Is This BEST Seller Improved? (Toyota RAV4 2026 Review Australian Preview Drive)

The new-generation Toyota RAV4 is expected to become Australia’s best-selling vehicle when it arrives next year, but is it really better than the car it replaces? With less power and higher prices, this hybrid SUV could be a tough sell — especially with fierce competition from China.

With an all-hybrid line-up and pricey GR Sport PHEV range-topper, the new RAV4 comes in swinging, however, rocking a new operating system, revised interior layout and tough boxy styling. Underneath, the RAV4 uses an upgraded version of the existing car’s underpinnings, with various subtle changes.

Road test editor John Law flies to the Australian Automotive Research Centre for a first touch, feel and drive of Toyota’s new hybrid hero aiming to continue its sales dominance over Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage and all other midsize mainstream SUVs.


Time codes:
0:00 - Intro
0:37 - what’s new?
1:17 - range structure
1:43 - styling
2:23 - dimensions
2:35 - pricing
3:04 - cabin impressions
3:37 - ‘Arene’ OS
4:21 - touch HVAC
5:17 - storage
5:51 - seat comfort
6:17 - spacious back seat
7:00 - daintree green
7:25 - boot
7:46 - hybrid system
8:03 - newer, slower
8:44 - fuel efficiency
9:05 - driving dynamics
9:50 - honest verdict

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