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The covers have been taken off the 2026 Toyota RAV4, which is all-new in its sixth generation, and introduces Toyota’s first PHEV powertrain for the market before it arrives in Australia in the first half of 2026.
While popular 143kW series-parallel hybrid system variants will remain the core of the line-up, the PHEV variants will be available in 2WD or AWD arrangements with a 2.5-litre petrol engine that’s combined with a new 22.7 kWh high-capacity lithium-ion battery to provide a targeted electric-only driving range of up to 100km based on the WLTP cycle.
Power-wise, the new 150kW front electric motor helps the top-of-the-range 2026 Toyota RAV4 AWD models produce a combined system output of 227kW, meaning the RAV4 can accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 5.8 seconds. That’s quicker than a brand-new 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI, which manages the same in 5.9 seconds. Meanwhile, affordable 2WD PHEV variants will also be offered with a total system output of 201kW.
Look inside the new 2026 Toyota RAV4 and you’ll find an overhauled interior with plenty of new technology, physical buttons, and Toyota’s latest multimedia system powered by something they’re calling “Arene.” This is essentially a fancy word for AI modelling that they’re using for improved data utilisation to improve the multimedia functionality and driver assistance systems.
This new screen has improved clarity and a new configurable home screen layout. There’s also voice control that is used with features like Google Points of Interest and real-time navigation. Ultimately, none of this probably matters to you as you’ll likely just use wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Safety features have also been improved with front cross-traffic alert, blind spot monitoring with rear vehicle approach indicator, lane change assist with turn signal-linked autonomous lane change functionality on highways (with adaptive cruise control and lane tracing assist), and the Pre Collision System functionality has been expanded to recognise obstacles, bicycles and motorbikes. Finally, the advanced parking feature now lets owners control parking from outside the vehicle with a smartphone and a three-dimensional panoramic view monitor has been added.
To make the most of the 2.5-litre PHEV powertrain that produces 227kW of power in AWD model grades, Toyota has introduced a flagship GR Sport variant that stands out with lightweight 20-inch twin-spoke black alloy wheels, aerodynamic front and rear spoilers, and a distinctive grille design with GR mesh pattern for a deeper 3D effect.
Beyond the visual additions, it will be a “more dynamic expression of the RAV4’s handling characteristics,” and this results from a 20 mm-wider wheel track and upgraded high-performance damper design with stiffer rear suspension brace, retuned suspension, and retuned power steering calibration.
Typical for a GR Sport model, the interior adds plenty of GR logos and red accents, and you’ll find them on the sports seats that use a combination of synthetic leather and suede upholstery, console knee pads and aluminium pedals.
“The all-new sixth-generation RAV4 will carry on the legacy created by its predecessors, while introducing exciting new Toyota-first technologies like plug-in hybrid powertrains and next-generation software,” said Toyota Australia Vice President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations Sean Hanley. “Since the 2001 launch of Toyota’s first hybrid electric vehicle in Australia, we have led the development of hybrid technology that is refined, powerful and efficient, delivering customer confidence for quality, durability and reliability.”
We still don’t know the local specification, grade line-up, or pricing for the 2026 Toyota RAV4, but these things will be revealed closer to its arrival in the first half of 2026. The current entry-level GX model is priced from AUD$42,260 plus on-road costs, while the top-spec Edge starts at $58,360 plus on-road costs.
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