A next-generation Toyota RAV4 is apparently around the corner for 2026, at least in its home market, according to Japan’s BestCar. The publication reports the new RAV4 could be ready for the Japanese Domestic Market by next year, after sharing the news bit in its physical publication, specifically in the February 2025 issue.
Despite the news speaking for the Japanese Domestic Market, the RAV4 has also always been a global model, with Japan being the first to receive its newer variants. After about a year, Toyota’s export markets, such as Europe and North America, typically receive their domesticated version. So, once Japan’s model debuts, it often gives us a solid look as to what to expect on our shores.
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New Design, Next-Generation Platform, And Revised Powertrains
According to the report, the new RAV4 lineup will be fully electrified with the range consisting of a gas-electric hybrid vehicle with an optional plug-in hybrid variant. A battery-electric variant is also in the works, meaning the next-gen model is likely to do away with any strict ICE version. From the sounds of it, Toyota’s adopting a new strategy similar to other automakers where it plans to offer consumers a range of powertrains, all in an effort to provide buyers with choice, rather than forcing them all into EVs.
As one of Toyota’s top-selling vehicles, the company doesn’t want to stray far from the RAV4’s already hugely successful formula. So, we shouldn’t expect much in the way of radical changes for the sixth-generation RAV4. The current fifth-generation model has been with us since 2018 as a 2019 model-year vehicle. Previous generations of RAV4 had a production lifecycle of five to seven years. Given that the current model just turned six, the RAV4 is likely due for a complete replacement to usher in the new sixth-gen model.
In terms of the overhaul, we expect the new RAV4 to take on updated styling both inside and out. But more so, the new RAV4 range is said to be fully electrified in some way, which suggests that there will no longer be a gas-only engine option like there is today. The current RAV4 in North America comes with the choice of a standard naturally-aspirated 2.5-liter gasoline four-banger, with an optional hybrid and plug-in hybrid variant.
Rumors suggested the new RAV4 could get one of Toyota’s new line of gasoline four-cylinders, either the new naturally-aspirated 1.5-liter or turbocharged 2.0-liter. But according to BestJapan, the new RAV4 will stick to using its tried, tested, and true 2.5-liter Dynamic Force “A25,” which is what currently powers the crossover. However, there weren’t any specifics on whether that arrangement was specifically for the JDM market or export markets.
The new model will utilize a completely new platform to accommodate the new all-electric RAV4. Further, according to BestCar, the new modular platform is a revised version of the current RAV4’s TNGA-K modular structure that also underpins the current Crown, Camry, and Harrier (the Lexus RX in North America).
In addition to the new platform, speculation suggests the RAV4 will grow in size, specifically in length and width, all to improve interior space and the car’s cargo capacity. In terms of styling, some digital renders suggest the RAV4 could adopt some of Toyota’s latest design cues as seen on the latest Crown and Prius, including the “hammerhead-like” front end.
Because the new RAV4 is expected to grow in size, thus requiring more materials, and with its electrified powertrain lineup expanding, it’s also anticipated to become slightly more expensive. Other factors affecting price include impending tariffs from the United States affecting global trade.
Ultimately, the new RAV4 is anticipated to arrive in the Japanese Domestic Market in the fall of 2026 with all three models launching at the same time. Knowing how Japan typically benefits from its new models first with export markets following shortly after, it’s safe to say, if this date holds true, the North American market could see its next-gen RAV4 replacement sometime in 2027.
