This is a Motormouth couple car review of the all-new 2026 Toyota RAV4 compact, hybrid and PHEV SUV.
Gone is the gas powertrain, Toyota is offering the new 2026 Toyota RAV4 as a hybrid and plug-in hybrid. We are driving the hybrid with a 2.5L 4-cylinder matched to an eCVT, it has the 5th generation hybrid system and gets a combined 236 horsepower. In Canada, standard AWD. In the US FWD and AWD options are available.
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 plug-in hybrid has a 2.5L 4 cylinder matched to an eCVT, it gets a combined 320 horsepower. It uses the 6th generation PHEV system with two electric motors and has 80 km/50 miles of range. That’s 20% more electric range for the plug-in hybrid because of a larger battery. Standard AWD. 22.7 kWh battery, up from 18.1 kWh.
The RAV4 has very similar dimensions to the outgoing model, it’s not any bigger. In fact the wheelbase is exactly the same. The only difference is a little less height compared to the 2025 model. The RAV4 is available in Core, Sport and Rugged styles including the first ever GR Sport RAV4 and a new look Woodland trim.
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Core design has a sleek, colour matched grille with Toyota’s signature hammerhead design and slim LED headlamps. In the rear, there are new LED taillamps and a larger window for improved visibiity giving the RAV4 a wider stance. Standard features include, LED headlamps, LED taillamps, 17” wheels, available 18” and 20” wheels and a temporary spare tire for both the hybrid and plug-in hybrid. Available features include LED fog lights. Ground clearance hasn’t been announced yet but the current RAV4 has an average of 8.4”.
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Woodland model has a more adventurous, outdoor look with the peak of the hammerhead front end slightly raised and it’s black, there’s a split upper and lower grille with integrated RIGID Industries LED lighting. This model is about half an inch higher because of the all-terrain tires, it has standard raised roof rails with cross bars. In Canada, the Woodland trim will be available with a hybrid powertrain and in the US, hybrid and plug-in hybrid.
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 GR Sport takes inspiration from motorsports, and it prioritizes handling with a GR Sport tuned suspension, sits 15 mm lower to the ground, enhanced body rigidity, wide tread all season tires and unique 20” wheels. It has a GR Matrix grille, front and rear spoilers for a more aggressive look. Two-tone exterior colour options are available. In Canada, SE and GR Sport trims are available with the plug-in hybrid powertrain. The XSE both hybrid and PHEV.
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 interior prioritizes functionality and practicality with user friendly technology with standard wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto, a 12.3” digital driver display and 10.5” touchscreen, available 12.9” touchscreen. It has the newest version of the Toyota multi-media system with improved voice assistant and quicker response times. New software called Arene. The RAV4 comes standard with cloth upholstery, available Softex. On certain models Toyota has added a new shift by wire system with a minimalist toggle switch, other models still have the traditional shifter. 5-USBC ports throughout the cabin.
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Woodland trim has an outdoor inspired cabin with patterned trim pieces, orange accents, Woodland branded mats and a new interior colour called Mineral. The Sport SE and XSE models have a micro suede and Softex upholstery combo with bright accents giving it a sportier feel. The GR Sport model adds GR badging, paddle shifters and aluminum sport pedals.
Available 2026 Toyota RAV4 features include a panoramic view monitor with 360-degree overhead view, front and rear parking assist, a head-up display, digital rear-view mirror, 9-speaker JBL sound system, wireless charger, 8-way power driver and passenger seats, driver seat lumbar support, driver seat memory, ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, a moonroof, panoramic sunroof, power tailgate and a power tailgate with kick sensor.
Andrea Instagram https://www.instagram.com/motormouth_andrea/
Zack Instagram https://www.instagram.com/motormouth_auto/
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