Toyota’s First Plug-In Hybrid SUV in Australia: 2026 Toyota RAV4 Specs Revealed

Toyota’s First Plug-In Hybrid SUV in Australia: 2026 Toyota RAV4 Specs Revealed
Best Price?
CarSauce Buy 2.0 is out now.

Toyota has confirmed the sixth-generation RAV4 will arrive in Australia in the first half of 2026, introducing an expanded line-up, the country’s first plug-in hybrid (PHEV) RAV4, and the addition of a new GR Sport flagship grade.

This latest update builds on what we reported when the 2026 Toyota RAV4 was first revealed in May, with Toyota now detailing specific grades, colour choices, equipment packages, and new-generation safety and multimedia technology.

The Toyota RAV4 GR Sport will debut in 2026

The line-up will grow to six grades: GX, GXL, Cruiser, XSE, Edge, and the new GR Sport. Conventional hybrid (HEV) powertrains remain standard across the range, while PHEV variants will be available in XSE and GR Sport grades.

The new PHEV system combines a 2.5-litre engine with a 22.7kWh battery and electric motors. The AWD PHEV produces 227kW, while the 2WD variant generates 200kW.

Toyota says the PHEV is capable of EV-only driving under certain conditions and offers a 1500W inverter to power small appliances.

HEV variants produce 143kW across both 2WD and AWD models, with Toyota adopting its fifth-generation hybrid system.

Compared to the outgoing RAV4 Hybrid, this represents a slight reduction in output but with improved efficiency and smoother operation.

Each grade brings distinct equipment. The entry-level GX includes 17-inch alloys, a 10.5-inch multimedia system, 12.3-inch digital cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Toyota Connected Services. The GXL adds 18-inch alloys, privacy glass, and electric seat adjustment.

The Edge grade is now AWD-only with outdoor styling cues, heated front seats, a powered tailgate, and a larger 12.9-inch infotainment screen.

The XSE features 20-inch black alloys, two-tone paint, ventilated suede/leather seats, and additional driver assistance technology.

The Cruiser introduces premium features such as a JBL audio system, head-up display, and panoramic roof.

At the top of the range, the GR Sport is offered exclusively with the AWD PHEV. It gains GR-themed bumpers, a wing-type spoiler, unique suspension tuning with stiffer dampers, a wider track, and GR-branded interior trim.

Toyota has also broadened the RAV4 colour palette with new options including Massive Grey, Urban Rock, Feverish Red, Dusty Bronze, and Daintree Green. Selected colours will be available with two-tone black roof finishes on grades such as the XSE.

Safety has been upgraded with the latest Toyota Safety Sense suite. Features include front cross-traffic alert, improved blind spot monitoring, lane trace assist, and a more advanced pre-collision system capable of detecting bicycles and motorcycles. A three-dimensional panoramic view monitor is also available.

The updated Toyota Connected Services package adds functionality through the myToyota Connect app, including connected navigation, emergency communication, and voice assistant support. The infotainment system is powered by Toyota’s new Arene software platform, allowing for faster processing and over-the-air updates.

The RAV4 continues to play a central role in Australia’s SUV market. In August new car sales, it ranked as the third best-selling vehicle with 4,115 units delivered, behind the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux. Toyota remains the overall market leader with more than 163,000 vehicles sold year-to-date.

Full Australian pricing and detailed specifications for the new RAV4 range will be announced closer to launch in 2026.

2026 Toyota RAV4 Specifications

2026 Toyota RAV4 GX (HEV 2WD / AWD)

  • 2.5-litre hybrid system, 143kW combined output
  • 17-inch dark grey alloy wheels
  • LED auto-levelling headlamps
  • 10.5-inch multimedia system with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
  • 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with smartphone integration
  • Toyota Connected Services with myToyota Connect app support
  • Five USB-C ports
  • Dual-zone climate control
  • Temporary spare tyre (full-size spare optional)

2026 Toyota RAV4 GXL (HEV 2WD / AWD)

  • Adds to GX features
  • 18-inch alloy wheels
  • Privacy rear and side glass
  • Leather-accented shift knob and steering wheel
  • Eight-way power driver’s seat with two-way lumbar support
  • Wireless smartphone charger

2026 Toyota RAV4 Edge (HEV AWD only)

  • AWD hybrid system, 143kW combined output
  • Unique front/rear bumpers with integrated silver skid plate
  • Wider black wheel arches
  • 12.9-inch touchscreen with integrated HVAC controls
  • Synthetic leather upholstery
  • Heated front seats
  • Powered tailgate
  • Downhill assist control and Trail & Snow drive mode

2026 Toyota RAV4 XSE (HEV AWD / PHEV 2WD + AWD)

  • 20-inch black alloy wheels
  • Two-tone paint options with black roof (selected colours)
  • Dark stainless steel-look moulding, black bumpers
  • Tilt and slide moonroof
  • Combination synthetic leather and suede upholstery
  • Heated and ventilated front seats (three-stage)
  • Driver memory function
  • Power-adjustable passenger seat
  • Panoramic view monitor
  • Climate concierge
  • PHEV versions: 200kW (2WD) or 227kW (AWD), 22.7kWh battery, EV-only drive capability, 1500W inverter

2026 Toyota RAV4 Cruiser (HEV 2WD / AWD)

  • 20-inch machined black alloy wheels
  • High-grade LED headlamps
  • Tilt and slide panoramic roof
  • Leather-accented upholstery
  • Head-up display
  • Dual wireless smartphone chargers
  • Digital rearview mirror
  • Nine-speaker JBL premium audio system

2026 Toyota RAV4 GR Sport (PHEV AWD only)

  • 227kW combined output from 2.5-litre PHEV hybrid system with dual electric motors
  • EV-only drive capability under certain conditions
  • Performance-focused suspension tuning with stiffer dampers and rear brace
  • 20mm wider track
  • Retuned steering calibration
  • 20-inch machined alloy wheels
  • GR-specific front and rear bumpers, wing-type spoiler
  • GR Sport seats, steering wheel, aluminium pedals, suede knee pads
  • Paddle shifters and GR stitching
  • 1500W inverter for powering appliances
Are you interested in a
Toyota
RAV4
and looking for the best price?

FAQ

When will the 2026 Toyota RAV4 be released in Australia?

keyboard_arrow_down

The all-new sixth-generation Toyota RAV4 is scheduled to arrive in Australian dealerships in the first half of 2026.

What powertrains will the 2026 Toyota RAV4 offer?

keyboard_arrow_down

Australian buyers will be able to choose between hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains, with outputs ranging from 143kW in HEV grades to 227kW in the AWD PHEV GR Sport.

Which is the most powerful 2026 Toyota RAV4?

keyboard_arrow_down

The RAV4 GR Sport, offered exclusively with the AWD plug-in hybrid system, produces 227kW and is the most powerful RAV4 to date.

What new safety features are included in the 2026 Toyota RAV4?

keyboard_arrow_down

The latest Toyota Safety Sense suite adds front cross-traffic alert, improved blind spot monitoring, enhanced lane trace assist, and upgraded pre-collision detection for bicycles and motorcycles, along with a 3D panoramic view monitor.

keyboard_arrow_down

keyboard_arrow_down

Jacob Brooke
I’m Jacob, the Co-founder and COO here at CarSauce. I started out in 2022 behind the camera, helping capture reviews when we were called "Matt Brand Cars," but my Computer Science background quickly pulled me into the business side of things. Now, I oversee the website and our written content to keep the engine running smoothly. You’ll also see me regularly on our YouTube channel, mostly just giving my long-time mate Matt a hard time. We’re all about making car reviews entertaining and easy to digest, and I’m stoked to be part of the team driving that mission.
Read more

Other

Toyota

News

Toyota Australia Announces Anti-Theft Upgrades for HiLux, LandCruiser and Prado

Toyota Australia Announces Anti-Theft Upgrades for HiLux, LandCruiser and Prado

Toyota Australia launches new security updates and accessories to combat high-tech theft syndicates targeting LandCruiser and Prado models.
Jacob Brooke
Jan 8, 2026 12:53 PM
2026 Toyota bZ4X: Prices Slashed by $10k, Range Increased to 591km

2026 Toyota bZ4X: Prices Slashed by $10k, Range Increased to 591km

Toyota reduces 2026 bZ4X price by up to $10k, starting at $55,990. Updates include 591km range, 22kW charging and more power for AWD.
Jacob Brooke
Dec 10, 2025 6:09 PM
Toyota Predicts Australian Ute Boom is Over as Market 'Pie' Shrinks

Toyota Predicts Australian Ute Boom is Over as Market 'Pie' Shrinks

Toyota sales boss Sean Hanley predicts the Aussie ute market has peaked, but says being wrong would be "worth a meat pie" for sales.
Jacob Brooke
Dec 11, 2025 6:00 AM

Other car news

2027 Volvo EX60 revealed

2027 Volvo EX60 revealed

All-new electric SUV has the BMW iX3 firmly in its sights and offers up to 810km of range
Scott Newman
Jan 23, 2026 11:48 AM
BYD ATTO 1 Battery Cooling Confirmed: Why the "Essential" Isn't Just Air-Cooled

BYD ATTO 1 Battery Cooling Confirmed: Why the "Essential" Isn't Just Air-Cooled

BYD confirms all ATTO 1 variants, including the base Essential, feature active refrigerant cooling to handle the harsh Australian heat.
Jacob Brooke
Jan 22, 2026 5:37 PM
This is a Genesis ute – but you can’t have it

This is a Genesis ute – but you can’t have it

Korean luxury car maker Genesis has revealed a luxury dual-cab ute, but don't hold your breath for it to hit showrooms
Scott Newman
Jan 22, 2026 2:27 PM

Sign up to our newsletter

Be the first to know when we drop new car reviews.

By clicking Sign Up you're confirming that you agree with our Terms and Conditions.
Thank you! Welcome to the Car Sauce community!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
© 2024 Car Sauce. All right reserved.
Privacy Policy
Cookie Policy
Terms and Conditions