Toyota Motor North America unveiled the sixth-generation RAV4 on, offering a comprehensive redesign and reaffirming the model’s status as a cornerstone of the American SUV market. The 2026 RAV4 introduced a trio of distinct styling approaches—Core, Rugged, and Sport—and signaled Toyota’s growing commitment to electrification by offering only hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains for the new model year.
The announcement marked the debut of the first-ever RAV4 GR SPORT in the United States and a new look for the outdoor-oriented Woodland grade. Both models highlighted Toyota’s ambition to blend utility, sportiness, and sustainability across its product line.
“With three distinct styles, two electrified powertrains, and available front- or all-wheel drive, the all-new RAV4 offers something for everyone,” said David Christ, group vice president and general manager of the Toyota Division.
The 2026 RAV4’s exterior is redesigned around Toyota’s now-signature “hammerhead” front end, with the Core design featuring smooth body panels, paint-matched grilles, and wheel sizes ranging from 17 to 20 inches. Rugged models, such as the new standalone Woodland grade, adopted raised hoods, all-terrain tires, integrated off-road lighting, and roof rails, enhancing the SUV’s go-anywhere appeal.
The GR SPORT, designed with input from Toyota’s motorsports division, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing, brings aggressive styling, stiffer chassis tuning, and a plug-in hybrid system generating up to 320 horsepower. Unique spoilers, sport pedals, and paddle shifters completed the performance aesthetic. The XSE and SE grades rounded out the Sport category, offering hybrid or plug-in hybrid options with blue accent stitching and available two-tone paint.
Under the hood, Toyota offers two electrified options: a fifth-generation hybrid system with improved power and a newly developed plug-in hybrid system. Hybrid models now generated up to 236 horsepower on AWD variants and, for the first time, offered front-wheel drive on select trims. Plug-in hybrid versions increased range to an estimated 50 miles on electric power alone and delivered a maximum output of 320 horsepower.
The plug-in variants also featured fast-charging capabilities on XSE and Woodland trims, with DC fast charging allowing a 10 to 80 percent charge in approximately 30 minutes. Toyota engineers utilized new silicon carbide semiconductors in the front axle to increase efficiency and reduce the size of electrical components.
Inside, the 2026 RAV4 reflected Toyota’s push into software-defined vehicles. It’s the first model to adopt Toyota’s Arene software platform—developed by Woven by Toyota—which underpinned both the upgraded Toyota Audio Multimedia system and the Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 suite.
A new standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster offered customizable displays, while an optional 12.9-inch touchscreen organized climate and multimedia controls into a cohesive design. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, alongside dual Bluetooth phone connectivity. Top-tier models featured a JBL® Premium Audio system, shift-by-wire gear selector, and head-up display.
Interior materials vary by trim, with SofTex®, microsuede, and BRIN•NAUB® seating in higher-end models. The Woodland grade adds red-orange accents and weatherproof floor mats, while the GR SPORT model features GR branding on the steering wheel and headrests.
Color options expanded as well, with new additions like Urban Rock and Meteor Shower joining fan favorites like Ruby Flare Pearl and Wind Chill Pearl. Two-tone configurations—such as Supersonic Red with a black roof—further differentiated the lineup.
Built on the TNGA-K platform, the sixth-generation RAV4 benefited from improved rigidity and structural reinforcements that enhanced ride comfort and noise suppression. Toyota also increased towing capacity to 3,500 pounds on select hybrid and plug-in hybrid AWD grades, doubling down on practicality for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
The 2026 RAV4 models were expected to begin arriving at U.S. dealerships later this year. Pricing would be announced closer to launch, Toyota officials said.
When it first arrived in 1996, the RAV4 helped define the compact crossover segment.