Islamabad, 22 May, 2025:Toyota RAV4, the globally popular compact SUV, has entered its sixth generation with a bold move retiring the traditional petrol engine entirely in favour of an all-hybrid and plug-in hybrid lineup.
The redesigned 2026 model aims to blend environmental responsibility with dynamic performance, advanced features, and practical versatility, reflecting the evolving demands of today’s drivers.
Toyota RAV4 Embraces a Fully Electrified Future
At the core of the Toyota RAV4 revamp is a complete shift to electrified powertrains. Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid technology now powers the front-wheel-drive variant with a boost to 226 horsepoweran increase of 23 hp compared to the previous petrol model.
All-wheel-drive versions climb to 236 hp, up 17 hp from before. Although official fuel economy statistics remain pending, Toyota claims efficiency gains due to improvements in battery and power management systems.
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Replacing the RAV4 Prime is a next-gen plug-in hybrid variant, packing 320 hp through dual electric motors and a larger battery.
The vehicle now promises an extended electric-only driving range of 50 miles—eight more than its predecessor.
Top trims, including the XSE and off-road focused Woodland edition, now support DC fast charging, while all models come with an 11-kilowatt onboard charger.
Performance Meets Utility
Despite the electrified transition, the Toyota RAV4 continues to deliver in practicality. Towing capacity for AWD models holds firm at 3,500 pounds, while FWD versions now pull up to 1,750 pounds, an increase over earlier models.
Toyota has restructured the RAV4 lineup into three themes: Core (LE, XLE, Limited), Rugged (Woodland), and Sport (SE, XSE, GR Sport).
The GR Sport, debuting as Toyota’s first performance-centric RAV4, comes standard with AWD and the high-output plug-in hybrid system for quicker acceleration and enhanced handling.
Updated Styling and Technology
The 2026 RAV4 introduces sharper looks with a bolder grille, 20-inch wheels, and a sportier rear spoiler. Inside, the cabin feels more refined with suede and synthetic leather finishes.
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Drivers benefit from new digital displays, including a 10.5-inch infotainment system and a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, with some models offering a 12.9-inch multimedia touchscreen.
Safety Gets a Major Upgrade
The sixth-gen Toyota RAV4 also debuts Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, a suite of advanced safety systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and automatic emergency braking.
Additional features include a panoramic monitor, improved lane change assist, and remote-controlled parking.
Set to launch globally in March 2026, the all-new Toyota RAV4 represents a significant evolution of one of the world’s most successful SUVs. Pricing is expected to be announced closer to the release date.
