Image: Kyle Patrick Image: Kyle Patrick Expect similar space for people but more storage-and less buttons. It's here: the 2026 Toyota RAV4 bowed earlier this week, ushering in the next chapter for the best-selling SUV in America and Canada. While it is basically the same size as before, there are plenty of changes, not least of which is a fully, 100-percent hybrid powertrain lineup. AutoGuide got a brief bit of hands-on time with the new model in various trims at Toyota's US headquarters in Plano, Texas. Here are our initial experiences ahead of the '26 RAV4's launch later this year. Tweaked Looks Image: Toyota USA Image: Toyota USA The overall measurements are all practically the same as before, but the new RAV4 adopts a different design language. While the current model leaned more towards Toyota's truck lineup with a rugged, angular shape, the '26 takes inspiration from the Prius, especially with its C-shaped "hammerhead" headlights. There's more model differentiation than before as well: the Woodland has a filled-in grille and Rigid Industries lighting, the GR Sport has a gaping lower bumper not unlike that of the GR Yaris, while the "Core" trims feature the cheese-grater look shown on the Crown Signia and newly refreshed Corolla Cross. We're not quite at truck trim levels of distinction, but it's more than you'll see from competitors. Move around the side and the RAV4 is more familiar. A small bit of black plastic still sits at the base of the A-pillar, same as before. The wheel arches are still angular, though certain models see them stretched outward for an additional inch of width. There is a more pronounced hip line starting on the rear door, arching up and over the rear wheel like that Highlander, Sienna, and Supra. One of the most obvious changes to the shape takes place out back, where Toyota has given the RAV4 a more upright (and larger) rear glass panel. Thin, LED-lit headlights wrap around the bottom of the glass. They look great at night, though we can't shake the Nissan Rogue vibes. Genesis X Gran Equator Concept: All The Details Useful Cabin Improvements Image: Toyota USA Image: Toyota USA We've dinged the current RAV4 cabin for a few years now, mostly for its only-okay material quality and design. Since these were early prototypes, it isn't appropriate to make a call on the former for now. We can say we like the new Mineral color found in the Woodland pictured above, mind you. The new design is much more modern, while maintaining the blocky, rugged feel that worked so well for the existing model. A new door panel design hides the handles while carving out more width, and the door tops now wrap around to the windshield in a shape not dissimilar to the RAV4's wheel arches. Toyota has resisted dropping the deep-set instrument cluster from the Prius here, instead giving the RAV4 the brand's first cowl-less digital instrument cluster. Beside it, a larger touchscreen perches atop a minimalist dashboard. The lower section ditches the stylized metallic V of yesteryear for a more straightforward collection of cubbies, improving storage space. The chunky shifter sits closer to the driver with cupholders on the far side, ensuring drinks don't get in the way of operating the vehicle. In terms of space, don't expect much of a difference from the current model, as the wheelbase (105.9 inches / 2,690 millimeters) and height (67.0 in / 1,702 mm) are unchanged. We do believe Toyota has carved out more cargo space with the more upright rear glass however, and there may still be more to gain from the fifth-gen hybrid setup's battery. Big Screen, Few Buttons Image: Toyota USA Image: Toyota USA Here's where things get a little challenging. Toyota is talking up its latest infotainment system, and press photos do make it look snappy. Unfortunately, I couldn't try much for myself at HQ as the cars' batteries had all drained. Toyota is happy to point out the climate controls are permanently on the screen, but that still requires more effort than traditional rotary dials or buttons. I did get a quick peek in the reveal event vehicles and it looks sharp, and yes, there are still physical controls for things like drive modes, EV mode, and the rest. We'll have to wait and see how buyers respond. Similarly, even Toyota is keeping mum on any changes for Toyota Safety Sense+ 4.0, which the '26 RAV4 will be the first model to feature. These Wagons Are Still Hot With Consumers