Toyota’s global reveal of sixth-gen RAV4
The sixth-generation Toyota RAV4 will come as PHEV and RS Sport. Photos: Toyota
The sixth generation of the Toyota RAV4 has just been revealed in Tokyo, Japan with the ever-popular SUV getting a major exterior and interior update.
The RAV4 had its beginnings in 1994, when sport utility vehicles (SUVs) were positioned as off-road vehicles. It pioneered the crossover SUV genre for both on-and off-road driving. Since then, the RAV4 has evolved into a beloved model around the world.
The current fifth-generation hybrid-only RAV4 has dominated the local new passenger car market and is currently the top-selling vehicle in New Zealand.
But the 2026 RAV4 will be even more desirable for new car buyers thanks to a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model plus Toyota New Zealand will also offer its first ever GR Sport version of the RAV4.
More information on the new-generation RAV4, including confirming local specification and grade line-up, will be made available closer to its arrival in the first half of 2026 but what we know is that the futuristic design makes it an appealing vehicle.
The 2026 RAV4 will have a new interior.
The sixth-generation RAV4 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain supports the Toyota multi-pathway powertrain strategy. By offering a variety of powertrains, customers can choose what suits their lifestyle best. Being able to offer the new-generation RAV4 in both hybrid and plug-in hybrid allows customers the choice but also allows them to dip deeper into the EV powertrain.
The new-generation RAV4 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain offers the choice of powerful two-wheel drive or all-wheel drive (AWD), targets an increased EV range, and has a lower CO₂ impact than its hybrid counterparts.
The GR Sport RAV4 has the efficient PHEV AWD powertrain, providing a more dynamic expression of the RAV4’s handling characteristics and design cues. It brings motorsport-inspired driving character and unique visual flair, setting it apart from the rest of the line-up. Along with the GR Sport, the lineup will once again offer the Adventure grade for those who desire the off-road, rugged expeditions.
Tatsuya Ishikawa, Chief Executive Officer of Toyota NZ, says the new sixth-generation Toyota RAV4 is another major step forward for Toyota in its vision to make ever better cars and to offer many options across multiple powertrains so customers have more choice than ever before.
“From its inception in 1994, the RAV4 has been an outstanding expression of a crossover SUV, bred for both city and country use. Since then, through five generations, the RAV4 has evolved into an important model loved in 180 countries and regions, responding to various lifestyles that have changed with the times.
The Toyota RAV4 has a new exterior styling.
“With the RAV4 we aim to offer a companion that fits all lifestyles, whether in urban living or outdoor adventures,” Ishikawa says.
The sixth-generation RAV4 hybrid systems use Toyota’s latest technology with enhanced efficiency for the transaxle, power control unit, battery and electric motors.
Along with PHEV options, the RAV4 will again be available with Toyota’s popular and efficient series-parallel hybrid system in AWD and 2WD configurations.
Globally, the new-generation RAV4 gains additional safety features such as front cross-traffic alert, which is designed to minimise the risk of a collision with crossing traffic at intersections, while the blind spot monitor now includes the rear vehicle approach indicator feature.
