Toyota Is Slashing Thousands From Its Most Powerful RAV4 Ever
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324-hp plug-in hybrid now costs over $3k less for 2026, and GR version ducks under $50k
https://www.carscoops.com/author/chris-chilton-cc/
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In a world where everything seems to cost more every week, Toyota has done something unexpected. It cut the price of the brand-new 2026 RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid, and not by pennies, either.
The outgoing, old-shape 2025 RAV4 PHEV SE, which is still listed on Toyota’s retail website, costs $46,265 including destination. The new 2026 SE plug-in kicks off at $41,500, or $42,950 if you factor in the unchanged $1,450 destination charge. That’s a big $3,315 saving; however, since Toyota dropped the non-hybrid model, the starting price of a RAV is now technically $3,105 higher for 2026.
Related: RAV4 Owner Stung By $6,600 Repair For What Dealers Call An Airbox
The new AWD-only RAV4 PHEV now makes 324 hp (329 PS) from its 2.5-liter four-cylinder and electric motor combo, or 22 hp (22 PS) more than before. All-electric range also climbs by 10 miles (16 km) to a claimed 52 miles (84 km) in base SE and mid-spec XSE trims.
Sub-$50k For The GR Sport
The lineup has grown, too. The Woodland trim now joins the plug-in party with a more rugged look, and the new GR Sport sits at the top with a tempting starting price of $49,950. That’s notable because the old XSE plug-in was over $49,000 and far less desirable or interesting to drive.
We recently drove the GR Sport and came away pleasantly surprised. For a tall compact crossover, it actually delivers on the badge. The steering feels sharper, the suspension tuning is tighter, and it doesn’t fall apart when you push it through a corner. No, it isn’t a hot hatch, but it finally feels like more than just a sticker package.
Sporty Charger
But while the GR Sport is the fastest RAV4 down a twisty road, if you want fast charging capability, you’ll need to stick with Woodland or XSE trims. They’re the only ones offering DC fast charging. That’s worth noting if you plan to use that 52-mile EV range regularly and top up quickly out on the road.
Review: Toyota’s 2026 RAV4 GR Sport Doesn’t Play By Hybrid Rules
Toyota also offers a non-PHEV RAV4, and it’s considerably cheaper than the plug-in, costing $33,350 in base front-wheel drive LE trim, or $34,750 with all-wheel drive. The AWD SE Hybrid undercuts its SE PHEV brother by $5,400, but doesn’t have the same kind of electric-only ability and is much less powerful, putting out just 236 hp (239 PS).
*MSRPs exclude a $1,450 destination charge
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