Currently New Zealand’s top selling vehicle – the RAV4 – is set to be released in a sixth generation that will make the versatile vehicle even more enthralling for new car buyers.

Since its launch in 2019, the fifth generation RAV4 has earned plaudits and well-deserved popularity from local and global mid-size SUV buyers. In New Zealand, the hybrid-only RAV4 has become ubiquitous on our city, town and rural roads. Known for its handling, striking looks and fuel-sipping hybrid powertrain, the RAV4 has proven to be a winner for Kiwi families, farmers and fleets.

And it is about to get even better. Toyota Motor Corporation has made significant upgrades to the sixth generation RAV4, particularly with its full exterior and interior redesign, latest generation hybrid electric-petrol powertrain, styling, safety technology and multimedia.

The sixth generation RAV4 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain supports the Toyota multi-pathway powertrain strategy. By offering a variety of powertrains, customers can choose what suits their lifestyle best. Being able to offer the new-generation RAV4 in both hybrid and plug-in hybrid allows customers the choice but also allows them to dip deeper into the EV powertrain.

The new-generation RAV4 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain offers the choice of powerful two-wheel drive or all-wheel drive (AWD), targets an increased EV range, and has a lower CO₂ impact than its hybrid counterparts.

Toyota New Zealand will also offer its first ever GR Sport version of the RAV4, for those people looking for something different from an SUV, with the powerful and efficient PHEV AWD powertrain providing a more dynamic expression of the RAV4’s handling characteristics and design cues. It brings motorsport-inspired driving character and unique visual flair, setting it apart from the rest of the line up. Along with the GR Sport, the line up will once again offer the Adventure grade for those who desire the off-road, rugged expeditions.

Tatsuya Ishikawa, Chief Executive Officer of Toyota NZ, says the new sixth generation Toyota RAV4 is another major step forward for Toyota in its vision to make ever better cars and to offer many options across multiple powertrains so customers have more choice than ever before.

“From its inception in 1994, the RAV4 has been an outstanding expression of a crossover SUV, bred for both city and country use. Since then, through five generations, the RAV4 has evolved into an important model loved in 180 countries and regions, responding to various lifestyles that have changed with the times.

“With the RAV4 we aim to offer a companion that fits all lifestyles, whether in urban living or outdoor adventures,” Ishikawa says.

The sixth generation RAV4 hybrid systems use Toyota’s latest technology with enhanced efficiency for the transaxle, power control unit, battery and electric motors.

Along with PHEV options, the RAV4 will again be available with Toyota’s popular and efficient series-parallel hybrid system in AWD and 2WD configurations, both of which provide excellent fuel economy and reduced emissions.

Globally, the new-generation RAV4 gains additional safety features such as front cross-traffic alert which is designed to minimise the risk of a collision with crossing traffic at intersections, while the blind spot monitor now includes the rear vehicle approach indicator feature.

More information on the new-generation RAV4, including confirming local specification and grade line-up, will be made available closer to its arrival in the first half of 2026.

Link to the global website to watch the global reveal at 1pm Wednesday 21 May NZT: https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/