Don’t Expect RAV4 Discounts—Even With a New Model Coming

AliciaSci/Tech2025-07-298050

Don’t Expect RAV4 Discounts—Even With a New Model Coming originally appeared on Autoblog.

America’s Best-Seller is Getting a New-Generation Revamp

The RAV4 is more than just Toyota's cash cow – it's the world's best-selling nameplate and the best-selling passenger vehicle in the US for 2024, even eclipsing the mighty Ford F‑150. With sales nearing 475,000 units, the compact SUV continues to dominate driveways nationwide.

Needless to say, the revamped version is just as important as the outgoing model for the automaker. And yet, there aren't any changes on the prices of current stock, even with a new-generation 2026 RAV4 on the horizon.

Given its popularity, Toyota dealers appear content to maintain stability in RAV4 pricing rather than capitalize on anticipation. If you're in the market for one, there's a huge chance that you're facing a dilemma between settling for the outgoing version or waiting patiently for the new version to arrive.

Kristen Brown

View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article

Outgoing 2025 Inventory Holds Its Value

A snapshot of the inventory through Cars.com reveals that the 2025 RAV4 LE is listed between $30,880 and $34,263, while the Hybrid XLE sits solidly in the high-$30,000 range. Earlier in 2025, dealers offered minor price adjustments, like a $500-$800 discount on LE trims, but nothing dramatic. Even the plug-in hybrid variants, which will be replaced by a significantly better system in 2026, aren't getting any discounts – at least for now.

Overall, prices align closely with MSRP, signaling that demand remains robust even as the next generation looms. There's no significant markdown pressure, and current hybrid variants continue to hold strong in the showroom.

Toyota has yet to officially release the 2026 RAV4 pricing, but it's expected to increase to reflect the improvements. It will be offered with an all-hybrid lineup, so we expect the base hybrid models to start $34,000, roughly $1,400 more than today's hybrid MSRP, while the top-tier Limited and GR-Sport PHEV trims climb toward $42,000-$50,000.

View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article

What Buyers Should Know – and Do

As expected, the 2026 RAV4 comes with a suite of improvements, which buyers should consider. These include electrified drivetrains (HEV and PHEV), increased power (226–236 hp for the HEV; 320 hp for the PHEV), up to 50 miles of EV range for PHEV, competitive towing capacity (3,500 lb for AWD), and significantly updated in-cabin tech.

Inside, buyers get a 12.3‑inch digital gauge cluster, a 12.9‑inch infotainment screen, Toyota’s new Arene software, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, digital climate controls, and standard Safety Sense 4.0. Styling gets sharper too, with LED taillights, larger grilles, bold fascia, and three design personas: Core, Rugged, and Sport.

The biggest question is: should you buy now or wait? If your priority is value, immediate availability, and proven performance, the outgoing 2025 models, specifically the hybrids, remain a strong choice. On the other hand, if you're drawn to the newest offering, waiting pays off. Especially for those eyeing the new PHEV or loftier trims, the additional premium seems justified.

There's no rush to buy, but no harm either. With steady prices on outgoing models and the 2026 lineup arriving late 2025, your decision hinges on whether the new tech and styling are worth the wait – and extra price.