In 2026, a new top-of-the-line version of the Toyota RAV4, the GR Sport, will be released in the US market. This is the first time that the "sports" modification of the RAV4 truly lives up to its name. Under the hood is a 324-horsepower hybrid setup, all-wheel drive, and acceleration to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds.
The GR Sport is equipped with a 2.5-liter gasoline engine and two electric motors. The front axle is driven through an e-CVT, and the rear axle is driven only by electric motors. This configuration gives the crossover all-wheel drive without a mechanical connection between the axles. Fuel consumption is up to 6.3 l/100 km, and the electric range reaches 77 km.
The chassis has been significantly redesigned: the GR Sport received reinforced shock absorbers, original springs, and additional body stiffeners. The ground clearance has been reduced by 15 mm. Aerodynamic elements are installed at the front and rear: a splitter, spoiler, and diffuser. All of this is not just decoration, but working aerodynamics. The factory 20-inch wheels are equipped with tires with increased grip.
This is the only version of the new generation RAV4 that will be available only with a plug-in hybrid. In essence, the GR Sport replaces the previous RAV4 Prime and raises the bar: it is more powerful, faster, and handles sharper. This is also thanks to the rigid body, retuned steering rack, and reinforced rear suspension. Sales are scheduled to start at the end of 2025.
The interior has sporty accents: Alcantara and leather seat trim, red stitching, GR emblems on the headrests, steering wheel, and floor mats. The center console is equipped with an unusual lid: it is double-sided and completely removable. One side is for storing things, the other can be used as a rigid stand. The multimedia system is the latest generation with high responsiveness and modern graphics.
The front seats, although they have their own name (Static Elimination Stabilizing Plus D-Seats), are essentially no different from the basic ones in shape. Lateral support could be better. Otherwise, the ergonomics are top-notch: comfortable fit, many physical buttons, clear controls.
The GR Sport accelerates to "hundreds" in 5.6 seconds, which is a second faster than the Civic Si, and on par with the Toyota GR86. Moreover, even with a battery charge of 55–75%. Handling is significantly sharper than other RAV4s, thanks to the wheels, suspension, and chassis tuning.
Toyota has installed a separate steering mode for sporty driving. It improves feedback. The entire chassis is adapted to loads: unique shock absorbers, rear beam, additional body reinforcement. This is not a dummy, like some competitors such as the Chevrolet Tahoe RST, where the "sports" package does not provide either power or handling.
The main disadvantage is the e-CVT transmission: during active driving, it creates a noise typical of variators. This is a controversial solution for a car with the GR logo. But otherwise, the GR Sport is the most driver-oriented version of the RAV4 in the history of the model.
The price has not been announced, but it is estimated to be around $50,000. There are alternatives in this segment: Genesis GV70, BMW X3, Mercedes GLC, Volvo XC60. They are faster, more premium, and more technologically advanced. But none of them offers such fuel efficiency and electric range.
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