First Look: 2026 Toyota RV4 Adds Longer-Range PHEV, GR Sport and Woodland Options

When you’ve got one of America’s best-selling product lines you can’t risk resting on your laurels. So, Toyota has pulled out the stops with the debut of the sixth-generation RAV4. The new SUV will introduce a variety of new packages, including GR Sport and off-road Woodlands trims. And buyers will have a choice of either a conventional or plug-in hybrid drivetrain. Headlight.News was on hand for the official debut of the 2026 Toyota RAV4.

In an SUV world, Toyota’s long-running RAV4 remains a standout, the third best-selling vehicle in the U.S. last year. And the Japanese giant intends to remain the king of the sport-utility market as it prepares to roll out a sixth-generation RAV4.

The 2026 model is marked by a number of firsts. Among other things, this will be the first fully electrified version of the SUV, with buyers getting a choice of either a conventional hybrid or an updated plug-in offering what Toyota claims is enough all-electric range to more than meet the average American motorist’s daily driving needs.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 also will bring a first-time GR Sport package and what the automaker describes as a “new-look,” off-road-oriented Woodlands trim. The SUV introduces the new Arene software platform, an updated Toyota Audio Multimedia system and an expanded list of digital safety features.

What’s new

“At Toyota, customer choice is paramount,” said David Christ, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division. “With three distinct styles, two highly efficient electrified powertrains, and available Front- or All-Wheel Drive, the all-new RAV4 offers something for everyone and is ready to take on all of life’s adventures.”

As always, the 2026 RAV4 will be available in front- and all-wheel-drive options. The big news from the powertrain front is the decision to go exclusively with a pair of “electrified” powertrains. That includes a fifth-generation “conventional” hybrid making up to 236 horsepower. The available plug-in hybrid bumps that to 320 hp and will offer owners the ability to travel up to 50 miles on a charge.

The SUV will get a variety of technology upgrades, including the latest version of the automaker’s digital safety package, Toyota Safety Sense 4.0. Add upgrade to the Toyota Multimedia system and larger digital displays. Adds Arene, Arene, which Toyota describes as “an all-new software development platform created by Woven by Toyota. The introduction of Arene is Toyota’s first step toward fully software-defined vehicles.”

New trim packages

Considering the high volume that RAV4 delivers – a total of 475,193 U.S. sales in 2024 – it’s no surprise Toyota wants to expand its appeal to unique buyer groups. That includes:

• The new GR Sport which, Toyota explains, was “developed in partnership with Toyota GAZOO Racing, with GR-tuned handling, aggressive exterior style, exhilarating PHEV powertrain with AWD” and other more performance-oriented features;
• The newly redesigned Woodlands package. Available with a choice of conventional or plug-in hybrid drivetrain technology, it features standard all-wheel-drive, a higher ground clearance, all-terrain tires, a split grille and other off-road adventures;
• Core models will be available in three trims, including the more luxurious Limited grade;

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Powertrain

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 becomes the latest product line from the Japanese automaker to go fully electrified. In this case, that means a choice of two battery-based powertrains:

• A fifth-generation version of the Toyota hybrid system which pairs a 2.5-liter inline-four with two electric motors. It produces up to 226 hp in front-wheel-drive configuration and 235 in the all-wheel-drive package;
• An upgraded plug-in hybrid, offered only in all-wheel-drive. It adds a larger battery and takes power up to a peak 320 hp. Range on the new 2026 model jumps to 50 miles.

The PHEV comes with an 11-kW 240-volt charger and offers an optional DC fast-charge system with a new Tesla-style NACS port making it substantially easier to find a public quick charger.

All front-drive models can tow up to 1,750 miles. With the exception of the LE AWD package, all-wheel-drive bumps towing up to 3,500 miles.

Design

The 2026 RAV4 redesign yields more distinct personalities for each of the various trim packages. But there are some common elements, starting with the Toyota “hammerhead” nose and wider fenders, along with a rising beltline and black cladding.

With Woodland, the front end is slightly raised and the grille is split, with integrated Rigid Industries LED lighting. Woodland also has higher ground clearance and integrated roof rails. GR Sport, meanwhile, has a GR grille, unique 20-inch wheels and front and rear wing-type spoilers.

The SUV’s interior puts a premium on functionality, with a larger touchscreen – either 10.5 or 12.9 inches — and digital gauge cluster. The center cluster combines the shifter, cupholders and a removable divider. Several different materials will be offered, depending upon trim. Woodlands, for example, features the durable SofTex, while Brin-Naub microsuede is used on XSE and GR Sport packages.

Technology

All trims now get a 12.3-inch reconfigurable digital gauge cluster. A 6-speaker audio system is standard, with an upgraded 9-speaker JBL system available, depending upon grade. A head-up display will be available on Limited Hybrid and XSE plug-in models.

The Arenne operating system will enable future upgrades on the path to a fully software-defined vehicle. Much of the vehicle’s software can be updated using RAV4’s over-the-air update capabilities. And to speed operation, this is the first Toyota model with 5G cellphone technology.

The Toyota Audio Multimedia system features a native voice assistant. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standards and there’s dual Bluetooth connectivity.

The latest Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 system integrates a wide range of advanced driver assistance technology, such as forward collision warning with emergency auto braking.

Pricing and availability

Pricing for the 2026 Toyota RAV4 has yet to be released and officials told Headlight.News they have yet to lock down their strategy as they determine how to adjust to the new Trump administration tariffs on imported autos and auto parts.

The RAV4 currently is assembled in Georgetown, Kentucky, and Ontario, Canada, as well as in Japan. Toyota may adjust production plans due to the tariffs. Even U.S. models will experience some increase in production costs due to the use of imported parts and components.

The new SUV will arrive in U.S. showrooms in autumn 2025.