2026 Toyota RAV4 Review: Specs, Pricing and Driving Experience

The Toyota RAV4 is one of Australia’s most popular SUVs, and the all-new 2026 model brings a fresh design, more technology and an expanded range of electrified powertrains.

Now in its sixth generation, the RAV4 continues to focus on the things buyers love about it: practicality, efficiency and easy everyday driving. The big news for 2026 is the introduction of a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), giving buyers more choice when it comes to electrification.

With strong competition from the Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage and Mitsubishi Outlander, does the new RAV4 still deserve a place at the top of the shopping list?

In Short

All-new sixth-generation RAV4 for 2026
2.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid powertrain
2WD and AWD hybrid options
New PHEV variants
Five-seat medium SUV
Fuel consumption from around 4.5L/100km
More technology and upgraded safety features
Pricing from approximately $46,000 to $66,000 before on-road costs
High demand means wait times may apply

Our Toyota RAV4 Rating: 8.8/10

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Excellent fuel efficiency
Practical and spacious interior
Hybrid power across the range
Comfortable and easy to drive
Improved technology
New PHEV option
Strong reputation for reliability

Cons:

Higher pricing than the outgoing model
Wait times may apply
No current ANCAP rating at launch
Engine can become noisy under hard acceleration

Pricing and Equipment

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 range spans approximately $46,000 to $66,000 before on-road costs, depending on the variant and powertrain.

The range includes a choice of hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, with 2WD and AWD available across selected variants.

Even the entry-level RAV4 comes with a strong level of standard equipment, while higher grades add features such as larger displays, premium audio, upgraded cameras, additional comfort features and sportier styling.

The new PHEV models sit towards the top of the range and are designed for buyers who want to make greater use of electric power in their everyday driving.

One thing to keep in mind is availability. Demand for the new-generation RAV4 is high, and wait times may apply depending on the variant and dealer. If you’re ready to buy, it’s worth comparing available stock and offers rather than assuming every model can be delivered immediately.

Warranty and Servicing

Toyota backs the RAV4 with its new-vehicle warranty program, while servicing is scheduled at regular intervals designed to keep ownership relatively straightforward.

The hybrid system also benefits from Toyota’s extensive experience with hybrid technology, which has been used across its range for many years.

For buyers considering the PHEV, home charging is worth thinking about before purchasing. The additional electric capability makes the most sense when you can regularly charge the vehicle and use that electric range for everyday trips.

Safety Ratings and Equipment

The 2026 RAV4 comes equipped with Toyota’s latest suite of active safety and driver-assistance technology.

Depending on the variant, features include autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane assistance, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Eight airbags are fitted across the range.

However, there’s an important consideration for buyers: the 2026 RAV4 does not currently have a current ANCAP safety rating.

The previous-generation RAV4’s five-star rating expired at the end of 2025, while the new model is being assessed against ANCAP’s updated 2026 testing requirements.

This doesn’t mean the new RAV4 lacks safety equipment, but buyers who specifically require a current five-star ANCAP rating should factor this into their decision.

Space, Comfort and Quality

The RAV4 has always been a practical choice, and the new model continues that tradition.

The five-seat cabin provides good space for both front and rear passengers, while the boot is well suited to everyday family use. There’s enough room for shopping, luggage, prams and sports equipment without the RAV4 becoming difficult to manoeuvre around town.

The new interior also feels more modern than its predecessor, with updated digital displays and infotainment giving the cabin a more premium feel.

Higher-spec variants add further comfort and convenience features, but even the lower grades retain the practical, straightforward character that has made the RAV4 so popular.

Powertrain and Driving Experience

The 2026 RAV4 uses a 2.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid system, with 2WD and AWD available depending on the variant.

Toyota claims fuel consumption from around 4.5L/100km for 2WD models and 4.6L/100km for AWD models, making efficiency one of the RAV4’s biggest strengths.

Around town, the hybrid system feels smooth and responsive, with the electric motor providing useful assistance at lower speeds. The RAV4 is comfortable on longer drives too, making it well suited to commuting, school runs and family road trips.

It’s not intended to be a sporty SUV. Instead, the RAV4 prioritises comfort, refinement and efficiency.

Under harder acceleration, the petrol engine can become noticeably louder, but for everyday driving the powertrain is easy to live with.

The New RAV4 PHEV

One of the biggest changes for 2026 is the arrival of the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid in Australia. Unlike the standard hybrid, the PHEV can be plugged into an external power source to charge its larger battery. This allows more everyday driving to be completed using electric power before the petrol engine is required.

For buyers with home charging and shorter daily commutes, the PHEV could be an appealing middle ground between a traditional hybrid and a fully electric SUV. For everyone else, the standard Hybrid remains the simpler and more affordable option.

Technology and Connectivity

Technology has received a significant upgrade for the new generation.The RAV4 features updated digital displays and infotainment, with smartphone connectivity and a range of connected and convenience features available depending on the variant. Higher grades bring additional technology and premium equipment, helping the RAV4 compete with increasingly well-equipped rivals from Hyundai, Kia and newer Chinese brands. Importantly, Toyota hasn’t sacrificed usability for technology. The cabin remains relatively straightforward and easy to understand.

How Does the RAV4 Compare?

The RAV4 sits in one of Australia’s most competitive SUV segments.

The Mazda CX-5 remains a strong choice for buyers who prioritise interior quality and driving dynamics, while the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage offer impressive technology and equipment.

The Mitsubishi Outlander is worth considering if seven seats or PHEV capability are priorities, while the Honda CR-V provides another practical family-focused alternative.

The RAV4’s biggest advantage is its combination of hybrid efficiency, practicality and Toyota’s established reputation.

Verdict: 2026 Toyota RAV4

The new Toyota RAV4 doesn’t completely reinvent the formula that made the previous model so successful. Instead, it modernises it. The result is a comfortable, practical and highly efficient medium SUV with more technology and greater choice than before. The addition of the PHEV gives buyers another electrified option, while the standard Hybrid remains the pick for those wanting a simple and fuel-efficient everyday SUV. The biggest considerations are the higher pricing, potential wait times and the absence of a current ANCAP rating.

For buyers looking for a practical, economical and easy-to-live-with family SUV, the 2026 Toyota RAV4 remains one of the strongest options in its class.

Motor Scout Rating: 8.8/10

2026 Toyota RAV4 Specifications

Feature	Specification
Model	Toyota RAV4
Body style	Medium SUV
Seats	5
Engine	2.5L petrol-electric hybrid
Powertrain	Hybrid / PHEV
Drive	2WD / AWD
Transmission	e-CVT
Fuel consumption	From approx. 4.5L/100km
Price	Approx. $46,000–$66,000 + on-road costs
ANCAP	Currently unrated
Main rivals	Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Mitsubishi Outlander, Honda CR-V