New RAV4 GR Sport Offers Greater Power Than a GR Corolla | Carscoops

      The sportiest version of Toyota's new compact SUV comes solely with the plug-in hybrid system, generating a total output of 320 hp.

      Toyota has unveiled a GR Sport trim for the new 2026 RAV4 lineup.

      Exclusively available as a plug-in hybrid, this model features a GR-tuned chassis and enhanced steering.

      It is equipped with GR emblems, a prominent rear wing, and custom 20-inch alloy wheels.

      When we think of SUVs, the “sporty” aspect often seems secondary, overshadowed by cargo capacity and roof rails. Toyota’s popular RAV4 has long epitomized practicality rather than performance. With the introduction of the 2026 sixth-generation RAV4, Toyota is making an effort to inject some sportiness into its offering with the GR Sport trim. This variant brings aesthetic and chassis improvements, establishing it as America’s only genuinely sporty option in its category.

      The new 2026 RAV4 range includes standard, Sport, and the rugged Woodland trims, providing customers with more choices. The GR Sport shares its body kit with the Sport trim but enhances it with a more assertive stance.

      The most noticeable updates are found on the exterior, which features a revised grille pattern akin to that of the high-performance GR Corolla, a splitter, and, most notably, one of the largest roof spoilers observed on a compact SUV. The 20-inch alloy wheels nicely fill the trapezoidal wheel arches, enhancing the vehicle's athletic appearance. For those desiring a standout look, the GR Sport is offered in an exclusive combination of Supersonic Red with a Black roof.

      Inside, Toyota maintains a straightforward design. Although the cabin does not undergo significant upgrades, it includes GR-branded details such as logos on the headrests and steering wheel, paddle shifters, and aluminum pedals.

      Toyota asserts that the RAV4 GR Sport was developed with insights from their Gazoo Racing engineers. While it's uncertain if the aerodynamic features contribute anything beyond aesthetic appeal, the GR enhancements extend beyond the surface. The SUV is equipped with a GR-tuned suspension, improved power steering, and increased body stiffness. While we don’t expect it to perform like a hot hatch, these enhancements may offer a more engaging driving experience for those who value dynamics.

      This model features Toyota's more powerful plug-in hybrid configuration, which combines a 2.5-liter engine with dual electric motors to produce a robust 320 horsepower (239 kW / 324 PS). For perspective, this is 20 more horsepower than the 2025 GR Corolla, which delivers 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque from its turbocharged 3-cylinder engine. It also comes standard with all-wheel drive, although Toyota has yet to disclose any performance figures, so we will need to see how it performs in a 0-60 mph test.

      In North America, the GR Sport is making its debut, while Europeans have been familiar with a GR Sport version of the previous-generation RAV4 since 2022. This European model featured more understated styling changes but also sportier suspension adjustments. In addition to the RAV4, European customers could access sportier trims of the Yaris Cross, C-HR, and Corolla Cross.

      Last year, Tomoya Takahashi, president of Toyota Gazoo Racing, hinted at the possibility of a full-fledged GR SUV. He acknowledged the company's limited resources for new product development, leaving open speculation about which model might be next for a complete GR overhaul. Could the RAV4 be the next one? Only time will tell.