{"id":3715,"date":"2025-10-22T14:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-10-22T14:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.windbornechurch.org\/?p=3715"},"modified":"2025-10-27T13:06:26","modified_gmt":"2025-10-27T13:06:26","slug":"the-2026-toyota-rav4-is-still-the-compact-suv-to-beat-review","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/www.windbornechurch.org\/index.php\/2025\/10\/22\/the-2026-toyota-rav4-is-still-the-compact-suv-to-beat-review\/","title":{"rendered":"The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Is Still the Compact SUV to Beat: Review"},"content":{"rendered":"

<\/p>\n

Redesigning a vehicle for a new generation comes with inherent risks. What if people hate the new look? What if the technology doesn\u2019t deliver? What if the driving dynamics change for the worse? It\u2019s an even more daunting challenge when the vehicle in question is one of the most popular cars on the planet.<\/p>\n

You can’t talk about the Toyota RAV4<\/a> without acknowledging how insanely successful it is. The RAV was the third best-selling vehicle in the US in 2024\u2014trailing only the Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado\u2014and the best-selling nameplate globally, just edging out the Tesla Model Y.<\/p>\n

Now, nearly eight full model years after the fifth generation debuted back in 2018, Toyota is hoping that its new and much-improved sixth-generation RAV4 will remain atop the sales chart for the next decade to come. No pressure, right?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Quick Specs<\/td>\n2026 Toyota RAV4<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Engine<\/td>\n2.5-Liter Four-Cylinder Hybrid \/ Plug-In Hybrid<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Output<\/td>\n226 \/ 320 Horsepower<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Efficiency<\/td>\n44 City \/ 38 Highway \/ 41 Combined<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
EV Range (PHEV Model)<\/td>\n52 Miles<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Price<\/td>\nTBD<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

It all starts with a fresh look. The 2026 RAV4\u2019s redesign isn\u2019t revolutionary, but it doesn\u2019t need to be. The RAV retains its familiar silhouette but introduces updated elements, like Toyota\u2019s now-signature boomerang-shaped headlights. Core models, like the XSE and Limited, have a color-matched grille that almost looks EV-esque, but it works. The Woodland trim gets a more aggressive front end with extra lighting elements, while the GR Sport essentially rips off the GR Corolla\u2019s sporty grille\u2014not that we\u2019re complaining.<\/p>\n

Around back, the taillights stand out. The light fixtures extend onto the trunklid, with vertically stacked LEDs creating a distinctive pattern. As expected in any modern SUV, the \u201cRAV4\u201d name is boldly stamped across the tailgate in a chunky font. Depending on the trim, a subtle roof spoiler adds a sporty touch\u2014though the GR Sport gets the biggest wing of the bunch. Because sporty.<\/p>\n

\"2026
\nPhoto by: Jeff Perez \/ Motor1<\/p>\n

\"2026 <\/p>\n

2026 Toyota RAV4 Limited<\/em><\/p>\n

Photo by: Jeff Perez \/ Motor1<\/p>\n

\"2026 <\/p>\n

2026 Toyota RAV4 Limited<\/em><\/p>\n

Photo by: Jeff Perez \/ Motor1<\/p>\n

Photos by: Jeff Perez \/ Motor1<\/p>\n

The biggest news, though, is under the hood: Every 2026 Toyota RAV4 is now electrified. That means even base models like the LE and XLE come with a hybrid powertrain. The plug-in hybrid returns as well, now available across a broader range of trims.<\/p>\n

The standard powertrain is a four-cylinder hybrid, producing 226 horsepower with front-wheel drive or 236 horsepower with all-wheel drive. The plug-in hybrid delivers up to 320 horsepower and, in the Limited trim, offers up to 52 miles of electric-only range. Other trims get slightly less range, and all plug-in hybrid models come with all-wheel drive as standard.<\/p>\n

\"2026
\nPhoto by: Jeff Perez \/ Motor1<\/p>\n

Pros: Sharp Design, Wonderfully Packaged Interior, Powerful Plug-In Option, Tons Of Trims<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Most buyers will likely go for the conventional hybrid, expectedly thanks to its lower starting price and standard availability on every trim except the GR Sport. It uses a familiar setup: Toyota\u2019s 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine paired with the brand\u2019s fifth-generation hybrid system\u2014the same setup found in the latest Camry, and similar to the Prius hybrid.<\/p>\n

If you\u2019ve driven a Toyota hybrid before, you know this powertrain isn\u2019t flawless. Even with technical tweaks for the RAV4\u2014like a new rear motor for all-wheel-drive models\u2014the powertrain still feels a bit rough around the edges. The engine is raspy at startup and gets loud on the highway if you\u2019re pushing it hard, which you might need to do on steeper roads.<\/p>\n

\"2026 <\/p>\n

2026 Toyota RAV4 XSE<\/em><\/p>\n

Photo by: Jeff Perez \/ Motor1<\/p>\n

\"2026 <\/p>\n

2026 Toyota RAV4 XSE<\/em><\/p>\n

Photo by: Jeff Perez \/ Motor1<\/p>\n

Photos by: Jeff Perez \/ Motor1<\/p>\n

Still, it gets the job done. The electric motor provides solid acceleration off the line, while the gas engine has just enough muscle to keep things moving at highway speeds. Both powertrains are paired to an electronic continuously variable transmission (e-CVT) that fades into the background\u2014and I mean that in the best possible way.<\/p>\n

If it\u2019s power you\u2019re after, go for the plug-in. Like the outgoing Prime, the new RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid is seriously quick. The electric motor delivers strong low-end torque, and when combined with the four-cylinder engine, there\u2019s still plenty of power higher in the rev range. Even in EV-only mode, it never feels sluggish.<\/p>\n

\"2026
\nPhoto by: Jeff Perez \/ Motor1<\/p>\n

Cons: Hybrid Setup Is A Little Loud, Still Too Much Road Noise<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Winding through the mountainous roads near Phoenix, the 2026 RAV4 proves it has moderately solid handling chops. It\u2019s no GR Corolla, of course, but the suspension strikes a good balance\u2014composed enough to handle sharp corners, yet soft enough to deliver a smooth, comfortable ride over longer stretches.<\/p>\n

Just like the previous model, though, the 2026 RAV4 is still too loud for my liking. The engine is rumblier than many of its competitors, and road noise is noticeable across the lineup. The Woodland trim is the worst offender here; its chunky off-road tires generate more noise and contribute to a rougher ride, making it the least comfortable of the bunch.<\/p>\n

Steering across most trims is perfectly adequate for a compact SUV. The rack feels light, quick, and reasonably responsive, giving you decent feedback about what the front tires are up to. Compared to something like the Honda CR-V, though, the RAV4\u2019s steering feels slightly more vague and less engaging.<\/p>\n

Thankfully, the new RAV4 GR Sport turns things up a notch. Developed with input from Toyota\u2019s Gazoo Racing division, it features unique suspension tuning, a slightly lower ride height (7.5 inches of ground clearance), and a revised steering setup. The result is a noticeably sharper ride through corners than trims like the XSE or Limited. There\u2019s less body roll and a touch more steering feedback\u2014subtle changes, but ones you can feel behind the wheel.<\/p>\n

\"2026
\nPhoto by: Jeff Perez \/ Motor1<\/p>\n

\"2026
\nPhoto by: Jeff Perez \/ Motor1<\/p>\n

\"2026 <\/p>\n

2026 Toyota RAV4 GR Sport<\/em><\/p>\n

Photo by: Jeff Perez \/ Motor1<\/p>\n

Photos by: Jeff Perez \/ Motor1<\/p>\n

Powering the GR Sport is the plug-in hybrid setup\u2014fitting, since it’s the most powerful option in the lineup. It offers 48 miles of electric-only range on this trim and, like all PHEV models, comes standard with all-wheel drive.<\/p>\n

Inside, the vibe shifts significantly depending on which trim you choose\u2014but honestly, it\u2019s hard to go wrong. The XSE features suede-like upholstery that looks and feels upscale. The Woodland uses rugged, outdoor-friendly materials with bronze accents for a more adventurous aesthetic. The Limited goes premium with Toyota\u2019s excellent SofTex faux leather. And the GR Sport steps things up again, combining suede and faux leather in supportive, sporty bucket seats.<\/p>\n

While materials vary by trim, one thing remains consistent: The RAV4 has some of the smartest interior packaging in the segment. There are two large phone storage areas below the touchscreen\u2014including one with a wireless charging pad\u2014a third deep cubby underneath that, and a surprisingly spacious center storage compartment. Even the passenger has a small cubby atop the dashboard. And the center console lid has a clever trick up its sleeve:<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

The RAV4\u2019s center touchscreen ranges from 10.5 inches in the base and Woodland models to a massive 12.9 inches in the Limited and GR Sport trims. Every version also includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster as standard\u2014a welcome feature.<\/p>\n

No matter the screen size, all models come with Toyota\u2019s latest infotainment system, which now includes updates to the audio interface, navigation, and home screen layout for improved usability. One of my biggest complaints about the previous setup has finally been addressed: There\u2019s now a dedicated home button.<\/p>\n

However, not all changes are upgrades. One clear downside is the lack of physical buttons. While Toyota wisely kept the physical knobs for temperature and volume\u2014and says those aren\u2019t going anywhere\u2014functions like fan speed and a few other basics have been moved into the touchscreen. It’s not a dealbreaker, and certainly not unique to Toyota, but it does add a minor annoyance. You\u2019ll find yourself glancing at the screen more than you used to.<\/p>\n

\"2026 <\/p>\n

2026 Toyota RAV4 Woodland<\/em><\/p>\n

Photo by: Jeff Perez \/ Motor1<\/p>\n

Even with these changes, the RAV4 stays true to its roots. It\u2019s still the same relatively simple, no-nonsense compact SUV it\u2019s always been\u2014just better. A hybrid-only lineup, updated tech, and some genuinely fun new trims make the 2026 model feel meaningfully improved without losing its core appeal.<\/p>\n

One thing we still don\u2019t know? Pricing. Toyota says the base MSRP will start in the low $30,000 range, which keeps it in line with the outgoing model. Trims like the Woodland and GR Sport will likely land higher on the pricing ladder.<\/p>\n

But no matter which version you choose, one thing\u2019s clear: Toyota has another winner on its hands.<\/p>\n

Competitors<\/h3>\n

Chevrolet Equinox<\/a>
\nHonda CR-V<\/a>
\nKia Sportage<\/a>
\nNissan Rogue<\/a>
\nSubaru Forester<\/a><\/p>\n

The Honda CR-V TrailSport Is All Looks: Review<\/a>
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson Is God-Tier NPC Transportation: First Drive Review<\/a>
The Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Is for Fuel-Sipping Enthusiasts: Review<\/a>
The Chevrolet Equinox EV and Gas Are Both Great. But One Is Better<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
2026 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid \/ PHEV<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Engine<\/td>\n2.5-Liter Four-Cylinder Hybrid \/ Plug-In Hybrid<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Battery<\/td>\n Lithium-Ion 22.7 Kilowatt-Hours<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Output<\/td>\n226 \/ 320 Horsepower<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Transmission<\/td>\nContinuously Variable<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Drive Type<\/td>\nFront-Wheel Drive \/ All-Wheel Drive<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Weight<\/td>\n4,435 \/ 4,540 Pounds<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Efficiency<\/td>\n44 City \/ 38 Highway \/ 41 Combined<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
EV Range<\/td>\n52 Miles <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Charge Time<\/td>\n35 Minutes \/ 2.5 Hours<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Charge Type<\/td>\n220-Volt \/ DC Fast Charging <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Seating Capacity<\/td>\n5<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Towing<\/td>\n3,500 Pounds<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Payload<\/td>\n1,340 Pounds<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cargo Volume<\/td>\n33.6 \/ 63.6 Cubic Feet<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Base Price<\/td>\nTBD<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
On Sale<\/td>\nTBD<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Redesigning a vehicle for a new generation comes with inherent risks. What if people hate the new look?<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3717,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[14],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.windbornechurch.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3715"}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.windbornechurch.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.windbornechurch.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.windbornechurch.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.windbornechurch.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3715"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"http:\/\/www.windbornechurch.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3715\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3729,"href":"http:\/\/www.windbornechurch.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3715\/revisions\/3729"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.windbornechurch.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3717"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.windbornechurch.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3715"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.windbornechurch.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3715"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.windbornechurch.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3715"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}