Toyota seems ready to shake things up in 2026 with a bold shift in its best-selling SUV. While the 2025 RAV4 quietly retired the Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims, the buzz around the redesigned 2026 RAV4 is louder than ever. New spy shots hint at a boxier look—but what's really stirring curiosity is what Toyota might be hiding under the hood. 🚗
What's Under the Hood of the 2026 Toyota RAV4?
A major rumor gaining traction suggests Toyota may phase out gasoline-only RAV4s entirely in 2026. Just like the 2025 Camry, the next-gen RAV4 might offer only hybrid and plug-in hybrid options.
Expected Hybrid Setup
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Toyota could adopt a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with electric motors
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Combined output may be 225 hp (FWD) and 232 hp (AWD)—mirroring the Camry
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AWD likely to include an extra rear electric motor for better traction
This setup could improve fuel economy while keeping performance strong, aligning with Toyota’s strategy to reduce emissions across its lineup.
2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) Likely to Return
The high-performance plug-in hybrid RAV4—previously known as the RAV4 Prime—is almost certain to make a return in 2026.
What to Expect
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Same 2.5L Dynamic Force engine with electric motors
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Combined output near 302 horsepower
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Fast 0–60 mph acceleration, continuing its reputation for sporty performance
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Possible improvements to EV range (currently ~42 miles) and charging speed
Buyers may see a longer electric-only range and faster charging tech, although Toyota hasn’t confirmed these upgrades just yet.
Say Goodbye to Gas-Only RAV4?
If Toyota goes all-in on hybrids, the 2026 RAV4 might completely drop gasoline-only options. That would be a bold move in a crowded SUV market—but it fits Toyota’s long-term electrification roadmap.
Is a Fully Electric 2026 Toyota RAV4 Coming Soon?
While some reports hint at a fully electric RAV4, it's unlikely to debut in 2026. Instead, Toyota seems more focused on its existing EV—the bZ4X—for the compact electric SUV space.
The 2026 RAV4 is expected to stay on Toyota's TNGA-K platform, which does support electrification, but no official electric RAV4 announcements have been made.
2026 Toyota RAV4 Specifications
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Conclusion
Toyota is clearly leaning into hybrid technology, and the 2026 RAV4 may mark a turning point for the SUV segment. With the possible elimination of gasoline-only models and a stronger push toward electrification, Toyota is positioning the RAV4 for a more eco-conscious future. We’ll likely learn more as the official launch approaches—but for now, all signs point to a hybrid-focused revolution.
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