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Toyota of Katy blogs regarding new vehicles
The 2026 Toyota RAV4: Fully Electrified SUV Power, Performance, and Features
Choosing your next SUV is a big decision, and with so many new models hitting the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we’re excited to share everything you need to know about the 2026 Toyota RAV4, a vehicle that’s redefining what drivers in Katy, Brookshire, and Richmond can expect from a compact SUV.
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 is now fully electrified, offering hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains only, up to 320 horsepower, 50 miles of electric range, advanced Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, three unique design styles, and cutting-edge tech like over-the-air updates.
At Toyota of Katy, we’ve been serving drivers across Texas for decades, helping families and professionals find vehicles that deliver both reliability and innovation. With the all-new RAV4, we’re bringing you trusted Toyota dependability alongside bold performance upgrades, advanced safety, and eco-friendly efficiency.
In this guide, we’ll cover what’s new, power and performance, interior upgrades, safety technology, design options, pricing, and availability— so you can decide if the 2026 RAV4 is the right fit for your lifestyle here in Katy or beyond.
Summary: 2026 Toyota RAV4
- The 2026 Toyota RAV4 is fully electrified—available only as a hybrid or plug-in hybrid, with more power and better efficiency than ever before.
- Cutting-edge features set it apart, including Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, Arene software with over-the-air updates, and a fully digital cockpit.
- Local availability is coming soon to Toyota of Katy, making it easy for drivers in Katy, Brookshire, Rosenberg, Richmond, Hockley, and Waller to experience the new RAV4 firsthand.
What’s New with the 2026 Toyota RAV4?
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 ushers in its sixth generation with a bold shift: it’s now offered only as a hybrid or plug-in hybrid. This move reflects Toyota’s long-term strategy of building efficient, powerful vehicles that cut fuel use without cutting performance. For drivers across Katy and Rosenberg, that means modern efficiency in a familiar and trusted SUV.
2026 Toyota RAV4 Highlights at a Glance
Choosing the right SUV is easier when you can see the upgrades side by side. Below, we’ve broken down the most important features of the 2026 Toyota RAV4 along with expert dealership notes to give you practical insights for life in Katy and beyond.
2026 Toyota RAV4: Easy Reference Guide:
| Category | 2026 Toyota RAV4 Highlights | Dealership Notes |
| Powertrains | Hybrid (226–236 hp) and Plug-in Hybrid (up to 320 hp). Gas-only models discontinued. | Drivers in Katy and nearby areas will appreciate lower fuel costs without sacrificing power. The plug-in hybrid’s 50-mile EV range is ideal for local commutes. |
| GR Sport Trim | Performance model with GR-tuned suspension, 320 hp, and 20-inch wheels. | A true standout in the lineup— perfect for buyers who want sportscar-like handling in an SUV. We expect this trim to draw enthusiasts who might not have considered a RAV4 before. |
| Design Options | Three styles: Core (sophisticated), Sport (athletic), Woodland (rugged). | Whether you’re headed into Houston traffic or out toward Waller’s trails, there’s a RAV4 personality to match. Woodland is especially popular in Texas for its outdoor-ready features. |
| Technology | Arene platform with over-the-air updates, customizable digital cockpit, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto. | The ability to update software at home is a game-changer. No more waiting for service visits to get the latest features— it’s future-proofed. |
| Safety | First Toyota with Safety Sense 4.0, including Front Cross-Traffic Alert and Advanced Park. | This is Toyota’s safest RAV4 ever. Advanced Park is especially useful in busy Katy shopping centers and Houston parking garages. |
| Towing | Up to 3,500 lbs (most trims); 1,750 lbs on base models. | That’s enough to tow a small camper or boat for weekends at Lake Livingston or Galveston— something competitors like the CR-V can’t match. |
| Interior | Digital cockpit with 12.3-inch cluster, 10.5- or 12.9-inch touchscreen, upgraded materials. | Spacious, tech-forward, and quiet inside— exactly what Texas drivers want for long commutes on I-10. |
| Efficiency | Hybrid: ~39 mpg combined; PHEV: up to 50 miles EV-only + over 50 mpg hybrid mode. | Huge benefit for drivers in Rosenberg and Richmond facing daily highway miles. Expect real-world savings over older gas-only SUVs. |
| Pricing | Estimated from $34,000 (LE Hybrid) to $50,000+ (GR Sport). | Pricing is competitive given the tech upgrades. We recommend considering total cost of ownership— fuel and maintenance savings make this RAV4 a smart buy long-term. |
While the table shows the big changes, there are a few more points worth highlighting. The 2026 RAV4 is Toyota’s first step into software-defined vehicles, which means your SUV will continue to improve over time with new features—something unheard of just a few years ago.
Buyers in Texas will also notice how the new hybrid systems reduce brake wear thanks to regenerative braking, cutting down on maintenance costs. And finally, with three distinct personalities— Core, Sport, and Woodland— the RAV4 isn’t just one SUV anymore; it’s a lineup that adapts to the way you live, whether that’s city commutes, performance driving, or weekend adventures.
2026 Toyota RAV4 Performance and Powertrains
The new RAV4 introduces Toyota’s fifth- and sixth-generation hybrid systems, bringing quicker acceleration and more responsive handling. Plug-in hybrid models deliver up to 320 horsepower, making them the most powerful RAV4s ever built.
Drivers will also benefit from a larger battery and improved charging options, including DC fast charging on select trims. Whether you’re navigating Richmond traffic or heading toward the open roads near Brookshire, this RAV4 balances strength with sustainability.
Interior Features and Comfort Upgrades
Inside, the 2026 RAV4 transforms daily driving with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a larger available 12.9-inch touchscreen for seamless control. Enhanced materials and noise reduction make the cabin quieter, while smart storage updates add convenience.
A redesigned center console with shift-by-wire controls adds a modern touch while freeing up more space. Families in Waller or Hockley will especially appreciate the spacious layout that feels both high-tech and comfortable.
Advanced Safety in the 2026 Toyota RAV4
This is the first Toyota model equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, the most advanced suite yet. New features like Front Cross-Traffic Alert and Advanced Lane Change Assist bring peace of mind on busy I-10 commutes.
Drivers also gain from Proactive Driving Assist and an upgraded Lane Departure Alert, which make long trips more relaxed. Combined with improved collision detection, the 2026 RAV4 makes safety smarter and more intuitive than ever.
Exterior Design and Style Options
The RAV4 continues to showcase a rugged SUV stance while adopting Toyota’s hammerhead front-end design and sharp LED lighting. Buyers can choose from Core, Sport, and Woodland personalities, each giving the SUV a distinct character. From urban streets in Richmond to outdoor trails beyond Brookshire, the RAV4’s look adapts to every lifestyle.
2026 Toyota RAV4 Price and Availability in Katy, TX
Pricing for the 2026 RAV4 is expected to start around $34,000, with higher trims like the GR Sport exceeding $50,000. Industry forecasts point to arrivals in early 2026, with Woodland models possibly following later. For buyers around Katy and Rosenberg, this means planning ahead for one of the most anticipated SUV launches in Texas.
A Final Word on the 2026 Toyota RAV4
Now that you know what makes the 2026 Toyota RAV4 such a game-changer, the next step is simple: experience it for yourself. This SUV isn’t just about electrification. It’s about blending power, technology, and everyday usability in ways that make sense for Texas drivers.
At Toyota of Katy, we’re here to help you find the RAV4 that matches your needs, whether you’re commuting down I-10, towing out to the lake, or taking the family across Texas. Stop by our showroom at 21555 Katy Fwy, Katy, TX 77450, or give us a call at 844.809.1063 to set up your test drive today. The 2026 RAV4 is almost here—be among the first in Katy, Brookshire, Rosenberg, Richmond, Hockley, or Waller to get behind the wheel.
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