There’s a reason the Toyota RAV4 has been the brand’s best-selling vehicle for nearly a decade. Now entering its sixth generation for 2026, this compact SUV continues to deliver on driving dynamics, passenger space, efficiency, and—most importantly—price. In fact, it was the best-selling vehicle nameplate in the world last year.
Toyota aims to build on that momentum with the redesigned 2026 RAV4, which debuted earlier this year. The latest model is a hybrid only, offered with either front- or all-wheel drive, while the more-powerful plug-in hybrid is all-wheel drive only. It also comes packed with more technology than ever before and introduces a range of new trim levels.
The big question is: Which 2026 RAV4 should you buy? Well, I drove most of them, so you don’t have to. Toyota gave me the chance to test the Woodland, XSE, Limited, and GR Sport trims over several days in Arizona to help determine which one might be the best fit for you.
The good news? You really can’t go wrong with any version of the 2026 RAV4. But depending on your needs and preferences, one trim clearly rises above the rest.
RAV4 Woodland
Everyone loves rugged SUVs—and the sales numbers back that up. The new RAV4 Woodland looks to get in on this, but it doesn’t go far enough. The chunky tires, orange accents, and roof rack don’t feel like significant enough upgrades over the XSE or Limited models.
What’s more, the Woodland misses out on some premium features—like the 12.9-inch touchscreen. Instead, it comes with a smaller, though still functional, 10.9-inch display. On the highway, the Woodland is the loudest of the bunch, due to its aggressive tires, which also make for the least comfortable ride.
Unless you frequently drive on dirt roads or face snowy winters, the Woodland, sadly, is probably my least favorite RAV4 in the lineup.
RAV4 XSE
Although I didn’t get to drive entry models like the LE or XLE, it’s hard to imagine why you’d want to downgrade from the XSE—unless Toyota significantly raises its prices for 2026 (which, we don’t expect it to).
The RAV4 XSE offers everything you want and nothing you don’t. It comes standard with a 12.9-inch touchscreen, and the seats feature an excellent synthetic leather and suede combination. Plus, you can choose between the hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain, as well as front- or all-wheel drive, depending on your preference.
Toyota’s XSE trim strikes the perfect balance.
RAV4 Limited
The biggest upgrade from the XSE to the Limited is the standard faux leather seating with heating and cooling. A digital rearview mirror, heated steering wheel, dual wireless charging, and several other features also come standard on the Limited that you’ll have to pay extra for on the XSE.
That said, the RAV4 Limited doesn’t feel drastically different from the XSE. You still have the choice between hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains. The 12.9-inch touchscreen remains standard, though the Limited offers nine speakers compared to the XSE’s six.
Ultimately, the decision between the XSE and Limited will likely come down to price. But I can’t imagine the Limited being worth the extra cost over the already impressive XSE.
RAV4 GR Sport
This is where things get interesting. The GR Sport is a brand-new addition to the 2026 RAV4 lineup. Tuned with input from Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division, the GR Sport is tighter, more agile, and overall the most enjoyable RAV4 to drive.
That said, the GR Sport sits at the top of the RAV4 range, making it the most expensive option (pricing is still pending). Unless your daily drive includes a track like Fuji Speedway, it may be difficult to justify the higher cost for only a modest equipment upgrade over the XSE or Limited models.
Still, it’s a cool model worth considering.
Which RAV4 Should You Buy?
In my mind, the choice is clear: The RAV4 XSE is the one to get.
While it’s not the most premium model—that goes to the Limited—the XSE meets the needs of most buyers. It offers both hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, along with front- or all-wheel drive options. Stylish and well-equipped, it comes standard with the impressive 12.9-inch touchscreen. Plus, it retains the excellent storage and passenger space found throughout the RAV4 lineup.
The XSE truly hits the sweet spot in the RAV4 range.
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Source: We Drove (Nearly) Every 2026 Toyota RAV4 Trim. Here's Which One to Buy
