Update (April 7, 2025): ‘Design’ section updated with new illustration and additional observations.
The Toyota RAV4, the brand’s best-selling model in the U.S., and the most popular SUV in America, will be redesigned for MY2026. As it is today, there should be two new electrified RAV4 models on offer – the Hybrid and the Plug-in Hybrid. We expect the Hybrid to play a significant role in the U.S. and other markets, while PHEV sales are anticipated to reach new highs due to growing interest in this powertrain.
Our expectations for the new Toyota hybrid and plug-in SUVs is based on our experience with the RAV4, recent product updates from Toyota, media reports, spy shots, and the latest trends in the compact SUV segment.
Design
Earlier this year, Toyota started testing the next-gen RAV4 in production body in Japan and the U.S. The upcoming model has a more slender design in line with some of the company’s recent road-focused, unibody models like the bZ4X, fifth-gen Prius, and ninth-gen Camry.
As shown in our exclusive renders, it sports the new hammerhead shark-like front end with C-shaped DRLs housing vertical LED projector modules, and polygonal wings on the bumper. The traditional grille is replaced with honeycomb-like perforations for a distinct and adventurous look. A silver small skid plate adds contrast to the fascia.
The side profile is similar, with trapezoidal wheel arches, conventional door handles, a pronounced Y-shaped crease across the doors, muscular fenders, and flush roof rails. The windows and quarter glass panels have been redesigned, presenting a curvier greenhouse.
At the rear, the license plate garnish has a new, rectangular shape and the combination lamps seem to be sleeker. A large roof spoiler and side fins adjacent to the windscreen enhance the vehicle’s aerodynamics.
Specifications
Dimensions
On July 19, 2024, Automotive News presented an overview of the next-gen RAV4. Cooper Erickson, Senior Vice President of Product, BEV, and Mobility Planning and Strategy, has hinted that the size and packaging of the RAV4 are unlikely to change considerably in future iterations. While he wouldn’t confirm specific details, he did mention that a “dramatic change” is not planned.
When the fifth-generation RAV4 was introduced in 2018, it made the transition to the TNGA-K platform. For the upcoming sixth generation, Toyota is set to continue using this base with modernization. We expect minimal changes to the dimensions, meaning passenger and cargo space will remain similar to today’s SUV. For reference, the current model is 180.9 inches long, 73.0 inches wide, with a wheelbase of 105.9 inches, and luggage space of 37.5 cu.ft behind the second row.
NVH
The RAV4 Hybrid has faced criticism for its lack of refinement. The hybrid system is also known for being noisy. When combined with wind noise, it can be unsettling during long-distance travel. Toyota engineers are likely to have taken this feedback into account during the development of the next-generation RAV4 Hybrid. The redesigned SUV is expected to feature improvements in areas such as braking distance, handling, and overall efficiency.
THS 5
Toyota should offer the next-gen RAV4 Hybrid with a 2.5-liter gas engine and the fifth-generation Toyota Hybrid System (THS 5), similar to the 2025 Toyota Camry. The engine should get assistance from two electric propulsion motors, one at the front and one at the back. The rear propulsion motor should also enable an eAWD drivetrain layout, giving the SUV additional traction when required on wet or snow-clad roads or while cornering.
Together, the gas engine and two electric motors should produce close to 235 horsepower. We expect at least one of the trims to deliver an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 40 MPG or more (combined). For reference, the current RAV4 Hybrid, with its 219 hp powertrain, can achieve an EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 39 MPG (combined).
We believe there’s a strong possibility that Toyota may go hybrid-only with the next-gen RAV4 in the U.S., ditching the gas model. The company has seen a sustained increase in the share of hybrids, and was bold enough to launch the Camry exclusively as a hybrid, with fantastic results.
Next-gen RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid
In an exclusive report on October 1, 2024, Drive reported that for the next-gen RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid, the current 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine will continue, with refinements expected in the electric motors and battery pack. For reference, in the MY2025 Plug-in Hybrid, the system develops 302 hp, offering drivers 42 miles of pure-electric driving range (Toyota estimate), with a 0-60 mph time of 5.5 seconds.
Features
Toyota should offer the 2026 RAV4 Hybrid with features like a panoramic sunroof, gesture tailgate, digital key, all-digital instrument cluster, Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment system, USB Type-C ports, 12V/120W auxiliary power outlets, Qi-compatible wireless phone charger, and 360-degree camera system.
We expect the redesigned model to feature a more comfortable front seat retaining the 8-way power adjustment with memory function. Based on our experience with the current-gen RAV4 models, which offered excellent space levels, this trait should remain unchanged in the new version. Also expected to change is the steering wheel, which could adopt a similar design to the Crown and the 2025 Camry.
Safety
The next-gen model should upgrade to the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes seven features:
- Proactive Driving Assist
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Road Sign Assist
- Automatic High Beams
Price & Release Date
The RAV4 is produced in three factories in North America: Woodstock (Ontario, Canada), Cambridge (Ontario, Canada), and Georgetown (Kentucky, USA). The prices of the 2026 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid in the U.S. may start at just over USD 32,000, while the 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid is expected to begin at USD 44,000. We’re expecting initial cars to reach dealers toward the end of 2025.
Woodland Edition expected to continue
Toyota is expected to continue the Woodland Edition in the future RAV4, our pick in the line-up for its balance of looks, features, and capability. Enhancements include a new two-tone paint option, rain-sensing wipers with de-icer, and a 1.25-inch activity mount. Inside, optional heated front seats and a leather-trimmed steering wheel are included in the Weather Package.
The RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition, in two-tone paint, comes with Army Green or Ice Cap base colors, and Midnight Black Metallic roof paint. The big attraction is the 18-inch, six-spoke bronze-colored TRD flow-formed alloy wheels, wrapped in Falken Wildpeak AT tires. It would be interesting to see how the Woodland Edition evolves with the next-gen RAV4.
2026 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid FAQs
What is the 2026 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid’s release date?
The next-gen RAV4 Hybrid is expected at U.S. dealers in the second half of 2025.
What will be the 2026 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid’s price?
The base 2026 RAV4 Hybrid could be priced at just over $32,000.
Which models will be the 2026 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid’s rivals?
2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid, Subaru Forester Hybrid, Hyundai Tucson Hybrid & Kia Sportage Hybrid.
Featured Image: TopElectricSUV’s exclusive illustration of the next-gen RAV4 based on spy media.
International Automotive News Editor since 2014, covering global motor shows, industry events, and test-driving various vehicles, with a focus on hybrid and electric cars in recent years.
