What is the best Toyota RAV4 model?

There is a reason Toyota Rav4 It has been the brand’s best-selling vehicle for nearly a decade. Now entering its sixth generation for the 2026 model year, this compact SUV continues to deliver driving dynamics, passenger space, efficiency, and most importantly, price. In fact, this car was the best-selling car in the world last year.

Toyota aims to build on this momentum with the redesigned 2026 RAV4, which debuted earlier this year. The latest model is hybrid-only, and is offered with either front- or all-wheel drive, while the more powerful plug-in hybrid model is all-wheel drive only. It also comes with more technology than ever before and offers a range of new trim levels.

The big question is: Which 2026 RAV4 should you buy? Well, I’ve driven most of them, so no need to. Toyota gave me the opportunity to test the Woodland, XSE, Limited, and GR Sport models over several days in Arizona to help decide which model might be right for you.

The good news? You really can’t go wrong with any version of the 2026 RAV4. But depending on your needs and preferences, one piece clearly stands above the rest.

Rav4 Woodland

Everyone loves a powerful SUV, and the sales numbers back that up. The new RAV4 Woodland looks to participate in this, but it doesn’t go any further. The chunky wheels, orange accents, and roof rack don’t seem like significant enough upgrades over the XSE or Limited models.

Furthermore, the Woodland is missing some premium features, like the 12.9-inch touchscreen. Instead, it comes with a smaller, albeit still practical, 10.9-inch screen. On the highway, the Woodland is the loudest of the group, due to its aggressive tires, which also provide a less comfortable ride.

Unless you frequently drive on dirt roads or experience snowy winters, the Woodland is, unfortunately, probably my least favorite RAV4 in the lineup.

RAV4 XSE

Although I didn’t get to drive entry-level models like the LE or XLE, it’s hard to imagine why you’d want to downgrade to the

The RAV4 XSE offers everything you want and nothing you don’t. It comes standard with a 12.9-inch touchscreen, and the seats feature a premium mix of faux leather and suede. Additionally, you can choose between a hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain, as well as front- or all-wheel drive, depending on your preference.

Toyota’s XSE strikes the perfect balance.

RAV4 LIMITED

The biggest upgrade from the XSE to Limited is the standard faux-leather seats with heating and cooling. A digital rearview mirror, heated steering wheel, dual wireless charging and several other features also come standard on the Limited model that you’ll have to pay more for in the XSE.

However, the RAV4 Limited doesn’t look radically different from the XSE. You can still choose between hybrid or plug-in hybrid engines. A 12.9-inch touchscreen remains standard, although the Limited model offers nine speakers compared to the XSE’s six.

Ultimately, the decision between the XSE and Limited will likely come down to price. But I can’t imagine the Limited being worth the extra cost over the already impressive XSE.

RAV4 GR Sport

This is where things get interesting. The GR Sport is an all-new addition to the RAV4 lineup for 2026. Tuned with input from Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division, the GR Sport is tighter and more agile, and overall it’s the most fun-to-drive RAV4.

However, the GR Sport sits at the top of the RAV4 range, making it the most expensive option (price still pending). Unless your daily driving involves a track like Fuji Speedway, it may be difficult to justify the higher cost for only a modest equipment upgrade over the XSE or Limited trims.

However, it is a great model worth considering.

Which RAV4 should you buy?

In my opinion, the choice is clear: the RAV4 XSE is the one to get.

Although it’s not the most premium model – that goes for the Limited – the XSE meets the needs of most buyers. They offer both hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, as well as front- or all-wheel drive options. It’s stylish and well-equipped, and comes standard with an impressive 12.9-inch touchscreen. Plus, it retains the excellent cargo and passenger space found in the RAV4 lineup.

The XSE really hits the sweet spot in the RAV4 lineup.