Toyota goes all-in on hybrids on the subject of the world’s best-selling mannequin, the RAV4. That is a daring technique, which is an even bigger deal than most of us understand. And that is very true should you’re available in the market for one, since you’re now dealing with a conundrum: purchase a pure-combustion 2025 RAV4 now or watch for the marginally pricier new mannequin. Nonetheless, not all markets get the electrified setup. In China, the RAV4 lives on with a pure-combustion engine with a unique nameplate – the Wildlander.
The Wildlander is, in fact, China’s RAV4 that is made by way of the three way partnership between GAC and Toyota. These two have been working collectively since 2004, and have clasped palms on the subject of the event of a number of applied sciences, together with using ammonia as a gas. The Wildlander is totally different from the opposite RAV4 in China (one which’s truly known as the RAV4), which is being offered by FAW Toyota.
PHEV’s Absent In China For Now
The yet-to-be-launched new Wildlander was found by way of regulatory functions filed with China’s Ministry of Trade and Info Know-how (MIIT), leaked by Autohome. Whereas the alternatives of powertrains within the US are restricted to hybrid and plug-in hybrids, those that dwell on the planet’s largest auto market (or at the least those that purchase from GAC-Toyota) may have three choices – certainly one of which has a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine. The opposite two are non-plug-in hybrids, paired with both 2.0-liter or 2.5-liter engines.
Naturally, the bottom fashions get the ICE, with the gasoline engine producing as much as 169 horsepower, whereas the hybrids make 150 and 182 hp, respectively. Primarily based on the specs within the filings, the Wildlander can be barely larger than the upcoming RAV4, although just about every little thing is an identical, together with the wheelbase. It is unclear if the PHEV variant will turn into out there, which was beforehand provided previous to this full mannequin revamp.
The Wildlander Aligns With America’s RAV4 Core Trim
China’s Wildlander additionally adopts the styling of the RAV4’s Core trim; the Rugged and Sport fashions weren’t noticed within the regulatory filings, significantly the sportiest model, the GR Sport. The brand new mannequin additionally defies GAC-Toyota’s earlier technique to supply a model that appears distinct versus the global-spec RAV4. Each front- and all-wheel-drive variations can be found within the Folks’s Republic based mostly on the badges seen within the photos.
We’re nonetheless ready for Toyota North America for the value announcement of the 2026 RAV4, however we’re not optimistic on this regard. With the bevy of upgrades from the outgoing mannequin, plus the usual electrical motor in all trims, we’re anticipating a considerable improve within the beginning worth. If solely the US may additionally get a non-hybrid RAV4, then that might be excellent news for individuals who are working round a particular finances.
Supply: Autohome