2026 Toyota RAV4 Unveiled With a Complete Hybrid Range and Up to 320 Horsepower
Toyota
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While crossovers may not ignite the passion of car enthusiasts, the debut of the all-new 2026 Toyota RAV4 is certainly a significant event. Although it has a somewhat unexciting reputation, the Japanese manufacturer has opted to embrace the more enjoyable aspects of driving with this new model, reintroducing the off-road-oriented Woodland trim and adding a sporty variant infused with some GR enhancements for this upcoming generation.
Toyota is categorizing the 2026 RAV4 into three trims: Core, Rugged, and Sport. These classifications outline the fundamental design and mechanical set-up of each model, though they don’t entirely replace Toyota’s established trim hierarchy. The Core serves as the basic package, while the Rugged and Sport trims offer two different paths to choose from. Make your selection wisely, as this is merely the starting point for your RAV4 journey.
All Core models come equipped with the standard Hybrid powertrain, offering options for both front-wheel and all-wheel drive based on the trim. The Rugged variant will be launched initially as the Woodland, which can be configured with either hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains but only with all-wheel drive.
Both the hybrid and plug-in powertrains utilize Toyota’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. Front-wheel-drive hybrid models deliver 226 horsepower, whereas the all-wheel-drive versions increase that to 236. The plug-in hybrid boasts a more powerful electric motor, achieving a combined output of 320 horsepower—over 15 more than the previous model.
The 2026 plug-in variant also sees some enhancements for convenience. It not only gains extra power but is also compatible with higher-capacity chargers. A new CCS port enables DC fast charging, and the standard dual-voltage cable now supports 11 kW on a regular level 2 AC setup. Toyota aims for the plug-in to offer 50 miles of electric range (up from 42 in the current version), although this will be confirmed once the EPA approves it.
2026 RAV4 GR Sport
The Sport trim is available with both HEV and PHEV engines, featuring either front- or all-wheel drive, and includes a unique model: the RAV4 GR Sport. If you’re sensing hints of Lexus F-Sport, you’re on the right track. Choosing this package mandates the PHEV powertrain (the most powerful option) and comes standard with AWD. It features a GR-tuned suspension, chassis improvements for added rigidity, distinctive wheels, and numerous GR-specific visual enhancements. Additionally, it comes equipped with, drumroll please, summer tires.
Toyota has also increased the RAV4’s towing capacity for 2026. The hybrid XLE, Woodland, SE, XSE, Limited, and PHEV SE, XSE, and Woodland trims with AWD can tow up to 3,500 pounds. All front-wheel-drive models (along with the LE AWD) are limited to 1,750 pounds. No towing specifications were provided for the plug-in; the 2025 model has a towing capacity of 2,500 pounds.
Since the RAV4 has not changed in size, the cabin remains essentially the same. A standard 10.5-inch touchscreen will be available, with an upgrade to a 12.9-inch version on higher trims. Toyota has joined the trend of digital controls, moving climate settings to a bar at the bottom of the infotainment screen. This decision raises some concerns, especially following recent reports that other manufacturers are retreating from this approach.
No matter which infotainment screen you choose, it will be paired with a 12.3-inch digital cluster. If you opt for the Limited hybrid or XSE plug-in, a heads-up display (HUD) is also included. Various interior finishes will be offered, with both the Woodland and GR Sport receiving trim-specific embellishments. The GR Sport features embroidered “GR” logos in the headrests and steering wheel, paddle shifters, and aluminum sport pedals. A nine-speaker JBL audio upgrade is also available.
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2026 Toyota RAV4 Unveiled With a Complete Hybrid Range and Up to 320 Horsepower
The next-generation RAV4 features a complete hybrid range for all trims, a new boxy design, and an impressive GR-tuned sport variant that delivers an extraordinary 320 hp.