Toyota unveils the all-new sixth-generation RAV4, signaling a major step forward for one of the world’s most recognized crossovers. Built for modern lifestyles and outdoor adventures alike, the new RAV4 gets sharper looks, improved electrified powertrains, and Toyota’s first use of its in-house software platform, Arene.
Launched in 1994, the RAV4 helped define the crossover SUV segment. Now in its sixth generation, it continues to evolve with features tailored for today’s drivers, from advanced safety and multimedia systems to smarter off-road capabilities.
The new RAV4 comes in two electrified forms: HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) and PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle). The PHEV model benefits from Toyota’s newly developed plug-in hybrid system, combining a high-capacity drive battery and a high-output charger. It’s the first time Toyota’s sixth-generation hybrid system is used in a production vehicle.
The improvements are immediately noticeable. The battery now supports a BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) cruising range of 150 kilometers — up from 95 km in the previous model — thanks to increased capacity and reduced power loss. Silicon carbide power semiconductors on the front axle help shrink component size while improving efficiency. The system also supports DC fast charging, reaching 80 percent battery in about 30 minutes.
HEV models also get upgrades, with higher motor output and improved components across the transaxle, power control unit, and battery. The result is more agile acceleration, especially from a stop, and a more responsive driving feel overall.
For added convenience, the PHEV model now supports vehicle-to-home (V2H) capability, letting owners use the RAV4 as a backup power source for their homes.
Toyota offers three distinct versions of the new RAV4:
Core: Clean and contemporary, with a hammerhead front design and a cohesive bumper and grille layout. It’s designed to fit city streets while still hinting at off-road strength.
Adventure: Built to look the part on rugged terrain. Wider tracks, pronounced wheel arches, and a more elevated hammerhead nose give it an aggressive, trail-ready stance.
GR SPORT: Sporty and planted, this variant draws from Toyota’s motorsport know-how. Wider tracks, tuned suspension, and exclusive aero parts contribute to better handling and a more athletic profile. Lightweight wheels and improved EPS (electric power steering) make it the most driver-focused of the three.
Inside: Designed for Utility and Ease
Inside, Toyota trims and reorganizes the cabin to feel more open and functional. The top of the instrument panel is lowered by about 40 mm to improve outward visibility. Digital displays and infotainment elements are placed to minimize eye movement while driving.
The new “island architecture” groups screens, shifters and other controls like islands on the dashboard, improving ergonomics without cluttering the layout. Storage space sees an upgrade too, with more versatile compartments and thoughtful touches like a reversible center console armrest that doubles as a tray.
In the back, trunk capacity expands from 733L to 749L — without increasing vehicle size. The rear seatbacks now fold flatter, making it easier to store longer or bulkier items.
For the first time, Toyota uses Arene, a software platform developed by Woven by Toyota, to run key vehicle systems. Arene turns the RAV4 into a software-defined vehicle (SDV), allowing features and updates to evolve over time. The goal: to reduce traffic accidents, increase security, and boost the overall driving experience.
This includes a new-generation multimedia system with a customizable home screen and faster voice recognition, as well as Toyota’s latest Safety Sense package. Safety Sense now features:
Emergency Driving Stop System (EDSS): If the driver becomes unresponsive, the car slows down and, when possible, pulls over safely using sensor data.
Sudden Acceleration Suppression: Limits acceleration when it detects errant or excessive pedal input, even if there’s no obstacle present.
These improvements aim to increase peace of mind, in busy city streets or long highway drives.
With its bold new styling, better electric range, smarter cabin and intelligent systems under the hood, the sixth-generation RAV4 stays true to its roots while aiming squarely at the future. Toyota plans to roll it out to over 180 countries and regions worldwide.