All-New Toyota RAV4 (Including GR Sport) Unveiled — Coming to South Africa in 2026

Toyota has pulled the wraps off the 6th-generation RAV4, ushering in a bold new era for the globally popular SUV. First unveiled in Japan, the new RAV4 will be offered in Core, Adventure, and GR Sport trims — with Toyota South Africa Motors confirming the local debut for the first half of 2026.

While final details for the South African line-up remain under wraps, excitement is already building for what’s expected to be a more refined, powerful, and tech-savvy RAV4 than ever before.

A Global Best-Seller Gets a Bold Makeover

The RAV4, which ranked 3rd on the list of best-selling vehicles globally in 2024, gets a complete refresh in this new generation. Although local sales in South Africa have dipped in recent years — just 1,174 units sold in 2024 and 525 more registered in early 2025 — the new model could reignite interest in the segment.

What’s New in the 2026 RAV4?

🔹 Exterior Updates

• Fresh design with unique styling per trim:
  • Core is city-focused
  • Adventure (also known as “Rugged” in North America) has off-road flair
  • GR Sport brings aggressive bodywork and sportier details
• New model-specific grille and bumper designs
• Derivative-specific alloy wheels
• Fresh RAV4 model logo and overall similar dimensions to the outgoing generation

🔹 Interior Upgrades

• Redesigned cabin featuring:
  • A 12.9-inch multimedia touchscreen
  • 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
  • Newest Toyota Safety Sense features
• Premium GR Sport interior includes:
  • Console knee pads, aluminium pedals, GR-branded sports seats

GR Sport: Built for Performance and Style

The GR Sport RAV4 is the performance-inspired flagship, showcasing:

• Wider track (+20 mm)
• Reinforced body rigidity and retuned suspension
• High-performance dampers and rear bracing
• Available 20-inch black twin-spoke alloy wheels
• Enhanced cabin finishes and GR-themed touches

Powertrains: Hybrid and Plug-In Electric Options

Toyota confirms both HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) and PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle) options for the new RAV4.

HEV Highlights:

• Improved performance via upgraded transaxle, power control unit, and battery
• Output varies by region; in Australia, HEV quoted at 143 kW

PHEV Highlights:

• Paired with a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine
• New 22.7 kWh lithium-ion battery for 100 km electric-only range
• AWD version produces 227 kW with a 0–100 km/h sprint time of 5.8 seconds
• A more affordable front-wheel-drive PHEV version delivers 201 kW

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RAV4 in South Africa: Current Status

The outgoing XA50-series RAV4 was introduced in South Africa in March 2019 and currently features six derivatives, including a flagship PHEV variant (not actively promoted by Toyota SA). Prices range from R712,700 to R989,800.

With the 2026 model, Toyota could regain lost ground in South Africa’s fiercely competitive midsize SUV market — especially if the full HEV and PHEV line-up lands locally.

Conclusion: The RAV4 Evolves, and South Africa Is Watching

The upcoming 6th-gen Toyota RAV4 promises a stylish, performance-oriented, and tech-packed evolution of the brand’s best-selling SUV. Whether you’re a fan of urban comfort, off-road adventure, or GR-inspired thrills, the new RAV4 range looks set to deliver something for everyone.

All eyes are now on Toyota SA Motors to confirm exact trims, specs, and pricing closer to the 2026 release.