Toyota has taken the wraps off the sixth-generation RAV4, which is set to land in Australia in the first half of 2026. Among the highlights are the debut of a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain for the local market and the introduction of a sharper-looking GR Sport variant. The 2026 Toyota RAV4 is set to arrive early next year.
Although it rides on an evolution of the same GA-K platform as the current model, the 2026 Toyota RAV4 brings sweeping updates inside and out – and under the skin. Aussie buyers will have a lot to look forward to, it seems, with buyers being able to choose from Toyota’s latest generation of hybrid and plug-in hybrid tech, with both front- and all-wheel drive options available across the range.
The hybrid models feature Toyota’s fifth-gen hybrid system, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with electric motors. Despite Toyota USA quoting higher figures, the Australian-spec models – both FWD and AWD – are rated at 143kW, slightly down on the outgoing versions which made 160kW and 163kW respectively.
“The All-New RAV4 Hybrid will deliver enhanced driving performance and dynamics compared to the current generation vehicle,” said a spokesperson from Toyota Australia.
“Power outputs differ from global markets due to Australian light vehicle emission standards (Euro 6d).”
Here’s hoping the new 2026 Toyota RAV4 is an even more engaging car to drive than its predecessor. Alos notable is the step up in the PHEV department. A beefier 150kW front electric motor and a larger 22.7kWh battery enable an electric-only range of up to 100km on the WLTP cycle. Very nice indeed.
For the first time, a front-wheel-drive plug-in model is available, offering 201kW of system output. The all-wheel-drive PHEV packs more punch with 227kW and accelerates from 0–100km/h in just 5.8 seconds – a notable jump over the 7.3 seconds required for the FWD version.
Charging speeds seem to be rather decent with the RAV4 PHEV supporting 50kW DC fast charging, taking the battery from 10 to 80 per cent in about half an hour. There’s also 11kW AC charging, which can top it up fully in as little as three hours, much better than the 3.5kw charging speeds we have seen in other PHEVs.
While the mechanical foundation hasn’t drastically changed, the exterior certainly has. All-new sheet metal gives the RAV4 a more angular and aggressive look – a clear visual departure from both its predecessor and the sleeker C-HR+ electric SUV launched earlier this year. That sharper design might not win over everyone, particularly those after a conservative look, but it signals a more adventurous direction for the nameplate.
Inside, the rugged look carries through, with a wide centre console that houses dual USB-C ports, space for two smartphones, cupholders, and a solid spread of physical buttons for climate and drive mode controls. Tech is front and centre too, thanks to a 12.3-inch digital instrument display and a 12.9-inch touchscreen running Toyota’s Arene-based multimedia system. Expect better visuals, a new customisable home screen, and over-the-air update capability.
Toyota’s active safety suite has been expanded across the RAV4 range globally. The 2026 Toyota RAV4 now includes front cross-traffic alert, a surround-view camera with a 3D perspective, and even an automated lane change function when Lane Tracing Assist and adaptive cruise control are engaged. There’s also a remote parking feature that can be controlled from your smartphone.
A new GR Sport trim joins the lineup, tapping into Toyota’s Gazoo Racing DNA. Set to be offered exclusively in Australia as an all-wheel-drive PHEV, it adds visual aggression and chassis tweaks rather than performance upgrades.
Outside, it wears a distinctive black honeycomb grille, a unique bumper design with repositioned fog lights, and 20-inch twin-spoke alloy wheels. GR badging at both ends reinforces its identity.
Inside, the GR Sport treatment continues with an all-black interior, accented by red stitching, aluminium pedals, and GR branding on the steering wheel and front seats – which are upholstered in a mix of suede and synthetic leather.
Though its powertrains mirror the regular PHEV models, the GR Sport benefits from revised suspension damping, a stiffer rear brace, a retuned steering setup, and a 20mm wider track – all aimed at delivering a more planted and dynamic driving feel.
The RAV4 family is also growing overseas. In the U.S., a new Woodland Edition brings a more rugged flavour, complete with all-terrain tyres, raised ride height, standard roof rails with crossbars, and exclusive trim and colour options. Whether this variant will make it to Australia remains to be seen.
Stay tuned to DiscoverAuto for the latest on the 2026 Toyota RAV4, including our first steer in the coming months.
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