Toyota is ushering in a new chapter for its SUV lineup, beginning with the full redesign of its best-selling model, the Toyota RAV4. The 2026 RAV4 introduces a new generation for the brand’s cornerstone compact SUV, bringing a wave of structural, technological, and powertrain upgrades. But the momentum doesn’t stop there—Toyota has also unveiled important updates to the 2026 Corolla Cross, the bZ all-electric SUV, and the fully electric 2026 Toyota C-HR. Together, these models showcase the direction Toyota is heading: more electrification, smarter interiors, and broader SUV variety.
Let’s begin with the centerpiece of Toyota’s SUV transformation: the all-new 2026 RAV4.
For 2026, the RAV4 will no longer be available with a traditional internal combustion engine. Toyota has committed to an all-electrified RAV4 lineup consisting of two powertrains: a hybrid (HEV) and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV). This marks a major step toward full carbon reduction, as Toyota moves to transition its most popular SUV away from fossil fuel dependency.
The hybrid system now uses Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid architecture, boosting combined output to 236 horsepower, while the PHEV model offers up to 320 horsepower, making it the most powerful RAV4 yet. This dual-powertrain strategy allows drivers to choose between higher efficiency or electric-first driving without sacrificing practicality.
Toyota has overhauled the RAV4’s trim structure by introducing three visual identities: Core, Rugged, and Sport. These styling themes don’t just alter appearance—they reflect functional differences and help buyers pick a model tailored to their needs.
The Core models (LE, XLE, Limited) focus on refinement and simplicity, with colour-matched grilles and elegant styling. The Rugged Woodland model stands alone with all-terrain tires, higher ride height, and functional roof rails. The Sport lineup (SE, XSE, GR SPORT) introduces motorsport-inspired design cues, larger wheels, and athletic stance. The GR SPORT, developed with Toyota GAZOO Racing, is an all-new addition with performance-tuned components and aggressive style.
Efficiency and capability have both improved for the 2026 RAV4. The plug-in hybrid model now offers an estimated 80 km of electric-only range, a 20% improvement over the outgoing RAV4 Prime. This extended range provides more opportunity for zero-emission driving—ideal for commuters.
On the utility front, several hybrid and plug-in trims—such as the Woodland, XSE, Limited, and SE PHEV—now tow up to 3,500 pounds. That’s a boost from the hybrid’s previous maximum of 1,750 pounds and means owners no longer have to choose between fuel savings and towing strength.
Inside, the 2026 RAV4 features a redesigned cockpit built around clarity and functionality. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is now standard across the lineup. A 10.5-inch or available 12.9-inch centre touchscreen integrates climate and multimedia functions, while a minimalist gear selector on some trims introduces Toyota’s new shift-by-wire system.
Toyota’s Arene software platform makes its debut here. It underpins the multimedia interface and enables Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, the next evolution of the brand’s safety technologies. The multimedia system now supports wireless Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, dual Bluetooth pairing, and a redesigned voice assistant for faster responses.
New to the RAV4 lineup is the GR SPORT, a performance-oriented trim inspired by Toyota’s motorsport arm. It features unique GR-tuned suspension, exclusive 20-inch wheels with a wider offset, and paddle shifters. Inside, it receives sport seats with microsuede, GR-branded headrests, and aluminum pedals.
Offered only as a plug-in hybrid, the GR SPORT pairs high-output electric motors with a sporty chassis setup. It provides the strongest performance ever from a RAV4 without compromising fuel efficiency or all-weather traction.
The popular subcompact Toyota Corolla Cross also receives a mid-cycle update for 2026. While it retains its practical proportions, the front fascia has been revised for a bolder look. Hybrid models now feature a sleek colour-matched grille, while gas-powered trims adopt a wider, more rugged grille treatment.
Inside, the Corolla Cross now offers a 10.5-inch touchscreen, and the centre console has been redesigned to include more practical storage and user-friendly controls. On the XLE and XSE grades, new 18-inch alloy wheels enhance the stance, while a new Cavalry Blue exterior colour brings an eye-catching option to the palette.
While the Corolla Cross remains available in both gas and hybrid formats, the update makes the hybrid variant look more premium while adding a bit more visual separation between trims.
Toyota’s commitment to electric vehicles grows with updates to its bZ all-electric SUV for 2026. Most notably, AWD models now offer up to 460 km of range (manufacturer estimate), a 25% increase over the previous rating of 367 km. This gain comes from improvements to battery efficiency and powertrain tuning.
Additionally, AWD versions receive a massive performance boost, jumping from 214 to 338 combined system horsepower—a 50% increase. This brings the bZ SUV more in line with competitors in terms of both performance and capability.
The model now includes the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, giving owners access to thousands of high-speed charging stations across the continent. Other changes include restyled front and rear fascia elements, new overfenders, and a revised interior with a 14-inch multimedia display. It remains available in XLE, XLE AWD, and Limited AWD trims.
Rounding out Toyota’s refreshed SUV range is the 2026 Toyota C-HR, which has been fully reimagined as a battery-electric vehicle. More than just a design experiment, the new C-HR now offers up to 500 km of range (estimated for FWD models) and comes standard with All-Wheel Drive on most trims.
Power is not lacking either—AWD models produce 338 hp, matching the bZ SUV, and offering strong acceleration and responsiveness. Design-wise, the new C-HR features a dramatic exterior with available 20-inch wheels, a fixed panoramic glass roof, and a profile that leans into coupe-like proportions. Inside, drivers are treated to heated seats and steering wheel, and an optional 9-speaker JBL® audio system adds premium sound to the equation.
The 2026 C-HR is positioned as the sportiest of Toyota’s new EVs, both in styling and driving dynamics.
With the complete redesign of the 2026 RAV4, and substantial updates to the Corolla Cross, bZ electric SUV, and C-HR, Toyota is redefining its SUV strategy. Electrification is now central to that strategy—but rather than offering one solution for all, the brand is diversifying its powertrain options, styling directions, and performance levels to appeal to a wide range of drivers.
Whether you’re after plug-in flexibility, all-electric range, hybrid efficiency, or off-road readiness, Toyota’s 2026 SUV lineup offers something new in every segment. And it all begins with the most important launch of them all: the next-generation RAV4.
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