The compact SUV segment has been dominated for years by recognizable names, but in 2026 the battle for supremacy may finally be tightening. Toyota’s latest RAV4 update brings a suite of refinements that could give it a real edge over the Honda CR-V, long considered the benchmark for practicality, reliability, and overall value in this crowded category. As both models evolve, buyers now have more to consider than ever before.
Toyota’s newest RAV4 combines thoughtful improvements in efficiency, comfort, and technology with a well-rounded driving experience that feels confident in daily use and on longer trips alike. Enhanced powertrain tuning, updated interior features, and smarter safety systems all contribute to a package that feels more polished than past iterations. Compared to the CR-V, which continues to excel in consistency and ownership costs, the RAV4’s changes may finally tip the scales for drivers who prioritize a modern, engaging crossover.
In this article, we explore why the 2026 RAV4 might outshine its long-time rival, breaking down improvements in performance, features, and overall value. For buyers weighing their compact SUV options, it could be the year the RAV4 takes the lead.
In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including the EPA.
Why I would pick this Korean hybrid SUV over a Toyota RAV4
It’s more affordable, delivers excellent fuel economy, and offers a smoother, quieter ride than the popular RAV4 Hybrid.
The new Toyota RAV4 starts much cheaper than the Honda CR-V Hybrid
The wait is finally over and the updated 2026 Toyota RAV4 is here. This new generation of Toyota’s compact SUV is different in a lot of ways, with the key factor being that it is a hybrid-only affair. Compared to the old gas-powered RAV4, the new model starts a little expensive, but does start a little cheaper than the old hybrid model. Where it is also the more affordable option is when it is compared to its core rival, the Honda CR-V Hybrid.
2026 Toyota RAV4 trims and pricing
|
Model |
Starting MSRP |
|---|---|
|
LE |
$31,900 |
|
SE |
$34,700 |
|
XLE Premium |
$36,100 |
|
Woodland |
$39,900 |
|
XSE |
$41,300 |
|
Limited |
$43,300 |
Yes, we’re aware that the RAV4 has been beating the CR-V in sales. However, we think that despite this, the CR-V has consistently been the better, more refined vehicle. Toyota may have never been behind in terms of units moved through the door, but Honda has definitely delivered the better SUV. The 2026 RAV4 changes that.
The changes to the RAV4 have been pretty comprehensive, with it sporting new exterior styling, an updated cabin, and revised tech offerings. The plug-in hybrid model is on its way, but for right now we only have access to the traditional hybrid setup. These models start at just over the $30,000 mark, which means they undercut Toyota’s closest rival. The Honda CR-V may start at $30,920, but hybrid models start at $35,630.
We don’t think that you have to climb the trim ladder all that far to find the best value model either. The SE is definitely the way to go for most buyers, offering some desirable equipment upgrades without inflating the price too drastically. It comes with niceties like heated front seats, blind-spot monitoring, and black 18-inch wheels.
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Toyota’s RAV4 is shaping up to be the more efficient options
One of the biggest factors in the hybrid compact SUV segment is efficiency. Previously, the Honda CR-V was the slightly more efficient option in most scenarios, but that looks like it might change. While the EPA has yet to put the 2026 model year of the RAV4 through its paces, Toyota’s estimates put it leaps and strides ahead of Honda.
Fuel economy
|
Model |
City |
Highway |
|---|---|---|
|
FWD |
47 MPG |
40 MPG |
|
AWD |
43 MPG |
37 MPG |
|
AWD Woodland |
41 MPG |
35 MPG |
We want to reiterate that the above figures are Toyota’s estimates, and that the real world figures could definitely be lower. However, if they are accurate, or even close to accurate, the new RAV4 should be substantially more efficient than the Honda CR-V Hybrid.
Front-wheel drive CR-V Hybrids are rated for 43 miles per gallon in the city and 36 miles per gallon on the highway. All-wheel drive models are rated for 40 miles per gallon in the city and 34 miles per gallon on the highway. This means that the new RAV4 should deliver around four extra miles per gallon in most scenarios.
2026 Toyota RAV4 performance
|
Engine |
2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four (hybrid) |
|---|---|
|
Transmission |
CVT |
|
Horsepower |
226-236 HP |
|
Torque |
172 LB-FT |
|
Driveline |
FWD or AWD |
|
0-60 MPH |
7.1 seconds |
|
Top speed |
112 MPH |
|
Max towing |
3,500 LBS |
The standard 2026 RAV4 comes with front-wheel drive. This setup includes a four-pot and two electric motors making 226 horsepower. All-wheel drive is optional across the board, with a third electric motor being added to the rear axle, increasing output to 236 horsepower. Every model comes equipped with a continuously variable transmission.
For 2026, the RAV4 takes on a very similar attitude to the outgoing model. It is a jack-of-all-trades but a master of none. It offers competent handling, perky acceleration, and a reasonably comfortable ride quality. Our main gripe is that there have been a lot of reports that the gas engine can be a little uncouth at high speeds, making quite a lot of noise.
We’re excited to see what the upcoming plug-in hybrid model can do. In particular, we’re excited about the GR Sport model, which comes with adjustments to the suspension and steering system to make it feel more responsive and engaging.
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On the inside, it is more contemporary without losing its utilitarian touch
Toyota’s whole shtick is simplicity. They build cars for people who don’t want flashy gimmicks or systems that are difficult to use. This is becoming harder and harder to achieve in the modern age. However, we think that they have done a good job at upgrading the interior of the new RAV4 with new tech without compromising the user-friendly setup.
Interior dimensions and comfort
|
Front row headroom |
37.9 inches |
|---|---|
|
Front row legroom |
41 inches |
|
Second row headroom |
39.5 inches |
|
Second row legroom |
37.8 inches |
|
Cargo capacity (behind second row) |
37.8 cubic feet |
In terms of space for passengers, the competition between the RAV4 and the CR-V Hybrid is pretty close. Both offer plenty of room in both rows of seats, with their interior dimensions being super close to one another. The CR-V does have slightly more spacious rear seats, though. Where the Toyota does regain the advantage is cargo capacity, with the Honda delivering 36.3 cubic feet of space.
We really like the way in which Toyota has gone about updating the interior of the RAV4. They have kept the blocky theme throughout, which plays into its identity as a little adventure vehicle. Practicality is a big concern here, with lots of storage space in the form of cubbies. Toyota offers a nice list of standard comfort features, including things like automatic dual-zone climate control. Top trims come with things like faux-leather upholstery, a panoramic glass roof, and a foot-activated power liftgate.
Infotainment and technology
Another place where the RAV4 has seen some pretty big upgrades is in the tech department. A 10.5-inch infotainment screen is standard kit, rising above the center of the dashboard. Also standard is a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. Some models, however, come equipped with a 12.9-inch infotainment screen. Both systems offer wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Bluetooth is standard, and the RAV4 can support you connecting up to two devices at once. There are plenty of USB-C ports in the cabin, but higher trim levels also get a wireless smartphone charging pad. The base sound system is pretty dull, but the optional nine-speaker JBL system does kick things up a notch.
