The 2026 Toyota RAV4: Australia's First Plug-In Hybrid Toyota

The 2026 Toyota RAV4: Australia's First Plug-In Hybrid Toyota

Here's the headline: the Toyota RAV4, already Australia's best-selling passenger vehicle, is about to make history.

When the all-new sixth-generation RAV4 lands in the first half of 2026, it'll become the first Toyota in Australia to be offered as a Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV).

For everyday drivers who care about safety, efficiency, and practicality, this is big news.

Why the Plug-In Hybrid RAV4 is a Game-Changer

So, what makes a PHEV different from the hybrid RAV4 we know and love? Simple: it gives you the ability to drive on electric power alone for short trips, then switch to petrol-hybrid power when you need extra range.

Think about the errands, commutes, and school runs that fill a typical week - many of those can be done quietly in EV mode, without using a drop of petrol. Then, when the longer drives come along - whether that's heading up the coast, visiting family further afield, or getting out of town for a weekend - the hybrid system has you covered. No range anxiety, no compromises.

And the numbers back it up:

• GR Sport AWD PHEV: 227kW combined power, the most powerful RAV4 ever.
• XSE PHEV (2WD or AWD): 200kW combined output, efficient but still plenty of punch.

Both grades even include a 1500W inverter, so you can power small appliances - perfect for road trips, camping, or outdoor activities.

Safety and Tech Everyone Can Count On

The RAV4 has always been trusted for its reliability, and the 2026 model takes it even further.

Every grade gets Toyota's latest Safety Sense, which now includes:

• Front cross-traffic alert for busier intersections
• Improved blind spot monitoring and lane trace assist
• Smarter pre-collision safety that can detect bikes and motorcycles
• A panoramic 3D view monitor that makes tight parking simple

Inside, there's more tech to keep everyone connected and comfortable. A new 10.5-inch multimedia screen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, a crisp 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and up to five USB-C ports mean the car is as family-friendly as it is future-ready.

Even the base GX feels well-equipped, but move up the grades and you'll see features like panoramic roofs, JBL® premium audio, and heated/ventilated seating - all the touches that make long drives that bit easier.

Built for Real Life

The RAV4 is designed to handle the full mix of daily life - city driving during the week, and bigger trips when the weekend calls. That's where the broad choice of hybrid and plug-in hybrid options shines.

• Edge AWD Hybrid: Adventure-ready, with rugged styling and trail & snow modes.
• Cruiser and XSE grades: A touch more premium, with moonroofs, bigger wheels, and extra creature comforts.
• GR Sport AWD PHEV: For those who want it all - performance, power, and GR-inspired styling.

And with new colours like Massive Grey, Dusty Bronze, and Daintree Green, there's something to suit every personality.

When Can You Get One?

The all-new Toyota RAV4 is set to arrive in Australia in the first half of 2026. Pricing and final specifications will be confirmed closer to launch, but one thing's certain: this is going to be the most versatile, most advanced RAV4 yet.

It's already the go-to SUV for many Australians, and with the arrival of Toyota's first Plug-In Hybrid, the RAV4 will offer even more of what drivers care about most: safety, practicality, running costs, and reliability.

So, if you've been waiting for an SUV that balances electric innovation with Toyota dependability, this is it.