2026 Toyota RAV4 HEV launched in Japan, PH next?

Earlier this year, North America was the first to receive the sixth-generation Toyota RAV4. Featuring a more dynamic appearance, the latest compact crossover borrows styling cues from the Camry and undergoes an extensive redesign, resulting in a significant makeover for the RAV4. In addition, the all-new crossover is now available either as a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) or as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV).

Fast forward to the end of 2025, and the sixth-generation Toyota RAV4 has been launched in its home market, Japan. Unlike the North American version, which is offered with two electrified powertrain options, the Japanese-spec RAV4 is only available as an HEV, as the PHEV variant will be offered at a later date.

It's powered by a 2.5L A25A-FXS inline-four that's assisted by an electric motor. It delivers a combined 240 PS and comes with an E-CVT and the E-Four electric 4WD system. It's no longer the full-time AWD system from before, as the drivetrain can now disconnect power from the rear wheels when not needed, saving on fuel costs.

When the terrain becomes tougher or more slippery, the system can automatically send power to the rear wheels for added traction and grip. It also has two drive modes available, Trail Mode & Snow Mode, for when going off the beaten path.

Style-wise, the 2026 RAV4 looks just like the one that was revealed in North America. It gets a distinct front fascia with C-shaped LED headlights, a unique grille, bold wheel arch moldings, muscular rear doors, and eye-catching LED taillights.

Hop inside, and the RAV4 welcomes you into a more ergonomic cabin that also features a rugged-like finish. It still has plenty of physical controls for the in-car features, which is a plus. However, the climate control system is now housed within a dedicated panel that is shown permanently on the bottom of the 12.9-inch touchscreen media display.

Other features in the RAV4 include a new heads-up display, a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, an electronic gear selector, a panoramic camera system, leather seats, a wireless charging pad, and a host of USB charging ports.

With the all-new Toyota RAV4 now in Japan, perhaps it's only a matter of time before it arrives in the Philippines. Heck, just last month, we received information that Toyota Motor Philippines has been given regulatory approval for an upcoming passenger vehicle with a 2487cc gasoline engine. Its displacement is similar to that of the 2.5L A25A-FXS four-cylinder engine, which powers the latest RAV4.

With that, we're keeping our fingers crossed the sixth-generation RAV4 will arrive sometime next year.