New Toyota RAV4 gets Land Cruiser-inspired looks and up to 300 bhp

Toyota’s stalwart RAV4 is back for a sixth generation, and it’s not short on shiny new features. From improved tech and practicality to a sporty new GR model, here’s everything you need to know.

While many SUVs models have come and gone over the last three decades, Toyota’s RAV4 has remained one of the sector’s safest bets. That said, it’s rarely excelled in one particular area. Ford’s Kuga, for example, has long been the sharpest to drive. Dacia’s Duster: the cheapest. And, of course, Honda’s CRV: the most reliable — both in terms of build quality and the consistency of its strengths. 

So what about the RAV4, what’s its USP? Well, while it rarely takes home the trophy in any one category, it’s a fantastic all-rounder. Blending practicality, reliability, and even some decent off-road ability, previous RAV4’s have been (fairly) called a jack of all trades, master of none. 

Clearly, though, this new model is raring to shake off that adequate all-rounder image and put the RAV4 back on the map. And, with its new Land Cruiser-inspired looks, it’s off to a strong start. According to Toyota, the robust new styling ‘reflects the RAV4’s authentic SUV spirit — something that’s also expressed in a striking new model logo’. Up front, new Hammerhead lights and a distinctive grille give the update a more imposing appearance. Meanwhile, the overall theme is one of blocky shapes and squared-off edges. Has it worked? We think so. Unlike its all-electric sibling, the bZ4X, which could be accused of going slightly overboard in the pursuit of a personality, the new RAV4 strikes the right balance between visual intrigue and subtlety.

Inside, there’s less to write home about — at least from a design perspective. A large 12.9-inch central touchscreen dominates the cockpit, and all the essential controls look as though they’d fall easily to hand. However, there’s little in the way of premium materials or interestingly sculpted dash surfaces and, with the black-on-black colourway, you could even call the interior a little drab. Nevertheless, RAV4 does manage to redeem itself by trading stylistic flair for practicality. While we have no specific figures just yet, Toyota insists that the revised hybrid system (more on that later) offers a more spacious interior for all occupants. Moreover, the boot looks to be a generous size with a usefully wide opening. 

So it’s practical and attractive, but what’s new under those chunky panels? An exclusively plug-in powertrain, for one. While it’s not yet clear exactly which PHEV variant the UK will receive, there will be two hybridised versions available in Europe: a 264 bhp front-wheel-drive model, and a 300 bhp four-wheel-drive offering. With any luck, we Brits will get the more potent pairing, which is capable of a brisk 5.8 second 0-60 mph sprint, as well as up to 62 miles of all-electric running. What’s more, that 22.7 kWh battery can charge at up to 50 kW – offering a 10-80% recharge in just half an hour.

As for the ride and handling, we’ll need to reserve judgement until we get behind the wheel. That said, those looking for a sharper steer are in luck: a new GR Sport version is on its way. Boasting a 20 mm wider track, high-performance shock absorbers, strengthened rear bracing, and retuned springs and steering, the GR RAV4 looks to inject some of the SUPRA and GR86’s fine handling magic into this family bus. Granted, it’s still a heavy SUV, and it’s packing no extra power under the bonnet, but the GR should feel noticeably more engaging to pilot than the regular RAV4.   

Ultimately, we think the new RAV4 has finally managed to stand out from the crowd — and for all the right reasons. That means it all comes down to one thing: money. Unfortunately, though, Toyota is playing its cards close to its chest and hasn’t yet confirmed UK prices. That said, you can safely assume the new model will set you back more than the outgoing PHEV’s £44,395 starting price.  

Interested? Deliveries are scheduled to start in the spring of 2026, so keep your eyes peeled for further details.

Hero image credit:  Toyota