2026 Toyota RAV4 Canadian Release Date: When to Expect It

The all-new 2026 Toyota RAV4 is expected to arrive at Canadian dealerships in early 2026. Production has recently begun, and the sixth-generation model will reach showrooms across Ontario within the next few months. For drivers in Orangeville and throughout Dufferin County planning their next SUV purchase, this timeline offers a clear answer: the wait will be measured in weeks, not years.

This redesigned RAV4 brings a major change to Canada's best-selling SUV. For the first time, every 2026 RAV4 will be electrified, offering buyers a choice between a Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) or Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV). No gasoline-only models will be available. Along with this powertrain shift, the 2026 RAV4 introduces improved performance, expanded electric range, and new technology that sets it apart from the outgoing generation.

Release Timeline at a Glance

Toyota announced the 2026 RAV4 in May 2025, and production kicked off shortly after. The vehicle is now moving through the manufacturing pipeline, with deliveries to Canadian dealers scheduled for the first quarter of 2026. This puts the arrival window within the next several weeks.

For buyers considering the 2026 model, the timing means decisions can be made soon. Test drives and dealer allocations will become available as vehicles arrive, allowing shoppers to compare the new hybrid-only lineup in person.

What Makes the 2026 RAV4 Different

The shift to an all-hybrid lineup is the most visible change, but the 2026 RAV4 also receives updates across design, power, and capability.

All-Hybrid Powertrain Options

Every 2026 RAV4 will feature one of two electrified powertrains:

• Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV): Pairs a 2.5 L 4-cylinder engine with Toyota's fifth-generation hybrid system. System output climbs to 236 hp, up from 219 hp in the 2025 RAV4 Hybrid. The fifth-generation system brings improvements to the transaxle, power control unit, and battery, allowing the electric motor to contribute more power during acceleration and cruising.
• Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV): Combines the same 2.5 L engine with two electric motors and a high-capacity traction battery. The PHEV delivers up to 320 hp, an increase of 18 hp over the 2025 model. More importantly, the all-electric range grows to 80 km, a 20% improvement from the outgoing 68 km range.

Both powertrains come standard with all-wheel drive in Canada, providing year-round traction for Ontario drivers.

Improved Towing and Capability

The 2026 RAV4 also gains towing capacity on select grades. HEV models in XLE, Woodland, XSE, and Limited trims, along with PHEV SE and XSE grades, will be capable of towing up to 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs). This makes the RAV4 more versatile for drivers who occasionally haul trailers, boats, or other cargo.

Three New Design Styles

The sixth-generation RAV4 introduces three distinct design approaches: Core, Rugged, and Sport. Each style targets a different type of driver, with unique exterior treatments and available grades.

Core Design
The Core design includes the LE, XLE, and Limited grades. It features a sleek, paint-matched grille and Toyota's hammerhead front end, with wide overfenders and an ascending belt line. Wheels range from 17 to 20 inches depending on the grade.

Rugged Design
The Rugged design is exclusive to the Woodland grade, which becomes a standalone model in the 2026 lineup. This version has a raised ride height, all-terrain tires, and a split grille with integrated Rigid Industries LED lighting. It also includes raised roof rails with crossbars and a rear activity mount for outdoor gear. In Canada, the Woodland will be available as an HEV.

Sport Design
The Sport design covers the SE, XSE, and new GR SPORT grades. The GR SPORT is a first for the North American RAV4 and will be exclusive to the PHEV powertrain. Developed with input from Toyota GAZOO Racing, it features a GR-tuned suspension and power steering, enhanced body rigidity, and 20-inch wheels. The SE and XSE grades offer Sport styling with a choice of HEV or PHEV powertrains.

Technology and Interior Updates

Inside, the 2026 RAV4 offers a choice of a 10.5-inch or 12.9-inch touchscreen, with digital HVAC controls integrated into the display. A standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster provides customizable information, and a Head-Up Display will be standard on the Limited HEV and XSE Technology Package PHEV grades.

The cabin layout prioritizes functionality, with a simplified centre console that includes a shift-by-wire system on select grades. Storage options have been improved, with a removable cup holder divider and a two-way closure on the centre console storage bin.

The 2026 RAV4 will also debut Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, which includes updated hardware and detection capabilities. Full details on the active safety suite will be available closer to the on-sale date.

Why the Extended PHEV Range Matters

The 20% increase in PHEV range is one of the clearest advantages of the 2026 model. With 80 km of all-electric driving, many Ontario commuters can complete their daily trips without using gasoline.

For example, a driver in Orangeville who commutes 50 km round-trip to Brampton can handle the entire drive on electric power. The same applies to trips to Caledon, Shelburne, or other nearby towns. Over the course of a year, this extended range reduces fuel costs and lowers emissions, while also taking advantage of Ontario's relatively low electricity rates compared to gasoline.

The PHEV also includes DC fast charging on the XSE Technology Package, allowing the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes. The SE, XSE, and GR SPORT PHEV models will use a J1772 charging port, with an 11-kW AC onboard charger available for faster home or public charging.

Canadian-Built Quality

Many RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid models are built at Toyota's Canadian manufacturing facilities, which have produced over 11 million vehicles. This local production supports jobs across Ontario and ensures the RAV4 meets Canadian market demands for durability, all-weather performance, and long-term reliability.

Grade Lineup for Canada

The 2026 RAV4 Canadian lineup includes the following combinations:

All grades come standard with all-wheel drive, Toyota Multimedia, and Toyota Safety Sense 4.0.

Should You Wait for the 2026 Model?

The decision depends on your timeline and priorities. If you need a RAV4 now, the 2025 models remain available and offer proven reliability with a range of powertrain options, including gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid.

If you can wait until early 2026, the redesigned model offers several advantages. The hybrid-only lineup ensures every buyer gets improved fuel economy and lower emissions. The PHEV's 80 km range makes it more practical for daily driving without gas, while the HEV's fifth-generation system delivers more power and refined efficiency. The new design styles also provide more choice, from the outdoor-ready Woodland to the performance-focused GR SPORT.

For buyers in Orangeville and across Dufferin County, the early 2026 arrival means the decision timeline is short. Dealers will begin accepting orders in the coming months and allocating inventory as vehicles become available, making it important to confirm your preferred grade and options as soon as the orders open.

Reserve Your 2026 RAV4 at Orangeville Toyota

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 will arrive at Orangeville Toyota in early 2026. Our team can help you compare the HEV and PHEV models and explain the differences between Core, Rugged, and Sport designs. Contact us at Orangeville Toyota to learn more about the all-new RAV4.