- A complete redesign means the all-new sixth generation RAV4 offers a bold new aesthetic for 2026
- Joint cutting edge safety, entertainment and driver information technology provide a complete automotive experience
Dubai, UAE – February, 2026: Al-Futtaim Toyota has launched the all-new 2026 RAV4 in the United Arab Emirates, marking a new chapter for the globally acclaimed lifestyle SUV. Since its introduction to the competitive UAE SUV market in 1996, the RAV4 has been a cornerstone of the nation’s automotive landscape. The 2026 model honours this 30-year legacy, while pivoting toward a future of intelligence and electrification.
In the UAE, the RAV4 has long occupied an important niche as a versatile SUV that bridges the gap between urban daily drivers and weekend adventurers, while making an important sustainability statement with its hybrid technology.
“The exciting new Toyota RAV4 has been created under the concept of ‘Life is an Adventure’, which is ideal for the UAE market,” says Jacques Brent, Managing Director of Al-Futtaim Toyota. “It remains a reliable SUV with broad appeal, while appealing to a new generation of forward-thinking drivers who will enjoy the on- and off-road capabilities and the hybrid engine’s low-emissions benefits.”
The RAV4, an acronym for “Robust Accurate Vehicle with 4-wheel drive”, was first introduced in Japan in 1994 and is widely credited with establishing the compact crossover SUV segment. The model combined passenger-car driving characteristics with the elevated ride height and available all-wheel-drive capability of an SUV, helping to expand the appeal of the category globally. The sixth-generation RAV4 is built on Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, which underpins multiple models in the brand’s portfolio and is designed to enhance structural rigidity, driving stability and overall efficiency across urban and off-road environments.
Powered by efficiency and sustainability:
The 2026 RAV4 is available with two powertrain options: a 236hp 2.5-litre hybrid electric system (HEV) and a 169hp 2.0-litre petrol engine. The new 2.0-litre engine delivers a claimed fuel economy of 17 km/l, compared to 14.9 km/l for the previous 2.5-litre petrol variant, representing a 14.1% improvement. The fifth-generation hybrid system achieves 24.8 km/l, up from 22.2 km/l in the previous generation, marking an 11.7% efficiency increase. Both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations are available in the UAE market.
In addition, the RAV4 range will include a plug-in hybrid option, the first of its kind from Toyota in the UAE. More information will be shared closer to launch.
Technology, comfort and safety for drivers and passengers:
Inside, the RAV4 undergoes a digital transformation with a 12.9-inch display audio system – a first for Toyota in the UAE – taking centre stage features 4x faster processing and built-in navigation, complemented by a 12.3-inch multi-information display. This is combined with a cabin redesign that focuses on unified intelligence, featuring shift-by-wire technology, and a panoramic view monitor. Connectivity remains a priority with integrated Apple CarPlay and a high-speed multimedia interface that keeps all passengers connected.
With generous cargo space and enhanced legroom, five adults can travel in comfort. From the panoramic sunroof that opens the cabin to the sky, every detail of the all-new RAV4 has been engineered with the users in mind. For added convenience, the 2026 model introduces Intelligent Parking Assist, so urban manoeuvres are effortless a first for Toyota UAE.
The 2026 RAV4 is the first Toyota model to be equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 4, the latest suite of active safety technologies. This package introduces Road Sign Assist functionality to the UAE market for the first time. Combined with Lane Trace Assist, Pre-Collision System, Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Monitoring, the RAV4 ensures that adventures are backed by world-class protection.
A new design direction:
The sixth-generation 2026 RAV4 introduces a revised exterior design that blends SUV proportions with a more contemporary urban profile. In the UAE, the model will be offered across low- and mid-grade variants, EX, EXR and GXR, positioned for everyday use with a focus on comfort, practicality and value. The Adventure grade features more rugged exterior styling, including unique bumpers and bridge-type roof rails, while the high-grade VXR adopts a sportier design direction, with 20-inch black alloy wheels and a two-tone exterior finish.
“The TNGA engineers have worked hand in glove with interior and exterior designers to create a thrilling new compact SUV that doesn’t compromise on power, performance, comfort, safety, sustainability or style,” says Mr Brent. “The 2026 RAV4 is poised to remain the UAE’s go-to SUV for those seeking an active and sustainable lifestyle.”
