Toyota has teased the next-generation 2026 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, revealing clear updates from today’s model. Here are key differences in the sixth-gen model, which will be revealed on May 20. Note that we’ve used the teasers from the European and American press portals to draw conclusions, and a detailed comparison will follow when the U.S.-spec model is revealed next week.
1. Digital Cockpit
The 2026 RAV4 teaser shows a dual-screen cockpit setup. It has a wide digital instrument panel, which appears to be customizable with widgets. The standalone infotainment touchscreen is new, and looks slightly larger than today’s unit, and should support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The revised HMI should offer more functionality, clearer navigation, and advanced vehicle controls/data.
2. Revised Steering Wheel
While it retains its round shape, the steering wheel now features a sharper, more angular horn pad design, moving away from the rounder center shape. While it is not the same unit as the one used in the bZ4X, the three-spoke steering wheel features a similar squared-off center and redesigned control buttons, suggesting better ergonomics and a cleaner appearance.
3. ‘Premium’ Dashboard Layout
The dashboard design is noticeably simplified and sleek. The teaser shows a continuous, horizontal layout, which enhances cabin space perception. Today’s RAV4 dashboard is segmented and bulkier. The teaser also hints at improved materials, a blend of lighter colors, including textured surfaces, giving the cabin a more premium feel compared to today’s mostly hard plastics.
4. Sleek Center Console & Gear Selector
The center console is modernized significantly in the teaser. Toyota has moved away from today’s traditional gear shifter, adopting a smaller, streamlined design that resembles an electric shaver. Cupholders and storage compartments are laid out in the parallel row, creating a less cluttered feel compared to today’s layout. The brushed aluminum finish on leading edge of the arm rest is a nice touch.
5. New Seat & Upholstery
The teaser also confirms that the RAV4 will receive new bucket seats. It suggests better quality materials for seats, hinting at enhanced comfort and a premium feel. While today’s RAV4 uses standard fabric or leatherette upholstery, the 2026 model likely introduces new textures and softer materials, suggesting higher-grade upholstery with improved stitching and trim details.
6. New Door Cards
Here again, Toyota designers have opted for a cleaner layout with a two-tone color scheme. The door armrest is revised, and the power window switches appear to be located higher than in the current model.
Also See: Next-gen 2026 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid & Plug-in Hybrid: What to Expect
The 2026 RAV4 is expected to ride on an evolution of today’s TNGA-K platform. From global media reports, we’re also led to believe that the 2.5L engine will be retained in the hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants, with revisions for efficiency and refinement. We should learn more in the coming days.
Featured image: Toyota
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
