Everything You Need To Know About The 2027 Toyota RAV4ForbesMichael Harley, ContributorUpdatedTue, September 22, 2026 at 6:15 PM UTCAdd us on GoogleThe 2026 Toyota RAV4 Woodland (images of the 2027 model are not yet available)©2026 ToyotaThe 2027 Toyota RAV4 arrives in showrooms with the formula that made it one of the most popular compact SUVs in America—strong efficiency, broad utility, attractive styling, available all-wheel-drive capability, and a lineup made entirely of hybrid powertrains. And, most importantly, a price point that keeps it within reach of most shoppers in the crowded segment.Toyota introduced the "Recreational Activity Vehicle" with 4-wheel drive (aka "RAV4") in Japan and Europe in 1994, followed by the U.S. market in 1996. It combined a carlike unibody structure and compact dimensions with a raised driving position and available four-wheel drive—an unconventional alternative to the truck-based sport utilities of the era (most consumers don't realize the Toyota RAV4 was a "crossover" before the term evolved into an industry category).Today's RAV4 is a familiar default choice for those who might once have bought a midsize sedan but have latched onto the popular crossover craze. For many, it's an excellent upgrade from a Toyota Corolla, and for others, it's an alternative to the Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, and Nissan Rogue. Over the past six generations, the RAV4 has evolved from a small, quirky, soft-roader to a proper four-door vehicle for a small family.AdvertisementAdvertisementBeing fully transparent, there aren't many changes from 2026 to 2027 for the Toyota RAV4. The vehicle received significant updates for the 2026 model year (a fresh exterior with Toyota's "hammerhead" front-end treatment, a redesigned cabin, standard 12.3-inch digital instrumentation, an available 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, and Toyota's new Arene-based software architecture). The 2027 retains those core improvements, including available Advanced Park, an available 1,500-watt cargo-area power outlet, up to five USB-C ports, optional dual wireless phone chargers and an available hands-free power liftgate. Toyota says the vehicle's new cabin combines the standard configurable 12.3-inch gauge cluster with the available 12.9-inch center display.The dashboard of the 2026 Toyota RAV4 Limited (images of the 2027 models are not yet available)Trim lines are divided into broad design themes (Core, Rugged, and Sport) that define mission and equipment levels. Core models (LE, XLE, Limited) are the mainstream range, from a value-led entry-level model to a fully equipped premium version. The Rugged model (Woodland) offers standard all-wheel drive (AWD) and more adventure-ready appointments. Lastly, the Sport models (SE, XSE, GR Sport) look more athletic, with the GR Sport tuned for performance.The conventional gasoline-only RAV4 is gone for 2027—all new models are powered by gasoline-electric powertrains. The standard hybrid system pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric-motor assistance and an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT). Front-wheel-drive (FWD) hybrid versions produce 226 horsepower, while AWD models make 236 horsepower thanks to an additional rear electric motor that is not mechanically connected to the front powertrain. Fuel-economy estimates run as high as 46 mpg city and 39 mpg highway for the most efficient FWD only versions. At the same time, the AWD Woodland with more aggressive all-terrain tires sits at the other end of the range at roughly 42 mpg city and 35 mpg highway (an impressive number for the configuration).Toyota also offers a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), formerly called the RAV4 Prime. It features standard AWD and a powerplant rated at about 320 horsepower. A full charge delivers about 50 miles of pure-EV range, which is great for local trips and short commutes. Once discharged, the PHEV operates just like a standard gasoline-electric hybrid.The 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium (images of the 2027 models are not yet available)Toyota has been known for reliability for decades, and it backs the RAV4 with a strong warranty. Basic coverage is 3 years or 36,000 miles; the powertrain is 5 years or 60,000 miles; hybrid-related components are 8 years or 100,000 miles; and the hybrid or plug-in hybrid battery is 10 years or 150,000 miles. ToyotaCare scheduled maintenance is included for 2 years or 25,000 miles—helping to keep costs down during the first couple of years.AdvertisementAdvertisementAs a comprehensive package, the RAV4 does everything expected of it and more—there isn't much to not like about the vehicle. That said, the 2027 Toyota RAV4 is a solid choice for those shopping in the compact crossover (or compact SUV) segment.This article was originally published on Forbes.com