- The 2026 Toyota RAV4 PHEV is now on sale in Japan.
- A new emergency mode can power a home for seven days.
- In Japan, the PHEV comes only in Z and GR Sport trims.
Toyota has finally rolled out the plug-in hybrid and GR Sport versions of the RAV4 in Japan, completing a launch that began in North America and Europe. Alongside the debut, it has also confirmed key specifications for the electrified SUV, which is tasked with building on the strong reputation of its predecessor.
Visually, there are no differences between the Japanese-spec RAV4 PHEV and the global model. Buyers can choose between the standard Z and the more aggressive GR Sport trims, while the Adventure grade remains hybrid-only in Japan.
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The Z features gloss black accents to distinguish the PHEV from the regular hybrid, while the GR Sport adds a unique bumper, specific alloy wheels, red brake calipers and a rear spoiler. The GR upgrades go beyond cosmetics.
There are performance dampers, additional bracing and sharper tuning for both the suspension and the electric power steering. Even the battery pack contributes structurally, acting as a reinforcing member to increase rigidity.
Toyota RAV4 GR Sport (JDM-spec)
Of course, the PHEV is compatible with the optional styling packages from Modellista, which are already available for the regular hybrid in Japan.
Inside, the layout mirrors other markets. A 12.9-inch infotainment display runs Toyota’s Arene software platform, joined by a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a color head-up display. Equipment includes the “Electro Shiftmatic” shifter, wireless charging, a hands-free tailgate, heated and ventilated seats and an optional panoramic moonroof.
Same Hardware, Different Test Cycles
The plug-in hybrid powertrain of the RAV4 pairs a 2.5-liter engine with dual electric motors and a 22.7 kWh battery pack. Combined output stands at 324 hp (242 kW / 329 PS), identical to the US-spec version. Drive is sent to all four wheels through an e-CVT.
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Toyota quotes an EV range of 93 miles (150 km) under the WLTC cycle. That comfortably exceeds Europe’s 62 miles (100 km) WLTP figure and the EPA’s 52 miles (84 km) estimate in the US. The discrepancy lies in the testing protocols rather than the hardware, as all RAV4 PHEV variants share the same mechanical package.
Toyota RAV4 PHEV (JDM-spec)
Power Supply For Up To Seven Days
One of the more practical features is the “Power Supply Time Priority Mode”. According to Toyota, it coordinates the battery and combustion engine to provide electricity to a home for up to seven days, or 6.5 days in regular “Power Supply Mode”, at a constant 400W load. To achieve the maximum duration, the vehicle must start with a fully charged battery and a full tank of fuel.
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The RAV4 PHEV can power your devices from an internal socket located in the luggage area. Furthermore, it is equipped with a power connector that plugs into the charging port, turning it into a 100V external socket that provides up to 1,500W of electricity.
Toyota has demonstrated the system in a series of videos, showing use cases that range from camping and cooking to hosting a live music event or streaming a remote podcast, all powered directly by the plug-in hybrid system.
Pricing And Production Plans
The new Toyota RAV4 PHEV is now available to order in Japan, with a planned production of 700 units per month.
The Z trim of the plug-in hybrid is priced at ¥6,000,000 ($38,800), an increase of ¥1,100,000 ($7,100) compared to the equivalent hybrid. Predictably, the PHEV-only GR Sport is the most expensive member of the lineup, starting at ¥6,300,000 ($40,750).