Toyota’s most popular SUV is getting a plug, and it’s heading down under.
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) has officially been confirmed for Australia, with the sixth-generation model due to hit local showrooms in the first half of next year. This marks a major turning point for the brand as it prepares to launch its first-ever plug-in hybrid in Australia.
▶️MORE: Every Plug-in Hybrid EV (PHEV) Available in Australia (2025)
A Game-Changer for Toyota’s Hybrid Strategy
Until now, Toyota’s hybrid lineup has been limited to parallel hybrids—no plugs, no pure electric driving. That’s about to change. The arrival of the RAV4 PHEV gives the brand its first local entry into plug-in territory, following years of growing demand and tighter emissions expectations.
“This is a significant milestone,” said Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia’s vice president for sales and marketing. “We’re moving into a more diversified powertrain landscape and plug-in hybrids are a critical part of that shift.”
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Hybrid-Only, Now with a Plug
The current RAV4 lineup switched to hybrid-only in mid-2024. Now, the plug-in version will join the range alongside the existing hybrid variants. While Toyota hasn’t confirmed which trim levels will offer the PHEV powertrain, a new GR Sport flagship is expected to headline the range.
Pricing remains under wraps, but Toyota has previously hinted that plug-in tech would be introduced once the price gap between petrol and PHEV models became more reasonable.
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PHEV Powertrain Key Specs
| Component | Specification |
| Engine | 2.5L petrol four-cylinder |
| Battery | 22.7kWh lithium-ion |
| Electric Motor | 150kW |
| Range (Electric-Only) | 100km (WLTP) |
| Charging (DC) | 50kW onboard charger (10–80% in 30 min) |
| Charging (AC) | 11kW onboard charger (full charge in 3 hrs) |
The plug-in hybrid will be available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. Power output differs slightly depending on the variant:
- AWD: 227kW combined
- FWD: 210kW combined
▶️MORE: Electric Car Incentives in Australia: State by State Guide
Smart Driving with Geofencing
Toyota is adding intelligent features to help drivers make the most of electric-only mode. The new RAV4 PHEV will use geofencing to detect when it's in urban or low-emission zones, automatically switching to electric mode when appropriate. That’s a smart way to cut tailpipe emissions without driver input.
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