2026 Toyota RAV4 gets fresh design, tech plus PHEV power for Australia
The new RAV4 is built on an evolution of the existing GA-K platform architecture that underpins the current version.
Toyota will offer its latest hybrid and plug-in hybrid systems, and each of these are available with the choice of front- or all-wheel drive.
That includes in Australia, where the new RAV4 will be the first Toyota sold here with a PHEV powertrain.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Supplied Credit: CarExpert
The RAV4 features Toyota's fifth-generation hybrid system, using a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine.
Toyota Australia has quoted a total system output of 143kW for both front- and all-wheel drive hybrid models, despite Toyota USA quoting outputs of 169kW and 176kW respectively and the outgoing Australian-market model offering 160kW and 163kW respectively.
'The All-New RAV4 Hybrid will deliver enhanced driving performance and dynamics compared to the current generation vehicle,' a Toyota Australia spokesperson explained.
'Power outputs differ from global markets due to Australian light vehicle emission standards (Euro 6d).' Supplied Credit: CarExpert
Bigger news comes with the plug-in hybrid which benefits from a more powerful 150kW front electric motor and a larger 22.7kWh battery, increasing the electric-only driving range up to 100 kilometres under the WLTP cycle.
For the first time with the PHEV there is a front-wheel-drive option that has a peak system output of 201kW.
The all-wheel-drive plug-in RAV4 produces a more substantial 227kW and can accelerate to 100km/h from rest in just 5.8 seconds – compared to the 7.3 seconds required for the front-wheel-drive variant.
The RAV4 PHEV also benefits from 50kW DC charging capability, which can replenish the battery's charge from 10 to 80 per cent in 30 minutes. There's also 11kW AC charging, which will fully recharge the battery in as little as three hours. Supplied Credit: CarExpert
It may carry over some of the underpinnings, but all of the sheet metal has been updated with a more contemporary design that's quite different to the sleek C-HR+ electric SUV that was revealed earlier this year.
The exterior design might ruffle a few feathers with more conservative buyers, as its sharper lines and more angular shape represent a step change from its predecessor.
On the inside, Toyota has leaned into the rugged look that the exterior exudes. On the tech side, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is paired with a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
The RAV4 features Toyota's latest multimedia system, powered by Arene, which the company says offers improved screen clarity, a new configurable home screen, and over-the-air updates. Supplied Credit: CarExpert
The broad centre console has space for a couple of smartphones, two USB-C ports, cupholders and a pleasing number of physical buttons for both climate control and drive modes.
Toyota has expanded the suite of active safety technology standard on the RAV4 globally, which now includes front cross-traffic alert, a surround-view camera with a 3D view, and an autonomous lane change function on highways when adaptive cruise control and Lane Tracing Assist are activated.
There's also an advanced parking feature which allows owners to control parking from outside the vehicle using their smartphone.
As with a number of other recently updated models, Toyota is leaning more heavily into its motorsport connections with Gazoo Racing and will offer a sportier RAV4 GR Sport model. Supplied Credit: CarExpert
To be offered in Australia only as an all-wheel drive PHEV, this version wears a pronounced black honeycomb grille and a bespoke front bumper with repositioned fog lights.
Other visual cues include lightweight 20-inch alloy wheels in an exclusive five-arm, twin-spoke GR Sport design, while GR badging on the front and rear reiterate that this isn't the regular RAV4.
The interior of the RAV4 GR Sport also gets a makeover with an all-black design that features contrasting red stitching and aluminium brake and accelerator pedals.
You'll find GR logos on the steering wheel and front seats which are exclusively upholstered in synthetic leather and suede. Supplied Credit: CarExpert
Despite the visual enhancements, the RAV4 GR Sport's powertrains remain unchanged, but Toyota's engineers have reworked the suspension through upgraded damper design and the fitment of a stiffer rear brace.
These additions, alongside a retuned steering calibration and 20mm wider track, are claimed to result in a more stable and engaging drive.
It's not the only expansion to the RAV4 lineup, with US buyers also getting the option of a new Woodland trim level. This sits higher thanks to all-terrain tyres, and has standard roof rails with crossbars, a rear 'activity mount', and unique colour choices inside and out.
This variant hasn't been confirmed for Australia.
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