Toyota is preparing to redefine the in-car technology experience with the debut of its enhanced Toyota Audio Multimedia system, which will first appear in the all-new 2026 RAV4 — America’s best-selling compact SUV — before expanding to other vehicles across its lineup. The update underscores Toyota’s commitment to incremental innovation, pairing driver-centric design with a stronger emphasis on performance, connectivity and personalization.
The development of the upgraded system took place under Toyota’s North American R&D and Connected Technologies teams, in collaboration with Toyota Connected North America, Toyota Motor Corporation and Woven by Toyota. The result is a multimedia platform that not only reflects customer and dealer feedback, but also benefits from continuous over-the-air updates — a key step toward Toyota’s long-term goal of fully software-defined vehicles. “The teams behind our new Audio Multimedia system have worked together to build something we’re proud to bring to the RAV4 this year,” said Brian Inouye, chief engineer at Toyota Motor North America. “These enhancements were driven by both function and performance, and we’re excited for customers to experience an in-cabin environment like never before.”
The new multimedia system introduces 5G connectivity powered by AT&T, expanding coverage across North America and enabling faster speeds and new digital services. Built on the open-source Automotive Grade Linux platform and integrated with Woven by Toyota’s Arene software toolkit, the system marks Toyota’s first move toward vehicles that can evolve through software updates. The technology is designed to form the backbone of future advances in safety, security and user experience across global markets.
Inside the cabin, drivers will notice a cleaner, more intuitive interface on the RAV4’s standard 10.5-inch or available 12.9-inch touchscreen. Graphics are sharper, icons are clearer, and response times have been boosted through more powerful onboard computing. A customizable home screen allows users to tailor their dashboard using widget-based layouts for navigation, drive mode, audio, connected devices and weather. The always-accessible Quick Control Menu provides rapid access to functions like Bluetooth pairing, screen brightness and advanced driver assistance features.
The voice assistant — summoned with a casual “Hey Toyota” — has been overhauled for faster, more natural interaction. Thanks to an embedded on-device system, common commands such as adjusting climate settings, changing music, or checking trip information now work instantly, without needing a cloud connection. When paired with a Drive Connect trial or subscription, drivers can also access cloud-based navigation, points of interest and real-time weather data.
Navigation has been redesigned to integrate directly with the digital gauge cluster, allowing maps and turn-by-turn directions to appear in the multi-information display behind the steering wheel — a first for Toyota. A Drive Connect subscription adds live traffic information and real-time destination assistance from human agents.
A new built-in Drive Recorder feature eliminates the need for aftermarket dashcams by using the vehicle’s external cameras to capture and store clips automatically or on demand. Recordings can be reviewed on the car’s display or downloaded via USB.
Electric and plug-in hybrid drivers will find a new “EV Domain” interface on the head unit, a hub for managing charging schedules, setting charge limits, and planning routes with charging stops. The feature integrates seamlessly with the Toyota app, allowing users to monitor and control charging from their phones.
Remote Connect capabilities have been expanded, enabling app-based control of functions such as headlights, windows and trunk access. Entertainment options also receive a major update, with SiriusXM’s 360L platform delivering personalized, on-demand audio content and integrated Spotify streaming for drivers who link existing accounts.
Together, these changes represent a sweeping evolution of Toyota’s digital ecosystem — one that blends the company’s meticulous engineering with a forward-looking approach to connectivity. With the 2026 RAV4 leading the way, Toyota aims to make its cabins as dynamic and intelligent as the vehicles themselves.