Toyota’s RAV4 has long been a dominant force in the SUV market, consistently ranking among the best-selling vehicles in the US. In 2024, it achieved record sales, particularly with its hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, signaling a strong consumer shift towards electrification. Now, Toyota is poised to take its electrification strategy a step further with the introduction of a fully electric Toyota RAV4, expanding its ‘multi-pathway’ approach to cater to diverse consumer needs.
While many automakers are pivoting solely to electric vehicles, Toyota is strategically offering a range of powertrain options for the new RAV4. This includes updated hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions, alongside the highly anticipated battery electric vehicle (BEV) model. For the hybrid variants, Toyota will employ a new, more powerful 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, replacing the 2.0-liter used in some markets. The plug-in hybrid is expected to deliver around 300 horsepower and offer a substantial electric-only range of approximately 70 miles. However, it’s the all-electric RAV4 that is generating significant buzz, with Toyota aiming for a range exceeding 300 miles, according to reports from Japan’s Best Car magazine.
All-Electric RAV4 Powertrain and Drivetrain
The new RAV4 Electric marks a significant milestone as Toyota’s first foray into a fully electric powertrain for a mass-production model. Details about the electric powertrain are still emerging, but it’s expected to feature a dual-motor setup, providing all-wheel drive (AWD) capability with one motor powering each axle. This AWD system will differentiate the BEV from the hybrid models, which will offer front-wheel-drive or Toyota’s E-Four AWD, where an electric motor drives the rear wheels.
GA-K Platform and Design Evolution
Underpinning the next-generation RAV4, including the electric variant, will be Toyota’s new ‘multi-pathway’ GA-K platform. This platform, already utilized in the new Crown and Camry, is being further refined to accommodate the specific requirements of both hybrid and battery electric powertrains. This adaptable platform signifies Toyota’s commitment to a flexible electrification strategy, capable of supporting various levels of vehicle electrification.
Design-wise, the new RAV4 is anticipated to retain its familiar silhouette and proportions, ensuring it remains recognizable as a RAV4. However, it’s expected to incorporate design cues from recent Toyota models like the Prius and Crown, potentially featuring a ‘hammerhead’ front fascia with a distinctive mesh grille. This evolutionary design approach aims to modernize the RAV4’s appearance while preserving its popular and practical SUV form factor.
Anticipated Launch and Pricing
The all-new Toyota RAV4, including the electric version, is slated for a Fall 2026 debut. While official pricing is yet to be announced, the plug-in hybrid model is expected to start around $43,000, and the battery electric RAV4 is anticipated to begin in the vicinity of $50,000. These price points will position the Toyota Rav4 Electric competitively within the growing electric SUV market, offering consumers a compelling blend of Toyota’s renowned reliability and the benefits of electric vehicle technology. As the launch date approaches, more details about the Toyota RAV4 Electric, including its final specifications and features, will undoubtedly emerge, solidifying its position as a key player in the electric SUV landscape.
