The new generation of Toyota RAV4: evolution on the outside, revolution in the cabin, only hybrid

A car that has always been popular – 15 million units sold in 30 years – has entered its sixth generation: we meet a new crossover Toyota RAV 4! What did it come with?

More confidence on the outside, more (or less?) power under the hood

The already past fifth generation Toyota RAV 4 radically abandoned smooth, flowing forms in favor of straight lines and sharp corners. And the new crossover continues this trend: it retains the overall proportions of the 4.6-meter body and 2.69-meter wheelbase, retains the trapezoidal wheel arch overlays and the familiar roof line.

But at the same time, the car has changed in detail. The first to catch your eye are the C-shaped headlights and the radiator grille, which is not a separate feature, but rather appears to protrude through the front bumper in the form of cut-out holes. Then the eye stops at the enlarged window in the rear roof pillar and the elongated lights, between which the model name is indicated. Finally, of course, not only the front bumper with an integrated grille has changed, but also a completely new rear bumper has appeared.

Simultaneously with the debut of the basic version of the Toyota RAV 4, the Toyota RAV 4 GR Sport variant was also introduced . Distinctive features are expected: its own front bumper with a separate radiator grille, original rear bumper, black and silver 20-inch wheels. Thankfully, everything is not limited to external changes: the Toyota RAV 4 GR Sport crossover also receives original shock absorbers, its own suspension and power steering settings.

All this should contribute to a more exciting driving experience – because now the most powerful and dynamic version of the Toyota RAV 4 should gain “hundreds” in 6.1 seconds! This is the figure for a PHEV hybrid with all-wheel drive, which has a total power of 304 hp and a new, 30% larger battery – thanks to a capacity of 22.7 kW h, the Toyota RAV4 PHEV crossover should cover about 100 km on electric power. In addition, battery charging capabilities have been improved and a new PHEV hybrid version has been added – with front-wheel drive and a total power of 268 hp.

Although it is certain that the bulk of sales for the Toyota RAV 4 will be provided by traditional hybrids: for Europe, a version with a 2.5-liter gasoline engine combined with electric motors, front- or all-wheel drive and a power of 183 or 191 hp is available. respectively. Versions with conventional engines have not been announced yet, but their appearance in the future cannot be ruled out; okay, let's move on...

But wait! So the current Toyota RAV 4 crossover has hybrids that produce more power! How did it happen that with the change of generations and the launch of new hybrid technology, the power decreased instead of the expected increase? Especially since much better indicators are declared for the American versions of the Toyota RAV 4: a regular hybrid with front-wheel drive offers 229 hp, a hybrid with all-wheel drive produces 239 hp, and the most powerful all-wheel drive PHEV hybrid promises 324 hp.

A revolution in the cabin: two large displays and rectangles everywhere

If from the outside the new generation of Toyota RAV 4 has become an evolution of its predecessor, then inside the cabin it seems like a mini-revolution has taken place. First, pay attention to the 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, which is now a separate element and devoid of the usual visor. Secondly, take a look at the huge 12.9-inch display of the multimedia system, which has incorporated almost all the controls for additional functions – yes, and climate control too. In fact, under the display there are only a few buttons for changing the temperature and the audio volume control.

Even lower there is a double niche for phones and an additional shelf for small items. On the right and left are the driving mode switches, the camera activation button, etc. Finally, I would like to note the steering wheel with a huge almost rectangle in the center and a miniature transmission control joystick, which is mounted on a massive center console, as if on that podium. The sports version of the Toyota RAV 4 GR Sport is expectedly distinguished by logos on the steering wheel and headrests, as well as red stitching and its own seat trim.

The new generation of the Toyota RAV 4 is now making its first public debut. It will then be launched in key markets such as Japan and the US, where sales of the Toyota RAV 4 are expected to begin in late 2025. The next step will be the start of sales in Europe, which is expected to take place in early 2026.

Finally, after this, the new generation of Toyota RAV 4 will appear in Ukraine - so, approximately in a year. However, we can already assume (even with great confidence) that the new car will become very popular again. Why? Simply because it is a Toyota RAV 4.