The Toyota RAV4 (read a detailed review on our website) has been the brand's most successful model for a decade. This crossover has long been a benchmark among compact SUVs — for its reliability, balance, and practicality. Now, with the release of the sixth generation, the 2026 RAV4 enters a new era: it has fully transitioned to hybrid powertrains, received an updated architecture, improved multimedia systems, and several new versions, including the sporty GR Sport.
The model still offers a choice between a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV). The regular hybrid is available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, while the plug-in is exclusively AWD. Toyota has also emphasized equipment: now even basic versions have received modern Toyota Safety Sense safety systems of the new generation, updated electronics, and a proprietary interface with voice control.
To understand which version of the RAV4 is really worth the money, a Motor1 journalist tested almost the entire model range — from the off-road Woodland to the sporty GR Sport — and chose the optimal option.
RAV4 Woodland is Toyota's attempt to please fans of the "off-road" style. The version features large wheels, orange decorative elements, and roof rails. However, as the test showed, there are few real advantages for off-roading here. Instead of advanced electronics or adaptive suspension — only aggressive design and a noisier ride. Due to the massive tires, the Woodland is less isolated from external sounds, and the suspension comfort is noticeably lower. On the highway, it is louder than other versions, and on bad roads — harsher. Even the multimedia here is simplified: instead of a 12.9-inch display — a 10.9-inch screen. As a result, this option is only suitable for those who really live outside the city or often drive on dirt roads.
RAV4 XSE turned out to be the compromise that people expect from Toyota. It does not pretend to be luxurious, but gives the maximum for a reasonable price. The standard equipment includes a large 12.9-inch screen, pleasant artificial leather and Alcantara seat trim, adaptive cruise control, as well as the ability to choose the type of transmission: hybrid or PHEV, front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. This version combines the optimal balance of dynamics, fuel efficiency and equipment. It looks modern, drives confidently and remains comfortable even on rough roads. In fact, this is the "golden mean" of the new generation.
RAV4 Limited is designed for those who want a little more comfort. The version features a more premium interior: seats with ventilation and heating, heated steering wheel, digital rearview mirror and improved acoustics with nine speakers. Dual wireless charging and decorative inserts in the cabin have also been added. But with all these advantages, the Limited does not feel fundamentally better than the XSE — the behavior on the road and the overall atmosphere are almost the same. Therefore, the overpayment seems excessive, unless you want maximum comfort.
The most interesting is the new sports version RAV4 GR Sport (review on our website). Developed with the participation of the Gazoo Racing division, it received a retuned suspension, more responsive steering and proprietary sports accents in the design. This version drives noticeably tighter and more collected than the others, and, perhaps, delivers the most driving pleasure. However, it is also the most expensive: the cost has not yet been announced, but it is expected that the GR Sport will become the flagship of the line. At the same time, the increase in dynamics is not so great as to justify the possible difference in price. Under normal conditions, this version looks more like an image solution for fans of the brand than a real choice for most buyers.
As a result, after lengthy tests, the journalist came to an unambiguous conclusion: the best version of the RAV4 is the XSE. It combines the key advantages of the entire line — a spacious interior, excellent handling, modern technology and at the same time remains affordable. The XSE offers hybrid and plug-in powertrains, a choice of drive, as well as thoughtful ergonomics with a large display and a comfortable fit.
Woodland is suitable for fans of "off-road" style, Limited is for comfort lovers, GR Sport is for enthusiasts. But for most drivers, the XSE will be the perfect choice — versatile, balanced and Japanese-reliable.
