2026 Toyota RAV4 teased one last time

Ahead of the 2026 Toyota RAV4’s debut on May 21, the world’s favourite mid-size SUV has been teased one more time, giving us a sneaky peak at its front and rear styling.

The latest pics reveal that instead of shifting to a design inspired by the latest LandCruiser Prado, the new RAV4 will adopt a pair of hammerhead-shaped headlights and a front bumper with a large air dam, while still sporting rugged overall proportions reminiscent of a proper 4x4.

At the rear there’s a full-width LED taillight, a boxier overall shape and the same squared-off arches that are shared with the current model.

Already spotted in testing, the sixth-generation mid-size SUV shifts to a more rugged-feeling cabin, with chunkier detailing and a stepped dash.

In the centre of the dash is a much larger 14.0-inch infotainment system that looks like it’s been pinched from the full-size Tundra ute.

Ahead of the driver, another large digital instrument cluster lurks, with both set to be powered by the brand’s latest software.

From the spy shots, we already know designers have given the new RAV4 boxy styling that will maximise space and provide a deep and wide tailgate, boosting the mid-size SUV’s appeal for families.

Early intel suggests a GR Sport trim will be offered from launch, which should introduce bigger wheels and further design cues lifted from motorsport.

Beneath the skin, the next RAV4 will be based on an upgraded version of the Toyota TNGA-K architecture that underpins the current SUV.

For Australia, expect the RAV4 to come with a full range of electrified powertrains centred around a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, with the unit mated to a CVT transmission.

Combined with an e-motor and a lithium-ion battery, both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive are expected.

The most advanced versions will feature Toyota’s latest plug-in hybrid power that will blend a much larger battery for an all-electric range that could exceed 100km.

Missing from the line-up, however, is an all-electric version. It’s been rumoured the TNGA-K platform doesn’t quite provide enough space for a large battery required for the 500km-plus range expected of a mid-size all-electric SUV.

There’s no word yet if Toyota Australia will import the plug-in version of the next-gen RAV4 but expect an announcement following the model’s official unveiling on May 21.

The new Toyota RAV4 is a crucial model for Toyota Australia, as last year it was easily the best-selling mid-size SUV and the nation’s second-best-selling car, with 58,718 examples delivered after the Ford Ranger with 62,593.

If that’s not impressive enough, last year Toyota sold more than a million RAV4s globally, making it the world’s third-best-selling vehicle outright.

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