Talking Cars 488: Driving the 2026 Toyota RAV4 PHEV

Plus, our experts discuss the best balance of power and range for EVs, and the best tire size to survive awful roads

Mike Quincy, Consumer Reports Content Specialist, Autos.

By Mike Quincy
Content Specialist, Autos

December 17, 2025

Main theme: In this podcast episode, we share our early driving impressions of the redesigned 2026 Toyota RAV4, which we borrowed from the manufacturer. The big news is that this uber-popular SUV is now offered strictly as a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and in both front- and all-wheel-drive configurations. Dimensionally, the new model is identical to the previous model, but it does come with standard BSW and RCTW.

The hybrid produces 23 more hp than the previous base engine, for 226 combined hp, and for the first time, it’s available in a front-drive configuration. The AWD version has even more oomph, with 236 hp. (Learn more about the RAV4 Hybrid.)

The plug-in hybrid powertrain gained 18 hp for 2026, raising its combined output to 324 hp, and has standard AWD.

The panelists talk about the various improvements Toyota made to the new model, including the ride, handling, and overall noise levels. They also dive into the controls and infotainment system, highlighting what worked . . . and what didn’t.

We’ll be buying our own test cars when they go on sale. The hybrid is expected to be available in early 2026, with the plug-in hybrid version going on sale in the spring.

Read the 2026 Toyota RAV4 PHEV first drive.

Audience Questions
• When it comes to EVs, what is the proper balance (or trade-off) between horsepower and range?
• Will bigger wheels and tires better survive potholes and lousy roads? Or should you go with smaller wheels for a more comfortable and quieter ride?

Talking Cars episode 488 podcast panel — “Talking Cars” panelists (from left): Mike Quincy, Alex Knizek, and Mike Monticello.

How to Listen

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Recent Episodes

• CR’s 2026 Automotive Report Card, episode 487
• The All Questions Episode, episode 486
• Driving the Lucid Gravity, episode 485
• 2026 Hyundai Palisade, episode 484
• 2026 Top Pick Tires, episode 483

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Mike Quincy

Mike Quincy is a writer, editor, podcaster, and tester with the Consumer Reports autos team. He has been with CR since 1993, purchasing more than 160 cars for the test program. Previously, Mike wrote for Automobile Magazine. When he’s not working, Mike can be found training for a long-distance bicycle ride, honing a wide variety of baked goods, or studying the world of mixology in search of the perfect martini.