The new generation of the RAV4 HEV marks a key point in Toyota ‘s strategy in Mexico. From now on, the model range will be entirely hybrid electric; moreover, it not only represents a product evolution, but also another piece within the brand’s regional logistics network.
The sixth generation of the SUV will be manufactured at Toyota’s plant in Ontario, Canada , and will arrive in the country via rail transport, as part of the productive integration of North America.
During the presentation, Guillermo Díaz, president of Toyota Motor Sales Mexico and Lexus de México, emphasized that electrification is the central focus of the brand’s vision.
“At this brand, we always strive to ensure that mobility has a positive impact on people’s lives and the planet. We try to offer efficient solutions that contribute to reducing emissions,” he stated.
He recalled that Toyota began its journey toward electrification in Mexico in 2010 with the launch of the Toyota Prius . Since then, he estimated, the brand has helped prevent the emission of nearly two million tons of CO2 in the country.
“We set ourselves the goal of having at least one electrified vehicle in each segment by 2030, and we are going to meet that goal sooner,” he said.
Gerardo Romero, Vice President of Operations for Toyota Motor Sales Mexico, noted that globally, more than 15 million units have been sold since 1994. In Mexico, where it has been sold since 2003, sales have exceeded 220,000 units
Furthermore, since the introduction of the hybrid electric version in 2019, 32,991 units have been sold.
“We went from selling more than three thousand in 2019 to more than seven thousand in 2025. These numbers clearly reflect that electrification in Mexico is not a future promise, it is a reality,” he said.
The sixth generation comes with four versions: LE, XLE, Limited and Woodland; all electric hybrids.
It uses a 2.5-liter engine assisted by electric propulsion, producing 226 hp in front-wheel drive and 236 hp in all-wheel drive. The reported combined fuel consumption ranges from 23.2 to 27.7 km/l.
Romero highlighted that, in addition to electrification, the model takes an important step in digitalization.
“This is the first Toyota vehicle in Mexico with Toyota Connected Services. This platform lays the foundation for vehicles that are increasingly defined by software,” he commented.
The plug-in hybrid is here
The brand announced that the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) version will arrive in the first half of the year , allowing for fully electric driving with the gasoline engine providing backup when needed.
“We don’t force customers to use any type of technology. What we do is provide the options so they can decide,” he explained.
He added that Toyota also has electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles globally, whose arrival will depend on the evolution of the Mexican market.
This year, the company expects to sell around 127,000 units in Mexico , surpassing the 3.6% growth recorded the previous year.
With the new 2026 RAV4 HEV, Toyota consolidates an electrification strategy that, according to the brand itself, has already ceased to be a future bet and has become a commercial reality in the country.
Comment and follow us on LinkedIn: @Jennifer Galindo / @GrupoT21
