Toyota New Zealand has revealed pricing for the 2026 RAV4 range, with the sixth-generation model introducing a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain and an all-new GR SPORT grade when it arrives in the first half of the year.
The expanded lineup will span from $49,990 for the entry-level GX hybrid with front-wheel drive to $66,990 for the flagship GR SPORT PHEV with all-wheel drive.
Toyota New Zealand Chief Strategic Officer Andrew Davis says the RAV4 continues to set the benchmark for New Zealand drivers, combining reliability and value with an expanded range that caters to different lifestyles.
“With the popularity of RAV4 we have expanded the lineup even further so it has basically become a brand of its own with a grade for every Kiwi driver, from our core everyday customers to adventurous types and driving enthusiasts,” Davis says.
PHEV powertrain joins the range
The introduction of a PHEV variant marks a significant step in Toyota’s electrification strategy for New Zealand. Davis says the RAV4 PHEV adds a functional electric vehicle capability to the range while maintaining the flexibility of hybrid operation for longer journeys.
“The RAV4 PHEV adds a new dimension and is built for the Kiwi way of life and the access to charging infrastructure that we have here in NZ,” he says.
The PHEV system combines a 2.5-litre hybrid engine with a 22.7kWh lithium-ion battery and front and rear electric motors. In GXL PHEV configuration, it produces 201kW total system output, while the GR SPORT PHEV delivers 227kW.
Davis says many PHEV customers could travel over 1000km using a blend of electric and hybrid driving, potentially reducing visits to petrol stations significantly.
Three distinct styles
The 2026 RAV4 will be offered in three styles: Core, Adventure and GR SPORT. Each targets different customer needs, from everyday driving to outdoor recreation and performance-focused applications.
The Core range includes GX, GXL, XSE and Limited grades, available in various combinations of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive with hybrid or PHEV powertrains. Adventure models focus on outdoor capability with AWD hybrid power, while GR SPORT combines AWD PHEV performance with motorsport-inspired enhancements.
All models feature the latest Toyota Safety Sense as standard, including an Emergency Driving Stop System that can safely slow and stop the vehicle if the driver becomes unresponsive.
Complete pricing structure
The hybrid range starts with the GX at $49,990 for front-wheel drive and $52,990 for all-wheel drive. GXL models are priced at $52,990 (FWD) and $55,990 (AWD), while the Limited hybrid with AWD costs $63,990.
The Adventure hybrid with AWD is positioned at $60,990, featuring rugged styling and outdoor-focused equipment.
PHEV models begin with the GXL at $57,990 for front-wheel drive, stepping up to the XSE at $61,990 with all-wheel drive. The range-topping GR SPORT PHEV is priced at $66,990.
GR SPORT flagship
The new GR SPORT represents the most powerful RAV4 to date, with 227kW system output from its PHEV AWD powertrain. Toyota invested an additional 70,000 hours of engineering development into the model, which features performance-focused suspension tuning and lighter 20-inch wheels.
“RAV4 GR SPORT combines the best of both worlds with a focus on driving performance,” Davis says. “It’s practical, has the fuel efficiency benefits of a plug-in hybrid SUV and then adds a driving set up that is designed to put a smile on your face.”
The GR SPORT includes unique styling elements, sports pedals, GR-branded interior trim and red brake calipers with the GR logo.
All PHEV grades include a 1500-watt power outlet capable of running small appliances, while the range will also debut Toyota’s Connected Services linking to a new myToyota app for remote vehicle monitoring and control.
The 2026 RAV4 range will arrive in New Zealand showrooms in the first half of the year.
