America’s best-selling SUV, the Toyota RAV4, will be redesigned for the 2026 model year. While Toyota will be tempted to introduce electrification as standard, like it did with the 2025 Camry, the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid variant (formerly ‘Prime’) is set to play an increasingly prominent role.
Here’s everything that has been reported, and our expectations from the next-gen Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid, which we reviewed in the earlier model year.
2.5L PHEV system
While Toyota has developed a new 1.5L engine that’s compatible with electrification, that system looks to have been reserved for smaller cars like the next-gen Corolla and Corolla Cross. Japan’s BestCarWeb reports that the next-gen RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid will stick with its proven 2.5-liter inline-4 ‘Dynamic Force’ engine.
In our experience, this powertrain balances performance, efficiency, and reliability. We expect the proven engine will pair with enhanced electric motors, an updated battery pack, and quicker charging, building on the current model’s 302 hp, 42-mile electric-only range, and 5.5-second 0-60 mph sprint.
Expect the incoming model to return around 40 mpg (combined). BestCarWeb has also learned what we knew earlier, that the sixth-gen RAV4 will ride on an improved version of the TNGA-K platform.
Areas for improvement
The 2.5L Plug-in Hybrid system in the current RAV4 delivers brisk acceleration, a practical 2,500 lbs. of towing, and 42 miles of electric range, which is handy for everyday commutes, eliminating gas station stops. The electronic all-wheel drive system provides good traction in adverse conditions. However, cabin NVH levels fall short of competitors, and the transition between electric and hybrid modes is an area Toyota needs to polish in the next iteration.
Design
Design-wise, the next-gen RAV4 is set to embody Toyota’s latest styling language, with a few surprises. As shown in our exclusive illustrations, a bold hammerhead shark-like front with C-shaped LED daytime running lights, polygonal bumper wings, and honeycomb perforations replacing the traditional grille will define the front.
Trapezoidal wheel arches and muscular fenders will add a more adventurous character, while a curvier greenhouse and flush roof rails aim to modernize the look. Spy shots reveal sleeker combination lamps, a rectangular license plate garnish, and a large roof spoiler at the rear. The Plug-in Hybrid will also have tell-tale badges, and we’re imagining it with chrome embellishment on the front, and special wheels for differentiation.
Interior
Inside, we expect the new RAV4 PHEV with the upgraded Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment system, premium sound system, fully-digital instrument panel, a panoramic glass roof, digital rear view mirror, digital key, 360-degree camera, heated front & rear seats, and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (upgraded from TSS 2.5+) with advanced driver-assistance features like Proactive Driving Assist and Lane Tracing Assist.
Price & Release Date
Toyota may adopt a staggered approach with the RAV4 variants, prioritizing the hybrid and gas (if they’re planning one) versions which are the volume spinners. We’re expecting to learn about the roll out strategy later this year. As for the pricing, expect the new RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid to begin at around USD 45,000, unless import tariffs from the Donald Trump administration become a factor.
Featured image: TopElectricSUV’s rendering of the 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
