2026 Toyota RAV4 Still the Compact SUV to Beat: Review

Redesigning a car for a new generation comes with inherent risks. What if people hate the new look? What if the technology doesn’t work? What if the driving dynamics change for the worse? It’s an even more difficult challenge when the car in question is one of the most popular cars on the planet.

You can’t talk about Toyota Rav4 Without acknowledging how insanely successful it was. The RAV was the third best-selling vehicle in the United States in 2024 — behind only the Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado — and the best-selling nameplate globally, just surpassed by the Tesla Model Y.

Now, nearly eight full years after the fifth-generation debuted in 2018, Toyota is hoping the new and much-improved sixth-generation RAV4 will remain at the top of the sales chart for the next decade. No pressure, right?

It all starts with a new look. The RAV4’s redesign for 2026 isn’t revolutionary, but it doesn’t have to be. The RAV retains its familiar shape but introduces updated elements, such as Toyota’s now signature bounce-shaped headlights. Base models, like the XSE and Limited, have a color-matched grille that almost looks like an EV, but it works. The Woodland model gets a more aggressive front fascia with additional lighting elements, while the GR Sport model essentially rips off the GR Corolla’s sporty grille — not that we’re complaining.

At the back, the taillights stand out. The lighting units extend to the trunk lid, with vertically stacked LEDs creating a distinctive pattern. As you’d expect on any modern SUV, the name “RAV4” is stamped in bold on the tailgate. Depending on the model, a subtle roof spoiler adds a sporty touch – although the GR Sport gets the largest spoiler in the range. Because he is an athlete.

However, the biggest news is under the hood: every 2026 Toyota RAV4 is now electrified. This means that even base models like the LE and XLE come with a hybrid powertrain. The plug-in hybrid model also returns, and is now available across a wide range of models.

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 model offers up to 320 horsepower, and in Limited trim, up to 52 miles of electric-only range. Other models get slightly less range, and all plug-in hybrid models come with all-wheel drive as standard.

Pros: Sharp design, great interior, solid connectivity option, plenty of trim

Most buyers will likely opt for the traditional hybrid model, thanks to its lower starting price and standard availability on every model except the GR Sport. It uses a familiar setup: Toyota’s 2.5-liter Atkinson four-cylinder engine paired with the brand’s fifth-generation hybrid system — the same setup found in the latest Camry, and similar to the Prius hybrid.

If you’ve ever driven a Toyota hybrid, you know that this powertrain isn’t without faults. Even with the RAV4’s technical tweaks—such as a new rear engine for all-wheel-drive models—the powertrain is still a bit rough around the edges. The engine is rough on startup and gets louder on the highway if you push it hard, which you may need to do on steeper roads.

However, it gets the job done. The electric motor delivers strong acceleration off the line, while the gas engine has enough power to keep things moving at highway speeds. Both engines are paired with an electronic continuously variable transmission (e-CVT) that fades into the background — and I mean that in the best way possible.

If you’re looking for power, go with the plug-in. Like the outgoing Prime, the new RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid is very quick. The electric motor delivers strong low-end torque, and when paired with the four-cylinder engine, there’s still plenty of power higher up in the rev range. Even in EV-only mode, it never feels sluggish.

Cons: The hybrid setting is a little loud, and there’s still a lot of road noise

When traversing the mountain roads near Phoenix, the 2026 RAV4 proves to have fairly solid handling capabilities. It’s no GR Corolla, of course, but the suspension strikes a good balance – it’s composed enough to handle sharp corners, but soft enough to provide a smooth, comfortable ride over longer distances.

Just like the outgoing model, the 2026 RAV4 is still too loud for my liking. The engine is tougher than many of its rivals, and road noise is noticeable across the lineup. The Woodland decoration 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 group.

Steering across most models is perfectly adequate for a compact SUV. The rack feels light, quick and reasonably responsive, giving you good feedback about what the front tires are doing. Compared to something like a Honda CR-V, the RAV4’s steering feels vaguer and less engaging.

Fortunately, the new RAV4 GR Sport improves matters. Developed with input from Toyota’s 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 models like the XSE or Limited. There’s less body roll, and more steering feedback – subtle changes, but you can feel them behind the wheel.

Powering the GR Sport is a plug-in hybrid setup, as it’s the most powerful option in the lineup. It offers an electric-only range of 48 miles on this model, and like all PHEV models, comes standard with all-wheel drive.

Inside, the ambiance changes dramatically depending on which model you choose, but honestly, it’s hard to go wrong. The XSE features suede-like upholstery that looks upscale. The Woodland uses durable, eco-friendly materials with bronze accents for a more adventurous aesthetic. The Limited features Toyota’s premium SofTex synthetic leather. The GR Sport steps things up again, combining suede and faux leather in supportive sports seats.

Although materials vary by model, one thing remains constant: The RAV4 features some of the smartest interior packaging in its class. There are two large phone storage areas below the touchscreen – including one with a wireless charging pad – a third, deep compartment underneath, and a surprisingly spacious central storage compartment. Even the passenger has a cubby above the dashboard. And the center console lid has a clever trick up its sleeve:

The RAV4’s central touchscreen ranges in size from 10.5 inches on base and Woodland models to 12.9 inches on Limited and GR Sport models. Each version also includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster as standard – a welcome feature.

Regardless of screen size, all models come with Toyota’s latest infotainment system, which now includes updates to the audio interface, navigation and home screen layout for improved ease of use. One of my biggest complaints about the previous setup has finally been addressed: there’s now a dedicated Home button.

However, not all changes are upgrades. One obvious downside is the lack of physical buttons. While Toyota has wisely kept the physical knobs for temperature and volume — and says they’re not going anywhere — functions like fan speed and a few other basics have been moved to the touchscreen. It’s not a deal-breaker, and certainly not unique to Toyota, but it does add a minor inconvenience. You’ll find yourself looking at the screen more than you used to.

Even with these changes, the RAV4 remains true to its roots. It’s still the same relatively simple compact SUV that’s always been better. The hybrid-only lineup, updated technology, and some really fun new trim make the 2026 model feel much better without losing its core appeal.

One thing we still don’t know? Pricing. Toyota says the base model’s MSRP will start in the low $30,000 range, keeping it in line with the outgoing model. Models like the Woodland and GR Sport are likely to move down the price ladder.

But no matter which version you choose, one thing is clear: Toyota has another winner on its hands.