Toyota NZ reveals details of sixth gen RAV4
The sixth-generation Toyota RAV4 has a new bumper and grille. Photos: Toyota
Toyota New Zealand has released details of the all-new 2026 RAV4, with its top selling vehicle gaining a Plug-in Hybrid and a GR Sport version to its line-up.
For the first time in New Zealand the sixth generation RAV4 will be available in three distinct designs – starting with Core with a range of grades and powertrains, Adventure for tackling the roads less travelled and, a GR Sport that brings a bold, sleek, sporty edge, developed and built for the driving enthusiast who also needs the versality of a mid-sized SUV.
The Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) powertrain gives the driver access to higher power output when compared to Hybrid (HEV) variants, achieved by a combination of petrol and electric motors while also offering a substantial reduction in CO2 emissions.
The cabin gets a makeover with better ease of use for the driver.
Andrew Davis, Toyota New Zealand Chief Strategic Officer, said the Plug-in Hybrid RAV4 is a natural next step for Kiwis on their electrification journey.
“This car is an absolute winner for the Kiwi lifestyle – it suits just about everybody. It has a Plug-in Hybrid powertrain built on our sixth generation hybrid technology with a floor mounted high-capacity rechargeable battery,” he said.
“Add in the electronic all-wheel drive system to tackle wet or gravel roads, and the very latest Toyota Safety Sense, and you are well sorted for any driving situation.
For the first time in New Zealand, the RAV$ will get a PHEV version.
“Increasingly, we are seeing RAV4 as a core part of the two-vehicle family – either as the larger car pairing with a Yaris or Corolla, or the smaller of a pair when matched with a Hilux or Land Cruiser. In the first case, it might be used for longer trips and family holidays away; in the second case it might be the city car or the farm-to-town car. RAV4 has become the epitome of versatile mobility,” said Davis.
The new RAV4 design is based on three design elements: ‘Big Foot’ with an emphasis on large-diameter tyres and a solidly planted stance on the road, ‘Lift-up’, which encompasses its SUV elevation and a reminder of excellent off-road performance, and ‘Utility’ for its capability and easy-to-use cargo space – extended in the new design.
The front bumper and grille across all grades have been redesigned to have a sharper and cleaner look. With a strong C-shaped headlight arrangement and deeper grille, featuring 3D designs, the front of the RAV4 appears more integrated and purposeful.
The boot of the 2026 RAV4 increases from the previous 733L to 749L.
Inside the RAV4 cabin, there is better ease of use for the driver. An enhanced entertainment experience with a new multi-media system features swipe across screens to mirror personal digital devices.
Island architecture is a design in which various functions, such as displays and switches, are grouped together.
In addition to a horizontal instrument panel that makes it easy to maintain a sense of balance as an SUV, this architecture offers improved usability by arranging the navigation system, meters, and other elements in such a way that eye movement is reduced.
There will be three model types available in New Zealand.
The centre console's design enhances usability with the thoughtful placement of fast-charging smartphone pads and USB ports. It also comes with a reversible console box lid that can normally be used as an armrest but can serve as a tray when flipped over.
While the overall RAV4 size remains the same, the back door window angle is now more upright, resulting in the boot capacity expansion from the previous 733L to 749L. By making the rear seatbacks even flatter when folded, the ease of storage for longer items has also been improved.
First customer orders of the sixth-generation RAV4 are expected to land in New Zealand in the first half of 2026.
