Al-Futtaim Toyota has unveiled the all-new 2026 RAV4 in the United Arab Emirates, ushering in a fresh era for the globally recognized lifestyle SUV. Since entering the UAE’s competitive SUV segment in 1996, the RAV4 has played a defining role in the country’s automotive market. The latest model celebrates three decades of success while embracing a future shaped by smart technology and electrification.
In the UAE, the RAV4 has consistently stood out as a versatile SUV that seamlessly balances everyday city driving with weekend exploration, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability through advanced hybrid technology.
Commenting on the launch, Jacques Brent, Managing Director of Al-Futtaim Toyota, said
The new RAV4 was developed around the theme “Life is an Adventure,” a concept well suited to the UAE. He noted that the model continues to offer the reliability and widespread appeal it is known for, while attracting a new generation of progressive drivers who value both on- and off-road capability, along with the environmental advantages of hybrid performance.
Originally introduced in Japan in 1994, the RAV4 — short for “Robust Accurate Vehicle with 4-wheel drive”
Is widely regarded as a pioneer of the compact crossover SUV segment. By combining car-like handling with SUV ride height and available all-wheel drive, it broadened the category’s global appeal. The sixth-generation model is built on Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, engineered to enhance rigidity, stability and efficiency across diverse driving conditions.
Efficiency and electrified performance
The 2026 RAV4 is offered with two powertrain options: a 2.5-litre hybrid electric system producing 236hp and a 2.0-litre petrol engine delivering 169hp. The new petrol engine achieves 17 km/l in fuel economy, improving by 14.1% over the previous 2.5-litre petrol variant. Meanwhile, the fifth-generation hybrid system records 24.8 km/l, marking an 11.7% efficiency gain over its predecessor. Customers in the UAE can choose between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations.
The lineup will also expand to include a plug-in hybrid variant — Toyota’s first in the UAE — with further details to be announced closer to its market introduction.
Advanced technology, comfort and safety
Inside, the RAV4 features a significant digital upgrade led by a 12.9-inch display audio system — the first of its kind for Toyota in the UAE — offering four-times faster processing and integrated navigation. This is paired with a 12.3-inch multi-information display. The redesigned cabin emphasizes intelligent integration, incorporating shift-by-wire technology and a panoramic view monitor, while seamless connectivity is ensured through Apple CarPlay and a high-speed multimedia interface.
Designed with practicality in mind, the RAV4 provides generous cargo capacity and enhanced legroom to comfortably accommodate five adults. Features such as the panoramic sunroof and the newly introduced Intelligent Parking Assist — another first for Toyota UAE — further enhance convenience and ease of use in urban settings.
Safety is elevated with the introduction of Toyota Safety Sense 4, making the 2026 RAV4 the first Toyota model to adopt the latest generation of the brand’s active safety suite. This includes Road Sign Assist, introduced to the UAE market for the first time, alongside Lane Trace Assist, Pre-Collision System, Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Monitoring, delivering comprehensive protection for every journey.
A refreshed design identity
The sixth-generation RAV4 adopts a redesigned exterior that blends traditional SUV strength with a modern urban aesthetic. In the UAE, it will be available in EX, EXR and GXR grades, tailored for daily practicality and comfort. The Adventure variant introduces a more rugged appearance with distinctive bumpers and bridge-style roof rails, while the flagship VXR grade features a sportier character, highlighted by 20-inch black alloy wheels and a two-tone exterior finish.
“Brent added that close collaboration between TNGA engineers and design teams resulted in a compact SUV that excels in performance, comfort, safety, sustainability and style. He concluded that the 2026 RAV4 is well positioned to remain the preferred SUV choice in the UAE for customers seeking an active and environmentally conscious lifestyle”.
