2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid

The Toyota RAV4 is all-new for 2026, and as Toyota's best-selling vehicle, expectations are high. This time around, the lineup is all hybrid, and the Plug-in Hybrid model we review here is the top dog. As a small crossover SUV, the RAV4 fills the gap between the even smaller Corolla Cross and the midsize three-row Highlander. We think the new RAV4 is one of the best small SUVs on sale for 2026 thanks to its roomy interior and sensible design, and the Plug-in Hybrid version adds on the ability to charge up the hybrid battery at home and drive up to an EPA-estimated 52 miles using just electricity.

The main advantage that the Plug-in Hybrid has over the regular RAV4 — which comes standard with a hybrid powertrain for 2026 — is its ability to operate like an electric vehicle. Charge up the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid's battery and you can drive around just using the vehicle's electric motors and battery. Once the battery gets depleted, the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid switches on its gas engine and operates like a typical hybrid. You can definitely save on gas if you make many short trips and regularly charge the Plug-in Hybrid at home. But it's wise to run the numbers because the Plug-in Hybrid is considerably more expensive to purchase than a regular RAV4.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid's most direct rivals are the plug-in hybrid versions of the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage. They're less expensive than the RAV4, but their electric-only range is limited to 32 miles and 33 miles, respectively. The RAV4 also gets better mpg once its battery is depleted, which could end up saving you money in the long run, and is more powerful.