2026 Toyota RAV4: Everything You Need to Know Before It Hits Showrooms

America’s Most Popular SUV Arrives

America’s most popular SUV, the 2026 Toyota RAV4, has officially landed in the US, marking a big update for the country’s top-selling model. We’ve already driven it in two configurations – the GR Sport and the others – and Toyota’s done more than just polish the edges – the lineup is now divided into three distinct design directions: Core, Rugged, and Sport.

With seven grades spread across them and two powertrains to choose from, it’s not the simplest lineup to decode. So, if you’re looking to buy one, here’s what you should know before they hit showrooms later this year.

Core: Everyday Comfort Meets Hybrid Efficiency

The Core lineup covers the traditional RAV4 buyers – those who value comfort, tech, and balanced performance. It includes the LE, XLEPremium, and Limited grades, all powered by Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid system. Using a 2.5-liter inline-four paired with electric motors, output sits at 226 hp for front-wheel drive and 236 hp for all-wheel drive. Toyota claims up to 44 MPG combined, making it one of the most efficient non-plug-in SUVs around.

Inside, the new RAV4 benefits from Toyota’s latest digital suite, including a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a central touchscreen that ranges from 10.5 to 12.9 inches depending on trim. The LE comes with fabric seats, manual adjustments, and a no-fuss layout. Moving up, the XLE Premium introduces SofTex upholstery, heated seats, and a power liftgate, while the Limited trim adds ventilated seating, a panoramic glass roof, JBL premium audio, and more refined surface finishes.

On the road, Toyota has revised the chassis for smoother, quieter cruising, with upgraded suspension mounts and adhesive damping for reduced vibration. Meanwhile, Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 is available, while also adding new features like Traffic Jam Assist and Advanced Park.

Rugged: The Woodland’s Outdoor Spirit

The Rugged design takes a very different approach. Represented by the Woodland grade, this version leans into outdoor adventure and light off-roading. It’s offered in both Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid configurations, each with standard AWD. The hybrid setup makes 236 hp and delivers 39 MPG combined, while the improved PHEV version brings 324 hp, 38 MPG combined, and up to 49 miles of all-electric range.

Physically, the Woodland sits higher at 8.5 inches of ground clearance and rolls on 18-inch matte gray wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires. It features black overfenders, a satin-black hammerhead grille, Rigid Industries LED fog lights, and an exclusive Urban Rock exterior color. There’s also a 2-inch tow hitch receiver, 3,500-lb towing capacity, and unique roof rails.

Inside, the Woodland gets SofTex-trimmed seats with orange-red contrast stitching, all-weather floor mats, and unique black and mineral interior trim. There’s also a 1500-watt AC outlet in the cargo area, perfect for camping gear or tailgating setups. The cabin uses durable materials, while adding touches like a heated steering wheel, rain-sensing wipers, and a full set of USB-C ports.

The RAV4 Woodland comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, Multi-Terrain Monitor, 3D Panoramic View, and Front Cross-Traffic Alert.

Sport: From Subtle to GR-Badged Performance

The RAV4 Sport design option focuses on sharper looks, enhanced handling, and a sportier cabin feel. The lineup includes the SE, XSE, and the new GR Sport – a first for the RAV4 and a model developed in collaboration with Toyota Gazoo Racing.

The SE and XSE come in Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid form, with the XSE featuring standard AWD. The SE offers 226–236 hp, a 44 MPG combined estimate, and subtle styling updates like piano black trim, dark chrome grille accents, and 18-inch black alloy wheels. The interior has blue stitching, heated sport seats, and a new leather-wrapped steering wheel, giving it a more focused atmosphere.

The XSE raises the bar with 20-inch alloy wheels, a two-tone roof option, Ultrasuede and SofTex upholstery, ventilated front seats, and the upgraded 12.9-inch multimedia system. In Plug-in Hybrid form, it adds DC fast charging and an 11-kW onboard charger, significantly reducing charging time.

Then there’s the range-topping GR Sport, which transforms the RAV4 into something new. Powered solely by the Plug-in Hybrid setup with 324 hp, the most powerful of the bunch, it gets dedicated dampers, coil springs, and a 15-mm lower ride height. Lightweight 20-inch wheels, Dunlop Sportmaxx tires, and unique aerodynamics – including a front lip, rear wing, and functional cooling ducts – complete the look. Inside, GR branding, Brin Naub synthetic suede seats, red accents, aluminum pedals, and a special GR startup animation in the digital cluster make it feel genuinely different.

Availability and Pricing

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid will begin arriving at US dealerships in December 2025, with Plug-in Hybrid models following in spring 2026. Pricing starts in the low $30,000 range for the Hybrid FWD, with full figures to be released closer to launch.

All grades come equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, the brand’s newest 5G-connected multimedia system, and a wide range of comfort and convenience tech.