2026 Toyota RAV4 LE – Efficient Hybrid Power [Full Review]

By Henry Watson - Automotive Content Writer

Published: September 7, 2025

Last Updated: September 30, 2025

Meet the all-new 2026 Toyota RAV4 LE. Enjoy impressive efficiency with its standard hybrid system and available AWD. Check out specs, photos, and more

2026

HEV FWD: 226 hp, HEV AWD: 236 hp

Electronically controlled hybrid transaxle (HEV)

Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)

Image of 2026-Toyota-RAV4_Limited_StormCloud_Studio_001

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Car Overview

ModelRAV4

Fuel Type Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)

PowerHEV FWD: 226 hp, HEV AWD: 236 hp

Doors4

TrimLE

Year2026

Drive TypeFWD or AWD

Cylinders4

BodyCompact SUV

TransmissionElectronically controlled hybrid transaxle (HEV)

ConditionNew

ColorMeteor Shower, Everest, Storm Cloud, Ice Cap, Wind Chill Pearl, Midnight Black Metallic, Ruby Flare Pearl, Blueprint

Description

All‑new sixth‑gen compact SUV tuned for everyday America, offered as hybrid or plug‑in hybrid with available front‑ or all‑wheel drive, Core “LE” trim anchors the lineup with the new hammerhead nose, chiseled sides, and practical cargo space, fifth‑gen Toyota hybrid tech boosts output versus last gen, with 226 hp on FWD hybrids and 236 hp on AWD hybrids, while PHEV models reach up to 320 hp, new Arene software platform powers the latest Toyota Audio Multimedia and the debut of Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 for smarter, quicker responses, Core grades ride on 17‑ to 20‑inch wheels depending on spec, while LE focuses on value with essential equipment and the new 12.3‑inch digital cluster standard across the board, towing set at 1,750 lb for LE AWD and all FWD models, with select AWD grades elsewhere rated higher, dimensions around 180.9 in length, 73.0 in width, and 67.0 in height for Core models like LE, on a 105.9‑inch wheelbase for stable, confident manners.

Features

Interior

Clean center stack that groups the touchscreen, drive modes, and storage for easy reach
Standard 12.3‑inch digital gauges let drivers customize the display and see nav prompts at a glance
Digital climate controls live along the lower edge of the screen for quick tap adjustments
Thoughtful console with shifter, cup holder divider, and a two‑way lid armrest to keep small items organized
Available larger 12.9‑inch display lends a modern, tablet‑like feel on upper trims, while LE keeps essentials straightforward.

Safety

Debuts Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 with improved hardware and broader detection for smarter driver assists
Active safety that helps center the vehicle, watch for hazards, and react faster thanks to the new Arene software underpinnings
Standard stability systems and braking support work in the background to help maintain control in tricky moments.

Exterior

Modern hammerhead front end with a paint‑matched grille on Core models for a cleaner look
Wide overfenders with black cladding and strong character lines give it a planted stance
New LED signature taillamps add width visually and a tech‑forward vibe at the rear
Wheel options from 17‑ to 20‑inches across grades, with LE positioned for practical everyday use.

Comfort & Convenience

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto keep phones connected without cords
Dual Bluetooth pairing lets a passenger handle calls or music while the driver stays focused
Voice assistant responds quicker for natural requests, and native maps can show info in the gauge cluster
ToyotaCare covers scheduled maintenance for 2 years/25k miles, adding confidence out of the box.

Dimensions & Capacity

Length:~180.9 in
Height:~67.0 in
No. of Seats:5

Width:~73.0 in
Wheelbase:~105.9 in

Engine & Transmission

Engine Displacement:2.5 L
Fuel Type: Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)

Power:HEV FWD: 226 hp, HEV AWD: 236 hp

Towing & Hauling

Towing Capacity:1,750 lb (FWD and AWD)

Wheels & Tires

Wheel Size:Core models offer a choice of 17-, 18-, or 20-inch wheels, depending on the specific grade.

Steering & Suspension

Steering Type:Electric power steering
Front Suspension:MacPherson strut

Steering Wheel Features:GRADES vary; general multifunction controls with TSS 4.0 integration
Rear Suspension:Multi‑link

Overview

The 2026 RAV4 LE lands as the value‑packed entry in the Core lineup, pairing Toyota’s proven 2.5‑liter hybrid system with available front‑ or all‑wheel drive for everyday usability, while the platform’s added rigidity aims to smooth out ride and handling on American roads. Dimensions for Core models like the LE span 180.9 inches long, 73.0 inches wide, and 67.0 inches tall on a 105.9‑inch wheelbase, giving garage‑friendly size with family‑ready space.

Performance and efficiency

Toyota’s fifth‑generation hybrid tech boosts system output to 226 hp on FWD hybrids and 236 hp on AWD hybrids, delivering livelier response than the prior generation, and the broader lineup also includes a plug‑in hybrid with up to 320 hp and an estimated 50‑mile EV range, though PHEV models are AWD only. For utility, LE AWD and all FWD models are rated to tow 1,750 pounds, while select higher AWD grades elsewhere in the range can tow up to 3,500 pounds.

Tech and safety

Arene, Toyota’s new software platform, underpins quicker, smarter multimedia and the debut of Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, bringing upgraded sensing hardware and improved detection capability. Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual Bluetooth connections, and a standard 12.3‑inch digital gauge cluster modernize the LE’s cabin, with an available larger 12.9‑inch touchscreen offered on upper trims.

Design and practicality

The LE’s Core design carries a paint‑matched grille and the brand’s hammerhead face, flanked by wide overfenders and crisp body lines for a planted look, while new LED signature taillights sharpen the rear. Inside, the reorganized center stack, digital HVAC controls along the display’s lower edge, and a tidy console with a two‑way‑lid armrest make daily use simple, and ToyotaCare covers scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles for added peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is the RAV4 LE in the 2026 lineup?

The LE is part of the Core design family and serves as the well-equipped entry grade in the sixth-generation, fully electrified RAV4 lineup.

Is the 2026 RAV4 LE a hybrid?

Yes, the LE is an HEV (hybrid) model using Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid system paired with a 2.5‑L 4‑cylinder engine.

How much power does the LE have?

Hybrid LE models are rated up to 226 combined system net hp with FWD and 236 hp with AWD.

What wheels and exterior style come with the Core/LE?

Core models feature Toyota’s hammerhead front design with paint‑matched grille and offer 17‑, 18‑, or 20‑inch wheels depending on grade; LE is positioned as the well-equipped base within Core.

What infotainment and screens are included?

All grades include a standard 12.3‑inch digital gauge cluster, plus a 10.5‑inch touchscreen (12.9‑inch available), with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

What is the towing capacity of the LE?

LE AWD is rated at 1,750 pounds, while higher specified AWD hybrid grades can tow up to 3,500 pounds.

When will the 2026 RAV4 LE arrive and what about pricing?

U.S. arrivals begin later in 2025, with pricing to be announced closer to on‑sale timing.

Courtesy: Toyota USA Newsroom

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