2026 Toyota RAV4, boxy new design spotted.

The Toyota RAV4 has reigned for decades as the epitome of affordable, practical, and reliable. But with the current fifth-generation model, Toyota has dialed up performance by adding a 302-horsepower plug-in hybrid powertrain.

The current RAV4 has been on sale since 2018, making it one of the oldest vehicles in Toyota's lineup. That won't be the case for long, as the new sixth-generation model has been spotted testing ahead of its scheduled debut later this year.

Through the camouflage, we can see that the designers have opted for a more sculpted look for the new RAV4, along with headlights and grille combinations similar to those seen on the Toyota Crown Signia introduced for the 2025 model year. It also appears to have a steeper sloping windshield compared to the current RAV4, plus a more upright tailgate that should lead to more cargo space.

Toyota has yet to share details of the new RAV4, but according to our photographer, an electric powertrain is not expected, even though Toyota engineers were spotted testing the prototype with a Tesla Model Y. Instead, Toyota will likely offer an all-hybrid lineup, as already seen in the latest Camry unveiled for the 2025 model year. Toyota executives said last year that the automaker is considering offering only gas engines combined with hybrid technology in the U.S.

All 2025 Camry models are powered by a 184 hp 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine. In front-wheel drive models, it is paired with a hybrid system and produces a maximum output of 225 hp. All-wheel-drive models are equipped with an electric motor on the rear axle for a slightly higher total output of 232 hp; expect the RAV4 to be similarly equipped. A plug-in hybrid powertrain should also be offered, but probably not at launch.

The new RAV4 platform will likely be the latest evolution of the TNGA-K modular platform that underpins the current RAV4. There are rumors that more aluminum will be used in place of non-structural steel elements to reduce weight.

The new RAV4 is expected to hit U.S. showrooms later this year as a 2026 model with a base price in the low $30,000 range. This is a formula Toyota cannot afford to mistake. With 475,193 units sold in the U.S. last year, the current RAV4 is Toyota's most popular vehicle and the third best-selling overall, behind the Ford F-Series and Chevrolet Silverado pickup trucks.