new Vs.old: Toyota RAV4.
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The new 2026 Toyota RAV4 seems to already be everywhere. At least on the web. Let’s see how “new” it really is when compared to the previous generation.
We already know the new RAV4 is based on a revised version of the same platform, which implies similar proportions. But at least, the design is new. Even it if seems very familiar from most angles. So familiar that I think most people, besides current Toyota owners, won’t be able to tell the difference.
To me, the best improvement is the front grille. Which doesn’t look like this huge black plastic sad mouth anymore. The headlights are starting looking a bit gimmicky. Especially when a similar design still looks much better on the 2024 Toyota Prius.
It seems very slightly visually improved here and there, but again, not by much. The more upright rear end probably means more cargo space available. And the read side window is also a bit larger for better visibility.
Same thing inside where things look different, but feel very similar. Since everything is basically in the same place. Sure, the cupholder are now in a vertical position and the shifter is way smaller, like in most new Toyota models. Otherwise, it seems switches, screens and everything else is where it was in the previous version. (look at the A-pillars and their integrated small speakers).Again, this will probably feel new enough for current owners.
I guess that’s what happened when you sell over 475,000 units. You can’t offer something that looks too different. Repeat customers are enough for a huge hit. If you pick up a few new ones along the way, that’s even better.
And yet, I am not sure that in the end, the new generation will be more popular than the old after a year or two. As it will look old pretty quickly…
They basically made a Nissan Rogue with an ugly front grille that doesn’t belong on SUVs.