2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid vs 2026 Toyota Sequoia

The 2026 Toyota Sequoia had a robust and imposing design, reminiscent of its Tundra pickup sibling. Its tall and wide stance, coupled with blocky features, gave it a commanding presence on the road. The front showcased a large black grille, more contained than the Tundra's, while the sides featured a distinctive shoulder line and pronounced haunches over the wheels. The Sequoia's cabin continued the chunky theme, with large dials and a utilitarian feel, especially in the TRD Pro trim. The interior offered a mix of synthetic leather and hard plastics, with varying levels of luxury depending on the trim. The base SR5 came with cloth upholstery, while higher trims boasted real leather and additional stitching details.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid was available in the Rugged Woodland trim and three Sport grades, including the exclusive GR Sport. It maintained the same footprint as its predecessor but featured buffer bumpers for added length. The RAV4 adopted a boxy, truck-like design, with square wheel arches and bulging fenders. The Woodland trim emphasized its off-road capabilities with a wide front fascia, solid panels replacing fog lights, and a black roof rack. Sport trims added gloss black accents and racier elements, such as red brake calipers and a wide mesh grille. The interior offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a touchscreen system, with various accents and badging depending on the trim.

The 2026 Toyota Sequoia transitioned from a V8 to a hybrid powertrain, featuring a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine producing 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque. An electric motor added 48 hp and 184 lb-ft, drawing power from a 1.87-kWh battery. The Sequoia delivered a V8-like performance, with a 0–60 mph time of about six seconds. It could tow up to 9,520 pounds, aided by a haul mode and optional Tow Tech package. The TRD Pro trim was equipped for off-roading, with an off-road-tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, and a part-time 4WD system with low-range gearing. Handling was typical for a full-size SUV, with body lean in corners and a generally good ride quality.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured an updated 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 324 horsepower, making it the most powerful RAV4 to date. It had a larger 22.7-kWh battery pack, offering an estimated range of 52 miles in EV mode. The RAV4 PHEV accelerated quickly off the line, with a 0-60 mph time in the low five seconds. It offered multiple driving modes, including EV, Auto, Hybrid, and Charge, allowing for seamless power transitions. The GR Sport trim had enhanced handling, with a lower ride height, 20-inch wheels, and summer performance tires. The RAV4 PHEV's weight was noticeable in corners, but it maintained a spirited ride without sacrificing comfort.

The 2026 Toyota Sequoia could accommodate seven or eight passengers, with standard power seat adjustments in the first row. While spacious, the seats were flat, affecting long-trip comfort. The second row offered good comfort, especially with captain’s chairs, and the third row was accessible but lacked thigh support. Cargo space was limited, with 11.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 86.9 cubic feet with seats folded. The cargo floor was not flat, but a cargo shelf helped even it out.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid's base SE trim was well-equipped, with power driver’s seat, heated front seats, and multiple USB ports. The interior dimensions remained similar to the previous generation, with clever storage features like a dashboard shelf and center console storage. The RAV4 PHEV offered 37.8 inches of rear legroom, accommodating four passengers comfortably. Cargo space was reduced to 33.6 cubic feet due to the battery, but folding the rear seats provided 63.5 cubic feet of flat storage.

The 2026 Toyota Sequoia featured a standard 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, upgradeable to a 14-inch screen. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite radio, Wi-Fi Connect, and Safety Connect. Higher trims offered a head-up display, wireless phone charger, and a JBL audio system. The climate controls and drive mode selector were easily accessible on the center console.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid came with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.5-inch touchscreen, with a larger 12.9-inch screen on top trims. The system featured customizable tiles, improved graphics, and Toyota’s Arene operating system. The Voice Assistant responded to various prompts, and a built-in dash cam recorded clips from exterior cameras. The touchscreen integrated climate controls, with physical temperature buttons and a volume knob.

The 2026 Toyota Sequoia was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and traffic-sign recognition. It also had blind-spot monitors, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system. The Sequoia received mixed crash-test results from the IIHS, with a top Good score in some tests but a Marginal score in others. The wide tow mirrors posed a challenge in tight spots.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, with enhanced camera and radar detection. The suite included automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitors, and a safe-exit alert. All but the base SE had a surround-view camera system. The RAV4 PHEV's safety record was historically strong, with expected improvements in crash protection.