Latest news with #RAV4
Man of Many
an hour ago
- Automotive
- Man of Many
2025 Subaru Forester Price and Specs Revealed for Australia
With a debut at the Chicago Auto Show earlier in the year, Subaru has officially revealed price and specifications for the new Forester (priced from AUD$43,490 plus on-roads), a week after Toyota unveiled the latest generation of their top-selling car in Australia, the Toyota RAV4. To put this new Forester release in context, the RAV4 was the top-selling vehicle in Australia in 2024 with 58,718 vehicles sold, but that number looks tiny when you compare it to the sales in the United States, where the RAV4 outsold the Ford F-150 for the first time, according to Jato Dynamics data. F-150 sales dropped 5 per cent to 460,915 in 2024. Meanwhile, Toyota RAV4 registrations increased by 9 per cent to 475,193, and it seems this is the wake-up call that Subaru needed, unveiling the new model shortly after the sales figures were announced. Now, Subaru Australia is ready to bring the top-selling Forester to market, and it's going to be their most important model release in decades as it shapes up to become the best alternative to the RAV4 and other competitors like the Mitsubishi Outlander as it will be available from mid-2025 in both hybrid and non-hybrid formats. While yet to be released, the current-generation Toyota RAV4 starts from AUD$42,260 plus on-roads. Let's take a closer look! 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid | Image: Subaru USA What's Under the Bonnet of the New Subaru Forester? You'll have two powertrain options available with the new Subaru Forester in Australia: Non-hybrid Subaru Foresters (priced from AUD$43,490 plus on-roads) will be powered by: Engine : 2.5-litre horizontally opposed Boxer 4-cylinder : 2.5-litre horizontally opposed Boxer 4-cylinder Power : 136kW @ 5,800rpm : 136kW @ 5,800rpm Torque : 247Nm @ 3,700rpm : 247Nm @ 3,700rpm Transmission : Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with: 8-speed manual mode Broader gear ratio range (8.1) Retuned for stronger take-off acceleration Lower 1st and reverse gears for increased performance on hills : Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with: Fuel economy : 7.9 litres/100km (combined) : 7.9 litres/100km (combined) Fuel tank capacity : 63L : 63L Towing: 1,800kg braked, 750kg unbraked Hybrid Subaru Foresters (from AUD$46,490 plus on-roads) will be powered by: Engine : 2.5-litre Boxer petrol engine with 90kW electric motor and 1.1kWh lithium-ion battery Power : 121kW @ 5,600 rpm Torque : 212Nm @ 4,000–4,400 rpm : 2.5-litre Boxer petrol engine with 90kW electric motor and 1.1kWh lithium-ion battery Combined system output : 145kW : 145kW Transmission : TH2B Hybrid Transaxle Planetary gearset Integrated secondary electric motor/generator (MG1) : Fuel economy : 6.2L/100km (combined) : 6.2L/100km (combined) Range : Over 1,000km per tank (indicative) : Over 1,000km per tank (indicative) Towing: 1,200kg braked, 750kg unbraked The non-Hybrid 2.5-litre horizontally opposed Boxer 4-cylinder produces 136kW @ 5,800rpm and 247Nm @ 3,700rpm. However, what we're most interested in here is the hybrid Forester, which features a 2.5-litre Boxer petrol engine with a 90kW electric motor powered by a 1.1kWh lithium-ion battery. That figure is similar to the new 2026 Toyota RAV4's 143kW of power, but down compared to the 226kW PHEV variant that has just been announced. Notably, the city fuel economy has jumped by 30 per cent over the naturally aspirated petrol, and even more impressively, this hybrid powertrain delivers an impressive driving range of over 1,000km per tank (based on laboratory results under ADR testing conditions). Unlike the RAV4, the Forester does not have an electric motor powering the rear wheels, and because of this Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, the brand says that it retains a low centre of gravity and optimal handling whilst adding enhanced range. 2025 Subaru Forester Petrol Variant | Image: Supplied / Subaru Australia To add to this, the hybrid Forester also gets a torque vectoring system, vehicle dynamics control and an off-road X-Mode system from the standard petrol model, while the ground clearance stands at a class-leading 220mm. That said, there is an even more off-road-focused Wilderness version in the United States, which comes with the standard petrol engine while having a significant increase in ground clearance at 236mm along with different suspension, all-terrain tyres, and a beefier set of bumpers. It remains to be seen whether Subaru will ever offer this car here in Australia, as it wasn't announced at the release today, but we'd love to see it! 2025 Subaru Forester Mid Spec Hybrid Variant | Image: Supplied / Subaru Australia What's the Interior of the Subaru Forester Like? Every model in the all-new Subaru Forester range will come with a tablet-like 11.6-inch Multimedia system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility alongside a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster on 'selected' Hybrid variants. Take note that Satellite navigation will only be built-in on Premium and above models, but a 6-speaker audio system will be included as standard here in Australia, with a Harman Kardon® 10-speaker system with subwoofer on Touring and Hybrid Sport. Of course, like all new Subaru models, the Forester will come with the brand's top-level safety systems, including the Eyesight Driver Assist Technology with active cruise control, innovative Driver Monitoring System, Emergency Driving Stop System, 360-Degree View Monitor, and nine SRS airbags. Importantly for comfort purposes, the seats have been redesigned with ergonomics in mind as they've been developed with anatomy experts to improve lower back and hip support and keep your spine aligned, all the while minimising fatigue on long drives. Heated front seats are standard across all variants, and power-adjustable lumbar support and 8-way electric front seats are available on higher trims. The only way to get leather, however, is on the Touring variants of the Forester that use a Leather and Ultrasuede® (black or brown/black) material. 'Inspired by six generations of adventure, this next-generation Forester features a bold, rugged design, with the confidence of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and renowned X-Mode,' said General Manager of Subaru Australia, Scott Lawrence. 'It's built to take you from city streets to untamed trails with ease. Its revolutionary design brings advanced safety and immersive in-car technology, and enhanced all-terrain capability. We are looking forward to sharing more details on the all-new Forester range in both petrol and hybrid over the coming months.' 2025 Subaru Forester Top Spec Hybrid Variant | Image: Supplied / Subaru Australia When is the New Subaru Forester Coming to Australia? Pre-orders for the new Subaru Forester are available from today, before first vehicle arrivals in Australia begin in July 2025. 'The new-generation Forester is stronger, smarter and more capable than ever — and it's exactly what Australians need from an SUV,' said Scott Lawrence, General Manager, Subaru Australia. 'During local testing it's handled everything we threw at it, from rough country roads, unpredictable weather, steep climbs and changing conditions. It's built to take on real Australian driving, and the addition of Subaru's latest Hybrid technology gives drivers the very best Subaru SUV.' You can place an order for the new Subaru Forester at Subaru Australia's website (linked below) or by contacting your local retailer. 2025 Subaru Forester | Image: Supplied / Subaru Australia Full List of Model Specifications for Subaru Forester in Australia The all-new Subaru Forester will be available in seven variants, this is how the model range is broken down in Australia. Petrol-Only Variants of the Subaru Forester Forester AWD – from AUD$43,490 plus on-roads 2.5-litre Boxer petrol engine Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive X-Mode Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive) – 2 mode Subaru's Vision Assist with Panoramic 360 Degree View Monitor 9 SRS airbags now including: Far Side airbag Front Passenger Seat Cushion airbag The latest gen of Subaru EyeSight® which now adds: Wide-angle monocular camera Emergency Driving Stop System Front side radar Reverse Automatic Braking Driver Monitoring System An 11.6-inch high-definition touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ connectivity Wireless Qi charger Heated front seats Ladder style roof rails 18-inch alloy wheels Forester AWD Premium – from AUD$46,490 plus on-roads adds: Satellite navigation Powered tailgate with kick sensor Powered front seats: 8-way power seat with dual memory – driver Electric lumbar support – driver 8-way power seat – front passenger Auto driver's seat and door mirror adjustment DMS functions Auto folding door mirrors with auto dipping passenger mirror on reverse Forester AWD Sport – from AUD$48,490 plus on-roads adds: X-Mode – 2 mode Water repellent synthetic leather seat trim Electric sunroof Dark metallic 18-inch alloy wheels Unique styling cues such as: Black front grille with green insert Symmetrical All Wheel Drive exterior badge – Green Exterior Sport badge – Green Interior seat stitching – Green leather steering wheel with green stitching Shift boot with green stitching Forester AWD Touring – from AUD$50,990 plus on-roads adds: 10 speaker, plus sub-woofer and amplifier, Harman Kardon® audio system Leather and Ultrasuede® accented seat trim in a choice of a black or brown colour themes Front seat ventilation Stylish gloss black exterior highlights on the: Front grille Front and rear bumper Side garnish Door mirrors caps Low profile roof rails Hybrid Variants of the Subaru Forester Forester AWD Hybrid – from AUD$46,490 plus on-roads Next generation strong hybrid e-Boxer Lineartronic CVT with Sports Regeneration Paddles Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive X-Mode – 2 mode Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive) Subaru's Vision Assist with Panoramic 360 Degree View Monitor 9 SRS airbags now including: Far Side airbag Front Passenger Seat Cushion airbag The latest gen of Subaru EyeSight® which now adds: Wide-angle monocular camera Emergency Driving Stop System Front side radar Reverse Automatic Braking Driver Monitoring System An 11.6-inch high-definition touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ connectivity Wireless Qi Charger Heated front seats Ladder style roof rails 18-inch alloy wheels Forester AWD Hybrid Sport – from AUD$54,990 plus on-roads adds: Stylish bronze accents on the: Front and rear bumper Side garnish Symmetrical All Wheel Drive badge Electric sunroof 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster Satellite navigation Powered tailgate with kick sensor Auto driver's seat and door mirror adjustment DMS functions Powered front seats: 8-way power seat with dual memory – driver Electric lumbar support – driver 8-way power seat – front passenger Auto folding door mirrors with auto dipping passenger mirror on reverse 10 speaker, plus sub-woofer and amplifier, Harman Kardon® audio system Enhanced suspension for improved comfort on bumpy roads Low profile roof rails 19-inch alloy wheels – Bronze colour Forester AWD Hybrid Touring – from AUD$55,990 plus on-roads adds: 19-inch alloy wheels – Dark grey machined gloss finish
Straits Times
5 hours ago
- Automotive
- Straits Times
Fast Lane: New Toyota RAV4 here in 2026, ride in Kia EV5 on a rooftop track
Hot SUV: The new Toyota RAV4 is expected to arrive in Singapore in 2026. PHOTO: TOYOTA Fast Lane: New Toyota RAV4 here in 2026, ride in Kia EV5 on a rooftop track Toyota RAV4 in 2026 The latest Toyota RAV4 was unveiled on May 21 and the car is going to be in Singapore in 2026. This is the first time that the mid-sized sport utility vehicle (SUV) is available in the GR Sport trim. Besides having a more sporty-looking bodykit over the Core and Adventure versions of the RAV4, the GR Sport has a 20mm wider wheel track, performance suspension dampers, strengthened rear suspension brace and a specifically tuned steering system. All three versions have slightly different front-end and wheel arch moulding design. The interior looks more rugged than the current-generation RAV4, which has been on sale in Singapore since 2019 and facelifted in 2022. With the rear seats in use, the new car has a boot capacity of 749 litres, up from 733 litres before. The car will also have Toyota's new multimedia system, which is more customisable and responsive than earlier versions. In terms of powertrain, a new plug-in hybrid system with an electric driving range of 150km and an improved hybrid system were mentioned. A spokeswoman for Borneo Motors, Toyota's Singapore distributor, said the new car will 'most likely' be launched here in 2026, although pricing and the variants available for Singapore are yet to be confirmed. Book a ride on a rooftop in the Kia EV5 Joyrider: From early June, the Kia EV5 will take on the banked Skytrack on the rooftop of the Hyundai plant in Bulim Avenue. ST PHOTO: GAVIN FOO From early June, the Kia EV5 electric sport utility vehicle will be used to give passenger rides on the 620m-long Skytrack on the rooftop of the Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Center Singapore at the Jurong Innovation District. The banked track is otherwise used for final quality checks on new electric vehicles before they are handed over to their owners. The passenger ride is free, but must be booked in advance. For details , go to The EV5 is the first Kia electric vehicle to be assembled at the Hyundai-owned plant in Bulim Avenue. Three versions were announced on May 28 – the 400km-range Air that uses a 100kW motor; Earth, which is just as powerful but has a longer 540km range; and the GT Line, a 230kW dual-motor EV that is said to be able to travel 470km on a full charge. The new EV5 is now at the Kia showroom at 239 Alexandra Road and is priced from $194,000 with certificate of entitlement (COE). Customised-in-Bali motorcycle at London show Indo-mean: The aggressively styled Phoenix motorcycle is the creation of a workshop in Bali, Indonesia. PHOTO: ROYAL ENFIELD Royal Enfield presented seven modified motorcycles at the Bike Shed Moto Show London 2025 held from May 23 to 25. Among them was the Phoenix, which was the creation of Mr Putu Ajus Mulyawarman, owner of AMS Garage in Bali, Indonesia. The dramatic Phoenix is based on a Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 with low-riding, 'tribal style' bodywork that is made from exposed aluminium. Royal Enfield is one of the oldest motorcycle brands, having been in operation since 1901. In 1994, it was sold to multinational automotive company Eicher Motors . Today, it is active in 60 countries, including Singapore. Right-hand-drive Vietnamese EV Primed for export: The launch of the right-hand-drive version VinFast VF6 in Indonesia opens the possibility for the EV brand to come to Singapore. PHOTO: VINFAST VinFast Auto, the carmaker under Vietnam's Vingroup, unveiled the right-hand-drive version of its VF6 in Indonesia. This is an electric SUV that rivals the BYD Atto 3 in size and paves the way for the brand to be introduced in other right-hand-drive countries in the region, including Singapore. The VF6 Eco is powered by a single 130kW motor and is said to be able to travel up to 480km on a full-charge under the New European Driving Cycle test procedure, which is more optimistic than the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure standard adopted by Singapore. The higher-grade VF6 Plus has a 150kW motor and an operating range of 460km. In Indonesia, the car comes with free charging until March 1, 2028, at VinFast-operated stations. VinFast's chief executive and founder Pham Nhat Vuong told shareholders in April that due to high logistics fees in North America and Europe, the company is pushing expansion into Asian markets instead. Chinese carmakers questioned over 'zero-mileage' used cars The Chinese government is looking into the increasing number of used cars on sale that have never been driven, according to a Reuters report. This comes after Mr Wei Jianjun, chairman of Great Wall Motor, said in a separate report that the industry's years-long price war has caused the emergence of 'second-hand cars with zero mileage' in the Chinese market. An unnamed source in the Reuters article said carmakers and dealers were potentially doing this to meet aggressive sales targets. It is possible to find pre-owned cars with hardly any mileage on sale in Singapore. While there are no rules against this practice here, industry insiders opined that pre-registering cars without actual buyers artificially inflates demand for COEs. Monster Jam tickets selling fast Motor mania: Monster trucks will be performing stunts at the National Stadium on Aug 23. PHOTO: MONSTER JAM Tickets to catch trucks weighing more than five tonnes performing stunts at the National Stadium on Aug 23 are said to be selling fast. The show begins at 6pm, while the Pit Party, where ticket holders can get close to the vehicles, happens from 1 to 4pm. The tickets are priced from $25 and are available through Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
Yahoo
7 hours ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Toyota's 2026 RAV4 Is Officially Hybrid-Only. That's a Very Big Deal.
Toyota's 2026 RAV4 Is Officially Hybrid-Only. That's a Very Big Deal. originally appeared on Autoblog. Toyota just unveiled the sixth-generation RAV4, and it's a massive update in more ways than one. The best-selling non-pickup in the U.S. is now only available with hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains. For a model that sold nearly half a million units last year, this isn't just a product refresh — it's a high-stakes bet on electrified drivetrains becoming mainstream. Following in the footsteps of the hybrid-only 2025 Camry, the new RAV4 eliminates the pure gas-powered option entirely starting with the 2026 model year. That means every RAV4 sold from now on will have at least one electric motor under the hood. The standard hybrid RAV4 gets a significant upgrade with Toyota's fifth-generation hybrid system. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine works with electric motors to produce 236 combined horsepower in AWD models, and 226 hp in FWD versions — the latter being a first for RAV4 hybrids. That's a healthy bump over the previous RAV4 gas model's 203 hp and should translate into better performance without sacrificing fuel economy. The plug-in hybrid version, meanwhile, uses a high-capacity battery and dual electric motors to generate up to 320 hp. That's 18 more horsepower than before, and it comes with a manufacturer-estimated electric-only range of 50 miles — a 20% boost over the outgoing RAV4 Prime. Even better, the new RAV4 PHEV now supports DC fast charging on XSE and Woodland trims, letting owners recharge from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes. The RAV4 rides on Toyota's TNGA-K platform, which now features a stiffer structure and better insulation for reduced road noise and improved comfort. Inside, Toyota's latest Arene software platform powers a next-gen multimedia system and the newest version of its active safety suite, Toyota Safety Sense 4.0. Of course, the RAV4 Hybrid still burns gasoline, and that's a sticking point for environmentalists who say Toyota's strategy isn't aggressive enough. But in a country where EV sales growth is cooling and policy support is weakening, Toyota's strategy looks pragmatic. Hybrid sales already make up nearly half of Toyota's U.S. volume, and the RAV4's shift to a hybrid-only lineup could push that number even higher. Besides, the new RAV4's reveal is full of good news. Both hybrid and plug-in models get more power than before. The hybrid now makes 226 horsepower in front-wheel-drive configuration and 236 with all-wheel drive — the latter available for the first time on the Woodland trim. The plug-in hybrid gains a stronger battery and more efficient electric motors, helping push its combined output to 320 hp. The 2026 RAV4 won't solve climate change, but it may bring hundreds of thousands of American drivers into a more efficient, lower-emissions future — all while saving owners money at the pump. Toyota's 2026 RAV4 Is Officially Hybrid-Only. That's a Very Big Deal. first appeared on Autoblog on May 29, 2025 This story was originally reported by Autoblog on May 29, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Toyota Launches Impressive 2025 RAV4 Lease Offer
The Toyota RAV4 is undoubtedly one of the most trusted and well-known compact SUVs. With a history dating all the way back to 1994, it is one of the best-selling SUVs of all time, with a total of 10 million units sold globally in 2020. In February 2025, the RAV4 replaced the Ford F-150 as the top-selling car in the United States, after nearly four decades of the F-150 staying on top. Even better, Toyota is offering some pretty impressive lease offers for the 2025 RAV4, so if you're in the market for a compact SUV that you can trust, the time might be now. If you live in the Los Angeles area, you can grab a 2025 RAV4 LE 2WD for $359/month for 36 months with $2,999 due at signing and a 10,000 miles/yr limit. If you prefer a hybrid instead, the RAV4 Hybrid LE 4WD carries a $389/month for 36 months deal with $2,999 due at signing and the same mile limit. Denver residents get a slightly different deal. They can have a RAV4 LE 4WD for $339 per month for 36 months, with a $3,999 due at signing and a 12,000-mile-per-year limit. or a RAV4 LE 2WD at $319/month for 36 months with $3,999 due at signing and the same mileage limit. The RAV4 Hybrid LE 4WD is a little pricier, at $349/month for 36 months with $3,999 due at signing and the same mileage limit. Further southeast, in Miami, the lease offer for a 2025 RAV4 LE 2WD and a RAV4 LE 4WD Hybrid comes to $349/month for 36 months with $3,648 due at signing and a 12,000 miles/yr limit. Up north, New Yorkers can have a 2025 RAV4 LE 4WD for a cheaper $319/month for 36 months, but with a pricier $3,999 due at signing and a lower 10,000 miles/yr limit. The RAV4 Hybrid LE 4WD for a similar deal as the rest, at $349/month for 36 months with $3,999 due at signing and the same mileage limit. Potential lessees who want to save money on the upfront costs can pay $0 at signing, with some adjustments to the monthly payment. We have estimated the monthly payments by spreading the amount at signing over the lease's term. Los Angeles residents wanting a RAV4 LE 2WD would pay ~$83 more per month, for a total monthly cost of around $442. The RAV4 Hybrid LE 4WD would carry the same increase, for a total monthly cost of around $472. In Denver, the monthly costs for a RAV4 LE 4WD would increase by around $111 per month, for a total monthly cost of around $450. The RAV4 LE 2WD sees the same increase for a monthly cost of around $430. On the hybrid side, the RAV4 Hybrid LE 4WD gets the same cost increase, bringing the monthly cost to around $460. In Miami, the lease offer for a 2025 RAV4 LE 2WD and a RAV4 LE 4WD would increase by about $101 per month, for a total monthly cost of around $450. Lastly, New Yorkers wanting a 2025 RAV4 LE 4WD with $0 down will find themselves shelling out an extra ~$111 per month for a total cost of around $430. That same increase carries over to the RAV4 Hybrid LE 4WD, bringing its monthly cost to around $460. *This $0 down figure is an estimation. Official $0 down lease offers from Toyota may differ based on their specific calculations, credit approval, and potential money factor adjustments. Always obtain a quote directly from Toyota with your ZIP code. The current sixth-generation RAV4 is available in three variants: a regular Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) model, a Hybrid, and a Plug-in Hybrid. A 2.5L 4-cylinder engine powers the regular RAV4 in either FWD or AWD configurations, which makes 203 hp through an 8-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants get a CVT automatic and make 219 hp and 302 hp, respectively. Fuel economy numbers range from 27 mpg city/35 mpg highway for the regular ICE FWD version, to 38-41 city/35-38 highway mpg for the hybrid, and 94 mpg-e combined for the plug-in hybrid. The interior features a straightforward design, with a 7-inch touchscreen standard in LE trims and an 8-inch touchscreen available in XLE and higher trims. All RAV4s come with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, adding features like Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, Automatic High Beams, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist, and plenty more. Lease offers can vary based on location and specific vehicle configuration (trim level, options, etc.) and are subject to credit approval. Advertised payments typically exclude taxes, title, registration, and other potential fees. To take advantage of this offer or to get a precise quote based on your needs (including an official $0 down option), visit the official Toyota website here. *Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. The information presented herein is based on manufacturer-provided lease offer information, which is subject to frequent change and may vary based on location, creditworthiness, and other factors. We are not a party to any lease agreements and assume no liability for the terms, conditions, availability, or accuracy of any lease offers mentioned. All terms, including but not limited to pricing, mileage allowances, and residual values, require direct verification with an authorized local OEM dealership. This article does not constitute financial advice or an endorsement of any particular lease or vehicle. Toyota Launches Impressive 2025 RAV4 Lease Offer first appeared on Autoblog on May 28, 2025
Motor Trend
a day ago
- Automotive
- Motor Trend
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 GR Sport PHEV Isn't the First Ultra-Sporty RAV4
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 lineup is wider than ever, with so-called "core" models forming the backbone of the bestselling compact SUV's family, and a new Woodland off-road trim joining an equally new GR Sport trim level on the fringes. While there are other "sport" themed RAV4s available, namely an XSE model, the zestiest of the bunch is that GR Sport. 0:00 / 0:00 It combines the new RAV4's most powerful powertrain—a 320-hp plug-in hybrid setup—with a lowered suspension, sticky summer tires, and heavily bolstered seats. Sounds wild, right? Well, it's not the first time Toyota's gotten weird with the RAV4, which has otherwise been an exemplar of the mainstream since its 1996 introduction. New Sport, Same as the Old Sport? The Sport trim level has been offered with RAV4s on and off for decades, but the GR Sport isn't the first one with huge power underhood. The last-generation RAV4's Prime (later Plug-In Hybrid) version offered up a stout 302 ponies and came only in Toyota's sportier XSE trim level. Before that, the only other RAV4 that qualified as "powerful" is the only RAV4 ever to offer V-6 power, the third-generation model sold between 2006 and 2012. It was larger than the dinkier first- and second-gen versions, so much so it even offered a (tiny) third-row seat option. But the headliner was that optional 3.5-liter V-6 that Toyota stuffed between its front wheels. While most third-gen RAV4s were sold with a 2.4-liter inline-four sending 166 hp through a four-speed automatic transmission, the optional V-6—available across the lineup, from the entry-level version with unadorned steel wheels to the Sport to the top-tier Limited variant—was where the real action was at. The 3.5-liter V-6 borrowed from the larger Avalon sedan pushed out a mighty 269 hp and 246 lb-ft of torque and enjoyed an extra forward ratio in its five-speed auto. For a time, V-6-powered RAV4s were the quickest new Toyotas you could buy; MotorTrend tested one that reached 60 mph in only 6.3 seconds. Nothing else in the compact SUV segment at the time even came close to the Toyota's muscle, which was deployed most effectively in the firmed-up, big-wheel RAV4 Sport model. Well, there was one SUV with the power to challenge the V-6 RAV4: The electric one. Yep, from 2012 to 2014, at the tail end of the RAV4's third generation and well into the fourth-gen RAV4's tenure, Toyota sold an EV version based on the 2006–2012 RAV4. Believe it or not, but the third-generation RAV4 was actually not the first RAV4 to offer an all-electric variant (there was a second-generation spin-off first), and the 2012 version came loaded with an early Tesla powertrain (!) and a 42-kWh battery good for a mere 100 miles of driving range. Power output from the single motor (derived from one in the Model S but significantly detuned) stood at 154 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, routed to the front wheels via a single-speed transmission. This was good for a seven-second 0–60-mph time, according to Toyota, when the RAV4 EV was placed in its Sport drive mode. (The regular setting lengthened acceleration time to 8.6 seconds.) These were only offered in certain states, and can be picked out by their lack of an external spare tire, body-color grille delete panel (with goofy large "EV" lettering beneath the Toyota lettering), blue-tinged badges, and unique headlight internals. Actually, Sort Of! In a way, the 320-hp plug-in hybrid RAV4 GR Sport is an amalgamation of the third-generation RAV4's most powerful powertrain options. Today, four-cylinder engines have largely supplanted six-cylinder options in the compact and midsize vehicle segments, so the GR Sport PHEV's system being anchored by a heavily electrified four-cylinder engine not only follows that trend, but its e-motor support recalls the oddball Tesla-powered RAV4, as well. Like other plug-in-hybrid 2026 RAV4s, the GR Sport's system is 18-hp more powerful than the last-generation RAV4 PHEV. It combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors and a planetary-type continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) to power the front axle, along with a third electric motor that lives on the rear axle and spins the rear tires for on-demand all-wheel drive. The onboard battery can be charged at up to 11 kW on an AC home charger, but strangely, the GR Sport does not offer the same CCS-style DC fast-charging port as the lesser RAV4 XSE and Woodland PHEV trim levels. So, while the GR Sport is likely to be among the quicker RAV4s on sale later this year, that'll only apply to its straight-line speed—not its on-the-go charging speeds. Where the 2006–2012 RAV4 Sport featured cool 18-inch wheels and meaty, relatively low-profiled (for the time) all-season tires along with a firmed-up suspension and blacked-out trim, the 2026 RAV4 GR Sport goes ham sandwich on apparent track-readiness. It wears Dunlop Sportmaxx summer tires wrapped around 20-inch wheels that fill more of the fenders—their offset is wider than regular RAV4 wheels—and beefy brakes with red-painted calipers. The GR Sport's face is entirely different from the headlights down relative to other 2026 RAV4s, with a gaping lower intake and huge vents at each front corner. Out back, a wild spoiler sprouts from the top of the tailgate, and the lower bumper incorporates as much black trim as the nose. Inside there is a black-and-red color scheme, with red contrast stitching, sporty aluminum pedals, and heavily bolstered front seats not shared with other RAV4s. Will this GR Sport be the quickest factory RAV4 ever? Last year's RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid was capable of a relatively quick 5.5-second zero-to-60-mph time. With the GR Sport's stickier tires, hotter chassis setup, and the same 18-hp bump shared by other plug-in-hybrid 2026 RAV4s, we anticipate it will be. But just remember—it wouldn't be the first time the RAV4 delivered unexpected power and performance, even if we won't ever see a V-6 (or a Tesla-sourced motor) under the hood again.
