2026 Toyota Rav4: Everything we know about the sixth-generation SUV

Six years later, fifth-generation RAV4 is making way for a “new” model, though it might not be as fresh as Toyota’s

Toyota’s hugely popular RAV4 continues to dominate sales charts and holds the title of America’s best-selling vehicle that’s not a truck through 2024, printing money for the Japanese automaker in the process even as new rivals line up a set of moves . As the fifth-generation RAV4 nears the end of its current lifecycle, Toyota is preparing to replace it, but don’t expect to completely invent it.

2026 Subaru Outback: We take a look at everything from design to powertrain

New spy shots and reports from Japan suggest that the upcoming RAV4 is getting a major visual update. However, it might not be as extensive as most full redesigns we know about. Like the latest Camry, the new model is expected to retain the existing platform and powertrain. While the exterior gets a fresh new polish, there are clear signs that this isn’t an “all-new” model in the traditional sense.

evolutionary design

When the current, fifth-generation RAV4 debuted at the 2018 New York Auto Show, it stood out with its sharper, more aggressive styling, which was a marked departure from the subdued design of its immediate predecessor. Even today it still looks fresh. For 2026, the design remains familiar, but with subtle aerodynamic tweaks here and there.

The Front Fastia adopts Toyota’s latest design language, as seen on the Prius and new Camry. It comes with wraparound DRLs with hammerhead interior section and honeycomb grille. We expect there to be some differences from the preliminary illustrations of the Japanese spy-based prototype, so the final product may feature a squarer form with more contrasting elements.

From the side, the RAV4 maintains its recognizable silhouette, with a two-tone roof option and bold contrasting lower cladding. The greenhouse and strut layout are nearly identical to the current model. Around back, you’re likely to see a full-width LED taillight cluster paired with squared-off lower cladding that features silver inlays for a modern touch.

Given that Honda recently announced a more rugged CR-V Trailsport Trim as part of a mid-cycle facelift later this year, chances are, Toyota probably doesn’t want to be left behind in this growing segment. To stay competitive, Toyota can leverage its off-road expertise by introducing a rugged TRD Pro Trim similar to the one offered in the latest 4Runner.

What about the leaked photos?

It’s worth noting that our renders were created ahead of Friday’s leaked photos, which allegedly surfaced during a media presentation in China. The vehicle is believed to be the successor to the Toyota Wildlander, a Chinese version of the RAV4 developed in partnership with FAW and sold domestically by GAC.

The current Wildlander has different front and rear fascia compared to the international RAV4. At this point, it’s unclear whether the next-generation RAV4 and Wildlander will retain their mild styling differences or converge into a single unified design.

under the skin

We haven’t gotten a glimpse of the new Rav’s interior yet. But if the redesigned Camry is anything to go by, expect higher-quality materials and an improved roster of technology compared to the current car. Internal dimension? We don’t expect much to change here.

The tech roster is likely to include a spacious infotainment display with sharper graphics and support for Apple Carplay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa for enhanced voice recognition control of various functions. It is also expected to carry premium touches like Advanced Touch Display (HUD), panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting and wireless charging.

As for the underpinnings, it will likely be revamped using the current model’s TNGA-K architecture to help it pass the more stringent IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) crash testing protocols.

EV and hybrid

Rumors have been circulating about a newly developed 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, but it’s unlikely to appear in the RAV4’s sixth generation. Instead, the familiar 2.5-liter engine and plug-in hybrid setup will return, albeit with slightly improved power and efficiency.

The bigger news is the possibility of an all-electric variant. The details are slim, but the revision to the TNGA-K platform is all electrification. If Toyota goes this route, we won’t see the silly BZ4X word nomenclature anymore.

competitors and reveal

The next iteration of the RAV4 will face stiff competition in a crowded segment. Rivals like Mazda’s new CX-5 hybrid, Honda CR-V, Subaru Forester, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson and Ford Escape are all aiming to replace the compact SUV pie.

2026 Mazda CX-5: 9 years later, new SUV brings big changes

Toyota is expected to officially launch the updated RAV4 later this year, with sales likely to begin this fall with the 2026 model year vehicles. Pricing is expected to remain in the same ballpark as the current model, ranging from around $29,000 to $30,000.

What do you think of the RAV4’s significantly revised new look? Let us know in the comments below.