2026 Toyota RAV4 Overview
It’s not every day Toyota introduces a new RAV4. As one of Australia’s best-selling SUVs, the sixth-generation RAV4 arrives with a refreshed design, updated interior, and major powertrain revisions. Although it shares the same platform as before, Toyota claims this to be an all-new generation with efficiency improvements, new technology, and sharper styling.
But is the 2026 Toyota RAV4 worth your hard-earned money? Let’s dive into the details.
Toyota has officially released the pricing for the new lineup, which has seen a noticeable increase across variants.
GX 2WD: Starts at $45,990 (up nearly $4,000 from the previous model)
XSE Plug-in Hybrid (2WD): $58,840
XSE AWD Plug-in Hybrid: $63,340
GR Sport AWD Plug-in Hybrid: $66,340
After adding on-road costs, the top-end variants exceed $70,000.
For comparison, the BYD Sealion 6 Premium AWD, offering more power, torque, and battery capacity, is priced at just $52,990 drive-away, making the RAV4’s plug-in hybrids among the pricier options in the segment.
Powertrain Options
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 comes with a mix of hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) options.
Hybrid Powertrain (2.5L)
Output: 143 kW (down from 163 kW previously)
Fifth-generation hybrid system for better efficiency
Improved electric motors and smoother power delivery
Same TNGA platform with enhanced rigidity
While the drop in power may disappoint some, Toyota claims similar real-world performance due to drivetrain optimization.
Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)
Available in both FWD (200 kW) and AWD (227 kW)
Equipped with a 22.7 kWh lithium-ion battery
Electric-only range up to 100 km
Delivers strong acceleration and efficiency
AWD version features a small rear electric motor for better traction
Exterior Design: Bold and Boxy
Dimensionally similar to its predecessor, the new RAV4 now features Toyota’s Hammerhead design language, giving it a tougher, more angular stance.
Front
Slim LED headlights with sharp daytime running lights
Enlarged grille and integrated Toyota badge
Redesigned bumper for a sportier, off-road-ready look
Side Profile
Boxy, upright design for a rugged SUV character
18-inch black alloy wheels (Edge trim)
Keyless entry, privacy glass, and durable plastic cladding
However, no 360° camera is offered even on higher trims
Rear
The rear profile closely resembles SUVs like the Subaru Forester and Nissan X-Trail, featuring:
Bold RAV4 lettering
Full LED taillights
Hybrid and AWD badges
Practical tailgate with 516 litres of boot space (slightly down from 540L before)
Full-size spare tire under the floor
Toyota also confirmed the GR Sport variant for Australia featuring a 10 mm wider track for improved handling.
Interior and Comfort
Step inside the 2026 Toyota RAV4, and you’ll immediately notice a more premium and futuristic cabin layout.
Soft-touch dashboard with rugged accents
Redesigned seats that feel more lounge-like and comfortable
Center console with removable tray for added storage flexibility
Cupholders, large glovebox, and smart storage solutions
However, Toyota’s decision to integrate climate controls into the infotainment system instead of physical buttons has divided opinions.
Infotainment and Tech
13-inch touchscreen with Toyota’s latest infotainment system
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Cloud-based features such as remote start, window control, and vehicle tracking
New digital instrument cluster for the driver
Optional wireless phone charger (lacks cooling)
USB-C charging ports: 15W in base trims, up to 45W in higher variants
Rear Seat Space
The RAV4 remains a practical family SUV with plenty of legroom, headroom, and reclining rear seats.
Ample leg and toe room for adults
Rear air vents and dual USB-C ports
Fold-down armrest with cup holders
High-quality materials throughout the cabin
Safety and Driving Tech
The 2026 RAV4 comes equipped with the latest version of Toyota Safety Sense, including:
Lane support and driver monitoring systems
Adaptive cruise control
Automatic emergency braking
Blind-spot monitoring
Traffic sign recognition
Toyota says the new system has been fine-tuned for smoother intervention, though final impressions will come once the car is driven on public roads.
Verdict: Should You Buy the New RAV4?
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 builds on a winning formula with a smarter interior, bold new styling, and improved hybrid efficiency. While prices are noticeably higher and the base engine loses some power, Toyota compensates with advanced technology and stronger electrified options.
If you value efficiency, reliability, and tech-forward practicality, the new RAV4 remains a top contender in its class, though competitors like BYD and Haval offer more value for less money.
2026 Toyota RAV4 – Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the price of the 2026 Toyota RAV4 in Australia?
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 starts at $45,990 for the GX 2WD variant, while the top-spec GR Sport AWD Plug-in Hybrid costs around $66,340 before on-road expenses.
2. What are the key engine and hybrid options available?
The RAV4 is available with a 2.5L fifth-generation hybrid engine producing 143 kW, and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option with 200 kW (FWD) and 227 kW (AWD) power outputs. The PHEV features a 22.7 kWh battery offering up to 100 km electric-only range.
3. What are the major design changes in the new RAV4?
The 2026 model adopts Toyota’s Hammerhead design language with a more boxy and bold appearance, new LED headlamps, a redesigned grille, and improved rear taillight styling. The SUV also features a 10 mm wider track in the GR Sport variant for better stability.
4. How is the interior and infotainment system of the 2026 Toyota RAV4?
Inside, it features a premium cabin layout with soft-touch materials, redesigned seats, and a new 13-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also includes a digital instrument cluster and multiple USB-C charging ports (up to 45W).
5. What safety features does the 2026 Toyota RAV4 offer?
The SUV is equipped with the latest Toyota Safety Sense package that includes adaptive cruise control, lane support, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and traffic sign recognition. It also introduces a driver monitoring system for enhanced safety.
6. What is the boot space in the 2026 RAV4?
The new RAV4 offers 516 litres of boot space, slightly reduced from the previous model’s 540 litres, and includes a full-size spare tire under the floor for practicality.
7. Is the 2026 Toyota RAV4 worth buying?
Yes, if you value efficiency, reliability, and advanced hybrid technology. Though it’s more expensive than some competitors, it offers a premium interior, smarter tech, and proven Toyota reliability.
