The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is set to arrive in Australia in the first half of next year, with a starting price of $45,000, a significant increase of up to 11% from the previous model. The new RAV4 Hybrid features a 2.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid powertrain, which has been tweaked to improve driving efficiency, although the power output has been reduced from 163kW to 143kW. The car’s underpinnings, including the TNGA-K architecture and independent suspension, remain largely unchanged.
The interior of the RAV4 Hybrid has been overhauled, with a new dashboard design, larger screens, and improved technology, including the Australian debut of Toyota’s latest Arene software. The car also features updated safety systems, including autonomous emergency braking and active cruise control, as well as a new embedded dashcam.
The RAV4 Hybrid will be available in various trim levels, including the Edge and Cruiser, with the latter featuring a price increase of 11% to $56,990 plus on-road costs. The Edge, on the other hand, has seen a price decrease of 5% to $55,340 plus on-road costs.
In terms of driving experience, the new RAV4 Hybrid is said to be similar to the outgoing model, with a comfortable ride and calm handling. However, the decrease in power output means that response is perhaps a little duller than before. The car’s electric running is also limited to low speeds, making it more of a hybrid than a plug-in hybrid.
The RAV4 Hybrid’s pricing is seen as confident, if not arrogant, given that it is higher than many of its competitors. However, Toyota is likely banking on its reputation and brand loyalty to attract customers. The car’s score is 3.0/5, with the reviewer noting that while it is a good car, the price rises are significant, and there are cheaper options available in the market.
Some of the key features of the 2026 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid include:
* 2.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid powertrain with 143kW combined output
* Improved driving efficiency
* New dashboard design and larger screens
* Updated safety systems, including autonomous emergency braking and active cruise control
* Embedded dashcam
* Available in various trim levels, including Edge and Cruiser
* Price starting at $45,000, with significant increases across the range
Overall, the 2026 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is a solid, if not spectacular, update to the existing model. While it features some improvements, including a new interior design and updated safety systems, the price rises are significant, and there are cheaper options available in the market.