The Toyota RAV4 has long been one of the most popular SUVs worldwide, and anticipation for its next generation has been sky-high. With its blend of reliability, efficiency, and practicality, the RAV4 continues to dominate its segment. Now, we finally have an exciting first glimpse at the 2026 model, revealing significant upgrades and a bold new design.
Radical New Design Inside and Out
The 2026 RAV4 features a striking redesign, both externally and internally. It also receives drivetrain upgrades to improve both efficiency and performance.
This new model shares similarities with the latest Toyota Camry, which, while based on the previous generation, underwent extensive changes. Here’s everything you need to know about the 2026 Toyota RAV4.
Bold Exterior Upgrades
One of the biggest changes to the RAV4 comes in the form of its exterior design. A recently leaked image from a dealer event in China gives us the clearest view yet of the 2026 model. While the authenticity of the source isn’t officially confirmed, the image aligns closely with spy photos seen from the U.S. and Japan, leading many to believe this is the real deal.
At first glance, the new RAV4 resembles other Toyota models, such as the C-HR and Camry, featuring Toyota’s signature ‘Hammerhead’ headlights. Hopefully, these headlights will avoid issues seen in the Camry, where debris tends to get trapped behind them.
The front fascia also includes a new honeycomb grille, while the side profile exhibits a more dynamic look, with sharper creases and a bold character line. The angular wheel arches add to its rugged appeal, reinforcing its off-road capabilities.
What’s particularly interesting is that none of the exterior panels appear to be carried over from the current generation. This suggests that Toyota has completely redesigned the RAV4’s exterior, rather than simply giving it a minor facelift.
The model is known as the ‘Wildlander’ in China, where the dealer event took place, so there is a possibility that some of these design elements are specific to that market. However, the similarities to global spy shots suggest that this design will be the one we see worldwide.
Expected Launch Timeline
Toyota has yet to officially unveil the 2026 RAV4, but it is expected to make its debut around April. A likely venue for the reveal is the Shanghai Motor Show, where we will be in attendance. However, it could also make an appearance at the New York Motor Show.
If the timeline holds, we can expect the new RAV4 to arrive in Australia by 2026, with deliveries likely starting in mid-to-late 2026.
Under the Hood: New Hybrid Powertrain
The 2026 RAV4 will adopt Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid system, similar to the new Camry. It will be powered by a 2.5L naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine running on the Atkinson cycle, delivering 170 kW—an increase of 10 kW over the current model. While this is not a massive jump, Toyota is expected to improve torque as well, though specific figures remain unknown.
Both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations will be available in Australia. If you’re curious about how this drivetrain performs, you can check out our review of the new Toyota Camry, which shares the same system.
The new hybrid system is also expected to be more efficient, potentially achieving around 4.0L/100 km. However, the real game-changer could be the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant. The current overseas model produces an impressive 225 kW, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in about 5.7 seconds, while offering 70 km of real-world electric-only range.
Plug-In Hybrid Potential
Plug-in hybrids have gained significant traction in Australia, particularly due to government incentives that make them more affordable. With competitors like the BYD Sealion 6 entering the market, Toyota has a strong incentive to introduce a PHEV version of the RAV4.
Additionally, rumors suggest that the next-generation RAV4 Prime may incorporate BYD’s DMI technology, which boasts exceptional efficiency—potentially achieving 2.9L/100 km when using the petrol engine.
Would you be interested in a RAV4 Prime with BYD’s hybrid technology? Let us know in the comments!
Upgraded Interior and Tech Features
Moving inside, the new RAV4 is expected to receive significant upgrades, borrowing from the latest Camry. The biggest highlight is the inclusion of dual 12.3-inch displays, offering an ultra-modern infotainment experience. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will be standard, providing seamless smartphone integration.
Beyond the tech upgrades, Toyota is also expected to enhance interior materials. The new Camry features premium cloth materials with high-quality stitching, which may carry over to the RAV4. The center console is likely to be redesigned for better storage utilization—a key priority for RAV4 buyers. Higher trims will also include ventilated seats and ambient lighting, adding to the premium feel.
Cargo space should remain competitive, although Toyota has made some questionable design decisions in other models, so we’ll have to wait and see how they handle storage in the new RAV4.
