Toyota has been performing exceptionally well in the U.S. automotive market this year. While October’s sales data isn’t out yet, the first nine months of 2024 saw a 6.2% increase in deliveries, reaching 1.73 million units. That puts Toyota behind GM’s 1.95 million but well ahead of Ford’s 1.548 million, which grew by 2.7%.
A major contributor to Toyota’s strong performance is its best-selling compact crossover, the RAV4, along with the ever-popular Camry sedan. In fact, Toyota sold nearly 1.1k Camry units per business day in September, pushing total sales past 227k for the year. The decision to make the 2025 Camry hybrid-only clearly hasn’t hurt its popularity.
Meanwhile, the RAV4 remains a powerhouse in the compact SUV segment. Toyota moved nearly 1.5k RAV4 units per business day in September, despite the current fifth-generation model (XA50) being on the market since 2018. It received a mid-cycle update in 2021, but the 2024 model remains largely unchanged, starting at $28,675 for gas-powered versions, $31,725 for hybrids, and $43,690 for the plug-in hybrid (PHEV).
What’s Next for the RAV4?
With the current generation nearing the end of its cycle, enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting news on its successor. While Toyota has remained tight-lipped, rumors and speculative renderings have started circulating. One such rendering comes from Avarvarii Automotive Artworks, offering an unofficial glimpse at what the next-generation RAV4 Hybrid might look like.
Avarvarii suggests that Toyota’s approach to the 2025 Camry provides valuable clues. If the trend continues, the 2026 RAV4 could go hybrid-only, with both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options. While major technical overhauls aren’t expected, the hybrid and PHEV versions could see improved all-electric range, and the PHEV might feature faster AC charging. Inside, the new RAV4 will likely borrow design elements from the 2025 Camry, offering a more modern and refined cabin.
Toyota has yet to confirm any details, but if these predictions hold true, the 2026 RAV4 Hybrid will continue its reign as a top-selling compact crossover with thoughtful, evolutionary updates. What are your thoughts on this potential redesign of the 2026 Toyota RAV4?