KATHMANDU: Toyota has officially announced that all upcoming RAV4 models will be offered exclusively as hybrids. This marks the end of gasoline-only variants for one of the world’s best-selling SUVs.
With the global debut of the sixth-generation 2026 RAV4, Toyota confirmed that the popular model will now be available only as a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). The decision reflects Toyota’s commitment to hybrid technology amid a global slowdown in the adoption of fully electric vehicles.
The new RAV4 will be powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with electric motors. The HEV version produces 226 horsepower in front-wheel drive and 236 hp with all-wheel drive. The PHEV variant, available exclusively with AWD, delivers 320 hp and an electric-only range of up to 80 km. Select trims, such as the XSE and Woodland, support DC fast charging via a CCS port, enabling a 10–80% charge in about 30 minutes.
Since launching the Prius in the late 1990s, Toyota has led the hybrid segment. With the 2026 RAV4, Toyota now has eight models offered solely as hybrids, including the Camry, Prius, Sienna and Sequoia.
With the 2026 RAV4, Toyota now has eight models offered solely as hybrids, including the Camry, Prius, Sienna and Sequoia.
The sixth-generation RAV4 features a redesigned exterior, including C-shaped LED headlamps, a body-colored grille, trapezoidal wheel arches and a rugged rear skid plate. Depending on the variant, it comes with 17- to 20-inch alloy wheels and is offered in three styling categories: Core (LE, XLE, Limited), Sport (SE, XSE, GR Sport), and Rugged, which includes the new Woodland trim.
Inside, the RAV4 features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.9-inch infotainment screen, digital climate controls and an optional nine-speaker JBL audio system. A heads-up display further enhances the high-tech driving experience.
A major innovation is the introduction of Toyota’s new Arena software platform, debuting in the RAV4. This marks the Japanese automaker’s first step toward software-defined vehicles.
The 2026 RAV4 is expected to be rolled out to over 180 countries and regions later this year.
It is not clear when United Traders Syndicate, Toyota’s authorized distributor in Nepal, will launch the car in the domestic market.
