Drive.com
THE latest Toyota RAV4 is shaping up as the most fuel-efficient version of the popular SUV to date, with early data revealing notable gains in economy and emissions.
According to figures published by the Australian Government’s Green Vehicle Guide, the 2026 hybrid model will consume as little as 4.2L/100km in urban driving conditions – a significant improvement over the outgoing model’s 4.8L/100km.
On the combined cycle, the industry benchmark for fuel consumption, the new RAV4 Hybrid is rated at 4.5L/100km for two-wheel-drive variants, down from 4.7L/100km previously. All-wheel-drive versions also see gains, improving to 4.6L/100km from 4.8L/100km.
The efficiency improvements are most noticeable in stop-start city driving, where fuel use has dropped by more than 12 per cent. Highway consumption, however, remains largely unchanged.
Lower fuel consumption has also translated into reduced emissions. The 2026 RAV4 Hybrid produces 102g/km of CO₂ in two-wheel-drive form, compared to 107g/km in the previous generation. All-wheel-drive variants drop to 105g/km, down from 109g/km.
Despite the gains in efficiency, there has been a slight reduction in performance. Total system output for the hybrid powertrain has been reduced to 143kW, compared to up to 163kW in the outgoing all-wheel-drive model.
While initial government listings suggested the model met Euro 5 emissions standards, Toyota has confirmed the new RAV4 will comply with stricter Euro 6 Australian Design Rules.
A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version is also on the horizon, expected to surpass the standard hybrid in efficiency thanks to its ability to travel significant distances on electric power alone. Overseas figures suggest the RAV4 PHEV could offer between 80km and 130km of electric-only driving range, depending on testing conditions.
The new RAV4 has already begun arriving in Australia, with customer deliveries expected to commence shortly following its local launch.
With fuel prices remaining volatile, the improved efficiency of the 2026 RAV4 Hybrid is likely to strengthen its appeal among Australian buyers.
