2026 Jeep Wrangler vs 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

The 2026 Jeep Wrangler retained its iconic design, characterized by its upright, military-style stance and distinct seven-slot grille. The vehicle offered a unique open-air experience with removable doors and roof, and a foldable windshield. The Wrangler was highly customizable, with various trim options ranging from basic to luxurious. Our test model, the Willys ’41, featured a special army green color with matching wheels and a ’41 hood graphic. The interior was utilitarian, with rugged materials and a minimalist design, but it was practical for adventurous drivers. The Wrangler included hard buttons and dials for the HVAC system, and the designers added fun easter eggs throughout the vehicle.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid was available in the Rugged Woodland trim and three Sport grades, including the SE, XSE, and the new GR Sport. The RAV4 maintained the same footprint as its predecessor but featured buffer bumpers that increased its length. The design was boxy, with a truck-like presence, and included features like daytime running lights and an integrated rear roof spoiler. The Woodland trim emphasized off-road capabilities with chunky all-terrain tires and a black roof rack, while the Sport trims showcased gloss black accents and racier elements. The interior offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a touchscreen system, with various storage features and comfortable seating for four passengers.

The 2026 Jeep Wrangler offered a range of powertrains, including the Pentastar 3.6-liter V6, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo, and a 6.4-liter Hemi V8. Our Willys ’41 test vehicle featured the V6 engine, delivering 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The engine provided ample power for everyday driving and off-road adventures, with excellent low-end torque for slow crawling. The Wrangler's maneuverability was impressive, making it suitable for both off-road trails and urban environments. However, the knobby off-road tires and upright stance resulted in a noisy cabin at highway speeds.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured an updated 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 186 horsepower, and a larger 22.7-kwh battery pack. The PHEV delivered a total of 324 horsepower, making it the most powerful RAV4 to date. The all-wheel-drive system included a large front motor and a smaller rear motor, providing a seamless transition of power. The RAV4 PHEV offered multiple driving modes, including EV, Hybrid, and Charge, allowing drivers to optimize performance and efficiency. The GR Sport trim featured enhanced handling attributes, with a lower ride height and performance tires, providing a sportier driving experience.

The 2026 Jeep Wrangler offered practicality with its 9.7 inches of ground clearance and ability to ford up to 30 inches of water. The four-door model provided 31.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second-row seats, expandable to 72.4 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. However, the two-door model had limited cargo space, and the rear seats were tight for larger passengers. The Wrangler's swing-out tailgate and lift-up rear glass facilitated easy access to cargo, but the interior lacked amenities like multiple cup holders and storage cubbies.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid maintained similar dimensions to its predecessor, with optimized interior space and clever storage features. The base SE trim included conveniences like a power driver’s seat and heated front seats, while higher trims offered synthetic leather upholstery and ventilated seats. The RAV4 provided 37.8 inches of rear legroom, accommodating four passengers comfortably. The cargo area offered 33.6 cubic feet of space, expandable to 63.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The interior featured deep door pockets and multiple storage shelves, enhancing practicality.

The 2026 Jeep Wrangler came equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. Optional tech features included a nine-speaker Alpine audio system, a digital rear-view mirror, and a forward-facing TrailCam. The Wrangler's infotainment system supported backcountry mapping apps, and the optional TrailCam was beneficial for off-road enthusiasts. The test vehicle included many optional tech features, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an enhanced 10.5-inch touchscreen system. The digital displays were standard, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The touchscreen offered customizable tiles and a quick menu for easy access to settings. Toyota's new operating system, Arene, improved responsiveness and user interface. The RAV4 PHEV included a built-in dash cam, recording clips from exterior cameras, and a Voice Assistant for various functions.

The 2026 Jeep Wrangler offered limited standard safety features, with advanced safety tech available at a cost. The base Sport trim lacked extra safety tech, while the Sport S trim included adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims offered additional features like blind-spot monitors and rear cross-traffic alert. The Wrangler received mixed safety ratings from the IIHS, with "Good" ratings in some crash tests and "Poor" scores for headlights.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid included Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 as standard, offering a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features. The system encompassed automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitors. The RAV4's safety enhancements aimed to improve responsiveness and detection, contributing to its strong safety record. The NHTSA rated the 2025 RAV4 at five out of five stars, and the 2026 model was expected to address previous shortcomings.