2026 Toyota RAV4 makes world premiere — Bolder, Smarter, Better

KUALA LUMPUR: The all-new sixth-generation Toyota RAV4 finally made its world debut in Japan earlier this morning. Based on the concept of "Life is an Adventure,” the latest model is built on a reworked version of the Toyota New Generation Architecture-K (TNGA-K) platform. It brings on board more efficient hybrid tech, an advanced digital experience, and better handling and ride comfort.

2026 Toyota RAV4 - What’s hot and new?

New rugged styling

The new RAV4 features a robust exterior style, reflecting its authentic SUV spirit. The strong front design boasts a striking, tough new logo and hammerhead headlight assembly. With go-to-anywhere capabilities, the new RAV4 design is based on three elements -"Big Foot" (large-diameter tires), "Life-up" (excellent off-road performance), and "Utility" (an easy-to-use cargo space).

The SUV gets three unique trims catering to customers’ different lifestyles - 

• Core - Giving a high-tech, modern feel, this sleek and urban trim has a bold front design with a 3D-style grille and bumper.
• Adventure - Built for off-road fun, this version has a raised front end, a tall grille, a wider stance, and chunky wheel arches. 
• GR Sport: This sporty and fun version has special aerodynamic parts like spoilers, lightweight wheels and a sport-tuned suspension.

Upmarket cabin

The interior looks much more upmarket than the outgoing model, with a layout based on what Toyota calls “Island Architecture,” in which various functions such as displays and shifts are grouped together and arranged like islands. 

The user-friendly design has a wide, horizontal dashboard and a refreshed centre console incorporating fast-charging pads, a reversible box (armrest/tray) and USB ports. The gear panel houses the gear lever and an electronic parking brake with an auto brake hold switch.

Featuring an advanced ARENE software development platform, the SUV is equipped with a 10.5-inch infotainment display (upgradeable to 12.9-inch) and a 12.3-inch instrument cluster. Other key features include - 

• Android Auto and Apple CarPlay 
• Leather upholstery
• Wireless charging pad
• Head-up display
• 9-speaker JBL Premium Audio system
• Improved luggage space, measuring 749 litres with flatter-folding rear seats 

Upgraded PHEV and HEV versions

The all-new RAV4 will be offered in PHEV and HEV versions, with the PHEV version featuring Toyota’s newly developed next-gen plug-in hybrid system. It combines a high-capacity drive battery and high-output charger, offering a refined driving experience.

The HEV trim, on the other hand, gets an improved transaxle, power control unit, battery, and other components for better performance.

The key specifications are as follows - 

Specs	PHEV	HEV
Powertrain	6th-generation PHEV system	5th-generation hybrid system
Engine & motor	2.5-litre 4-cylinder + 2 electric motors	2.5-litre 4-cylinder + 1 electric motor
Output	320 hp	226 hp (FWD) / 236 hp (AWD)
EV driving range	Up to 150 km (previously 95 km)	NA
Charging	DC fast charging (10–80% in 30 mins)	Self-charging (regenerative)

New safety tech 

The advanced ARENE software platform also enables the inclusion of new safety technologies, making a shift toward smarter, safer vehicles. It powers the latest Toyota T-Mate safety suite, which is more advanced and faster than before and supports over-the-air updates. Key features include:

• Front Cross Traffic Alert
• Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Vehicle Approach Indicator
• Lane Change Assist
• Upgraded Pre-Collision System
• Advanced Remote Parking
• Emergency Driving Stop System
• Sudden acceleration suppression
• Improved Panoramic View Monitor: Offers 3D views for easier manual parking.

After hitting the Japanese showrooms by the end of FY2025, the all-new Toyota RAV4 will be rolled out in over 180 countries and regions globally. However, it remains unclear whether it will make its way to Malaysia or not.

Also read: UMW Toyota maintains strong sales momentum in April 2025; YTD stands at 27,876