Redesigning a successful vehicle for a new generation carries inherent risks. What if people are disappointed with the new image? What if the technology doesn’t deliver as promised? What if the dynamism does not rise in category? Of course, the challenge that Toyota engineers had to face with the new 2026 RAV4 would keep anyone awake at night.

And you cannot talk about the hybrid SUV without recognizing its incredible success. Specifically, it was the third best-selling vehicle in the US in 2024 (only surpassed by the Ford F-150 and the Chevrolet Silverado) and the most purchased car worldwide, just ahead of the Tesla Model Y.

Now, almost eight years after the 2018 fifth-generation launch, Toyota expects the new and improved sixth-generation RAV4 to top sales charts for the next decade.

Our colleague Jeff Perez of Motor1.com Global had the opportunity to test drive the US-spec model. As a preview of our contact in Europe, it seems like a really appealing ‘starter’.

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Source: Jeff Perez / Motor1

Visually, the RAV4, which still measures 4.60 meters long, remains true to its mid-size SUV profile, but features modern details such as the distinctive headlights. The American XSE and Limited trims have a matching front end that almost resembles that of an electric vehicle.

The Woodland level features a more striking front end with additional lighting elements, while the sportier GR Sport adopts the design of the GR Corolla. At the rear, vertical LED lights and the distinctive RAV4 logo ensure vehicle recognition.

Photo: Jeff Perez / Motor1

Photo: Jeff Perez / Motor1

Photo: Jeff Perez / Motor1

Photos: Jeff Perez / Motor1

The RAV4 range is more powerful in the United States, as the hybrids reach 226 HP (front-wheel drive) and 236 HP (all-wheel drive), while in Europe those figures drop to 183 and 191 HP, respectively. Things about emissions limits on our European continent… Likewise, there is a plug-in hybrid with 320 HP, while we are satisfied with two versions, 268 and 304 HP. It follows the e-CVT automatic transmission using planetary gears.

According to our colleague Perez, “the RAV4 convinces with its good grip and comfortable suspension. The GR Sport version offers a noticeably firmer set-up, which generates fewer body movements and a more direct steering sensation. All versions offer convincing acceleration: the hybrid is agile in urban traffic, but somewhat abrupt under strong acceleration. For its part, the plug-in hybrid impresses due to the powerful torque of the electric motor, the spirited acceleration even in electric mode and the overall dynamic performance.

Of course, to us at Motor1.com Spain, the previous plug-in hybrid RAV4, with a combined 306 HP, seemed one of the most interesting on the market due to its optimal relationship between performance and consumption, even with the battery already depleted. Here is the proof of that PHEV variant.

Photo: Jeff Perez / Motor1

Like its predecessor, the 2026 RAV4 is still too loud for Perez’s taste. The engine is noisier than many of its competitors due to the transmission, which keeps it revving during acceleration, and rolling noise is clearly noticeable throughout the range. For Jeff, the Woodland trim is the worst: its all-terrain tires generate more noise and contribute to a more unstable ride; something logical, on the other hand.

The steering feels light, quick and reasonably responsive, and offers good overall feedback. However, compared to that of a model like the Honda CR-V, it seems less precise and direct.

Photo: Jeff Perez / Motor1

Photo: Jeff Perez / Motor1

Photos: Jeff Perez / Motor1

The interior materials vary depending on the finish: those in the XSE finish offer suede-effect surfaces, while in the Woodland they are more robust. In the Limited we see SofTex synthetic leather and in the GR Sport there is a combination of the same synthetic leather and Alcantara fabric.

The cabin is well organized and features ample storage compartments, as well as a wireless charging pad and spacious center console. Infotainment screens range in size from 10.5 to 12.9 inches, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel comes standard. Physical buttons only exist for volume and temperature; Other functions are controlled by the touch monitor.

The price of the basic RAV4 starts at around $30,000 in the United States, while in Italy rates start at 45,200 euros. We expect figures in Spain very similar to the Italian ones, which you can learn more about in one of the two highlighted links just below this paragraph.