Sport Design: Comprises the SE, XSE, and the all-new GR Sport. The SE offers both powertrains and FWD or AWD. The XSE is AWD-only and comes with both powertrain options. The GR Sport is AWD-only and plug-in hybrid-exclusive, delivering a class-leading 320 hp.
2026 Toyota RAV4 Design & Exterior Changes
Trim and Powertrain Summary:
| Design Category | Trims | Powertrain | Drive Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core Design | LE / XLE / Limited | Hybrid | FWD (LE, XLE) / AWD |
| Rugged Design | Woodland | Hybrid / Plug-In Hybrid | AWD |
| Sport Design | SE / XSE / GR Sport | Hybrid / Plug-In Hybrid | FWD (SE) / AWD (others) |
Introducing the GR Sport Trim
The GR Sport is Toyota’s first performance-inspired RAV4. While not a full GR model, it features the powerful plug-in hybrid setup with 320 hp and AWD, likely beating the outgoing RAV4 Prime’s 0-60 time of 5.5 seconds.
It also stands out with a larger front grille (with GR badging), aggressive 20-inch wheels, a rear roof spoiler, and a stylish interior with suede and synthetic leather accents—clearly inspired by Toyota’s sportier GR models.
Tech and Safety Updates
Toyota hasn’t just focused on performance—the 2026 RAV4 also steps up in tech and safety. All models come with a 10.5-inch center touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Higher trims get a larger 12.9-inch touchscreen. The updated Toyota Audio Multimedia system now includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual Bluetooth pairing, and for the first time, a physical home button.
It’s also the first Toyota vehicle to feature Toyota Safety Sense 4.0. This suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, emergency braking, and enhanced detection hardware for improved safety across all trims.
Towing remains strong, too—AWD models can still pull up to 3,500 pounds, while FWD models see an increase from 1,500 to 1,750 pounds.
Pricing and Availability
Toyota hasn’t revealed the pricing yet, but given that the 2025 model started just under $30,000, we expect a slight increase. With so many new features and improved powertrains, the 2026 RAV4 is shaping up to be worth every penny.