2025 Audi Q7 vs 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

The 2025 Audi Q7 showcased a refined exterior with a new front fascia, featuring standard Matrix-design LED headlamps and stylish daytime running lights. The front spoiler and rear diffuser were subtly tweaked, and the grille was updated with vertical inlays within its octagon frame, resulting in a more cohesive look. Customization options allowed buyers to choose different finishes for the front bumper, door trim, and rear diffuser, while the Black Optic package added black accents and Anthracite Gray Audi rings. A unique laser-etched badging on the B-pillar added a touch of exclusivity. The Q7 was available in nine colours, including the new Sakhir Gold, with five wheel options in 21- or 22-inch diameters. Inside, the updates were minimal, with new wood and carbon trim inlays but limited interior colour choices. The interior featured stacked infotainment screens and extensive HVAC vents, though the piano black finish was prone to fingerprints.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid was available in Canada exclusively with the Sport design, including the base SE, XSE, and the new GR Sport trim. The sixth-generation RAV4 maintained the same footprint as its predecessor, with the GR Sport's assertive grille and rear diffuser extending its length by nearly five centimetres. The RAV4 adopted a boxier, truck-like presence, with square lines and bulging fenders reminiscent of the Highlander models. Gloss black accents adorned the Sport trims, and the GR Sport featured red brake calipers, 20-inch black alloy wheels, and a wide mesh grille. Inside, the RAV4 offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.5-inch touchscreen, with a larger 12.9-inch option on top trims. The interior was designed for practicality, with ample storage and a wide centre console. The GR Sport trim sat lower than other grades, enhancing its sporty handling.

The 2025 Audi Q7 offered two engine options: the 45 TFSI, a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine producing 261 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, and the 55 TFSI, a 3.0-litre turbo V6 with 335 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque, standard on the Progressiv and Technik trims. The eight-speed automatic transmission delivered power to all four wheels, with various drive modes including Comfort, Dynamic, Individual, All Road, and Off Road. The Q7's handling was impressive, with minimal body roll and firm brakes, aided by available all-wheel steering. Fuel economy for the 55 TFSI was rated at 13.0 L/100 km in the city, 10.0 on the highway, and 11.7 combined, while the 45 TFSI offered slightly better efficiency.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured an updated 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine with 186 horsepower, paired with a larger 22.7-kwh battery pack. The PHEV's total power output increased to 324 horsepower, making it the most powerful RAV4 to date. The all-wheel-drive system included a large front motor rated at 203 horsepower and a smaller rear motor for assistance and traction. The RAV4 PHEV offered an estimated electric range of 80 kilometres. The vehicle's performance was spirited, with a 0-100 km/h time in the low five seconds. The GR Sport trim, with its lower stance and enhanced suspension, provided improved handling over rough terrain. The RAV4 PHEV's weight of around 2,040 kilograms was noticeable in corners, but the strengthened chassis ensured a comfortable ride.

The 2025 Audi Q7 featured heated front seats across all trims, with additional amenities like a Bang & Olufsen stereo system and rear door sunshades on the Technik trim. The Luxury package added a massage function for the front seats and an air quality and fragrance function. The Q7's three-row seating was best suited for children in the third row, with limited legroom for adults. Cargo space measured 402 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,011 and 1,970 litres with the seats folded. Small storage was limited, with a shallow centre console and door pockets.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid offered power-adjustable and heated front seats, with ventilated seats standard on the GR Sport and XSE trims. The interior featured clever storage solutions, including multiple shelves and deep door pockets. The RAV4 accommodated four passengers comfortably, with 960 millimetres of rear legroom. Cargo space was slightly reduced compared to the standard RAV4, with 951 litres available, expanding to 1,798 litres with the rear seats folded. The flat cargo floor and temporary spare tire added practicality.

The 2025 Audi Q7's Multi Media Interface (MMI) infotainment system featured a 10.1-inch centre screen and a smaller screen for HVAC controls. The digital gauge cluster was configurable, and the system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Audi App Store offered third-party downloads, and online navigation was included for a trial period. The screen required a firm touch, and the menu structure was user-friendly, though the system could be sluggish.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.5-inch touchscreen, with a larger 12.9-inch option on top trims. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with climate controls integrated into the touchscreen. Toyota's new operating system, Arene, improved responsiveness and loading times. The Voice Assistant responded to a range of prompts, and the system provided information on charging schedules and range maps.

The 2025 Audi Q7 came equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems, including blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Q7's lane-centring was less robust than competitors, but the ADAS features were customizable. The NHTSA awarded the Q7 five stars overall, with four stars for front crash and rollover. The IIHS had not yet rated the 2025 model but gave the 2024 model top marks in crashworthiness.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, with enhanced camera and radar detection. Standard systems included automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. The RAV4's safety record was strong, and the redesign aimed to address previous shortcomings. Crash-testing results for the 2026 model were pending.