Big news for Aussie SUV lovers—Toyota has officially taken the wraps off the 2026 RAV4! It gets the latest plug-in hybrid (PHEV) technology and it will be offered for the first time in Australia. The new Toyota RAV4 sports sharper styling, upgraded tech, and even a GR Sport variant for those who like their hybrids with a side of performance.
What’s got everyone talking?
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Toyota RAV4 Core (Prototype)
- Next-Gen Tech & Safety – 12.9-inch touchscreen, autonomous lane changes & 3D surround-view cameras.
- First-ever RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) for Australia – Up to 100km EV-only range and DC fast charging!
- Sharper styling with distinct fascia for Core and Adventure grades.
- New GR Sport grade – Sportier looks, tuned suspension & PHEV-only power.
What’s new in the 2026 Toyota RAV4?
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All-new Toyota RAV4’s interior (overseas model shown)
While it rides on an evolution of Toyota’s TNGA-K platform (used in the current-gen RAV4), almost everything else has been reimagined. The exterior design takes a bolder turn, with sharper body lines, a more angular profile, and a GR Sport variant that leans into Toyota’s motorsport DNA.
Inside, the cabin gets a rugged-yet-modern overhaul. You’ll find a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster paired with a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, powered by Toyota’s new Arene multimedia platform. Expect improved clarity, a more intuitive layout, and over-the-air updates. There’s also a broad centre console with room for smartphones, two USB-C ports, physical buttons for climate and drive modes, and a user-friendly layout.
New RAV4 powertrain specs
Under the bonnet, the 2026 Toyota RAV4 carries forward Toyota’s trusted 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine—but with its latest fifth-generation hybrid tech. For Australia, both front- and all-wheel-drive hybrid variants will produce 143kW, slightly detuned compared to global models due to local Euro 6d emissions standards.
But the real headline? A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) RAV4 is finally heading to Australia. The 2026 RAV4 debuts Toyota’s sixth-gen PHEV system and promises serious electric range and punchy performance, whether you go front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
Here’s a breakdown of the key specs across the RAV4 PHEV lineup:
| Spec / Variant | PHEV FWD | PHEV AWD |
| Power Output | 201kW | 227kW |
| 0–100 km/h | 7.3 seconds | 5.8 seconds |
| EV-only Range | Up to 100 km | Up to 100 km |
| DC Fast Charging | 10–80% in 30 min | 10–80% in 30 min |
| AC Charging | ~3 hours (11kW) | ~3 hours (11kW) |
Upgraded safety and tech features
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Overseas model shown
Toyota has expanded the standard safety suite across the range. New highlights include:
- Front cross-traffic alert
- 3D surround-view camera
- Autonomous lane changes (when Lane Tracing Assist and adaptive cruise are active)
- Smartphone-based remote parking
These upgrades bring the RAV4 in line with premium SUVs when it comes to driver assistance and safety tech. Toyota also stated that its new Arene software will play a critical role in improving the Toyota Safety Sense package, leveraging data from their global userbase.
RAV4 GR Sport: For the bold
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Toyota RAV4 GR Sport (Prototype)
For those who want more flair and driving feel, the RAV4 GR Sport is set to be offered exclusively in AWD PHEV form in Australia. It features:
- Black honeycomb grille
- Bespoke front bumper with repositioned fog lights
- 20-inch twin-spoke GR wheels
- GR badging, synthetic leather and suede upholstery
- Aluminium pedals, red stitching, and a sportier cabin feel
Beneath the surface, the GR Sport gains revised dampers, a stiffer rear brace, 20mm wider track, and retuned steering, which Toyota says will deliver a more planted and engaging drive.
The Japan-spec RAV4 GR Sport is stated to have a small bump in performance too with an output of 320hp (239kW).
Launch date and pricing in Australia
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Overseas model shown
Toyota hasn’t dropped pricing yet, but expect the PHEV models to command a premium over the standard hybrid. For context, the Toyota RAV4 GX hybrid currently starts from $46,737 driveaway.
Toyota Australia will reveal more details about the variant lineup and pricing in due course and the all-new RAV is expected to arrive in the first half of 2026.
Will it again challenge rivals like the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV or Hyundai Tucson Plug-in? If Toyota prices it right, the RAV4 could dominate the segment all over again.
Global additions: What about the Woodland?
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Toyota RAV4 Woodland (The US model, Prototype)
Internationally, Toyota is also adding a new Woodland trim with all-terrain tyres, roof rails, and unique outdoor-focused features. However, this variant hasn’t been confirmed for Australia, yet!
Final thoughts
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All-new Toyota RAV4 (overseas model shown)
With PHEV tech, next-gen infotainment, and a performance GR variant, the 2026 Toyota RAV4 isn’t just keeping up-, it’s charging ahead. It.
What do you think? Would you go for the PHEV, GR Sport, or stick with the standard hybrid?
New Comment
John Jo
The new design is much like multiple Chinese designs including Jetour Dashing, Changan Uni-K etc. Toyota please launch the woodland version in Australia ... it will be your most successful model
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