2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid vs 2026 Ford Explorer

The 2026 Ford Explorer retained much of its previous design, having undergone a facelift in 2025 that introduced a more rugged, truck-like appearance. This design was particularly suited to the 2026 Tremor model, which enhanced its off-road capabilities with features like all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels, a raised ride height, and off-road lights integrated into the grille. The Tremor also sported a distinctive Electric Spice colour, reminiscent of Subaru's Wilderness models, adding a unique touch to its rugged aesthetic. The raised suspension provided 22 centimetres of ground clearance, surpassing competitors like the Chevrolet Traverse Z71 and the Honda Pilot TrailSport. Inside, the Explorer's interior remained largely unchanged from its 2025 overhaul, featuring a new infotainment system and improved screen integration. However, the materials in the Tremor model did not quite match its price point, despite the variety of options available across the lineup.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid was available exclusively in the Sport design in Canada, including the base SE, XSE, and the new GR Sport trim. The 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 design embraced a boxier, truck-like presence, with square lines and bulging fenders similar to the Highlander models. The Sport trims featured gloss black accents and racier elements, such as red brake calipers and a wide mesh grille. Inside, the RAV4 offered a standard 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a choice between a 10.5-inch or 12.9-inch touchscreen. The interior design was streamlined, with a wide centre console housing a mechanical gear shifter or a shift-by-wire setup, depending on the trim. The RAV4's interior was optimized for storage, with clever features like a shelf over the dashboard and deep door pockets.

The 2026 Ford Explorer continued with its existing powertrain options. The standard 2.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivered 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, while the twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6, available on the Tremor and standard on the Explorer ST, produced 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The Tremor model also featured a Torsen limited-slip rear differential, off-road drive mode, and steel skid plates. Despite its size, the Explorer handled confidently on the road, with the twin-turbo V6 providing ample power for passing and highway driving. The 10-speed automatic transmission was praised for its quick and smooth shifts, enhancing the driving experience. Off-road, the Tremor model demonstrated impressive capability, handling challenging trails with ease, although it was noted that a Bronco might have been more suited for such terrain.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured an updated 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine, now rated at 186 horsepower, and a larger 22.7-kwh battery pack. This resulted in a power increase to 324 hp, making it the most powerful RAV4 to date. The all-wheel-drive system included a large front motor rated at 203 hp and a smaller rear motor for assistance and traction. In EV mode, the RAV4 offered a range of 80 kilometres, suitable for quiet city driving. The hybrid system provided a seamless transition of power, with paddle shifters allowing for manual control of the CVT. The RAV4's ride was spirited yet comfortable, with a strengthened chassis for improved rigidity. The GR Sport trim offered enhanced handling with a lower ride height and beefier suspension components, providing a sportier driving experience compared to the XSE model.

The 2026 Ford Explorer accommodated up to seven passengers across three rows, with the option for second-row captain’s chairs reducing capacity to six. While the Explorer offered reasonable space for a midsize crossover, it had slightly less headroom in the third row compared to some competitors. The second-row legroom was also less than that of the Honda Pilot. Cargo space was competitive, with 461 litres available with all seats in place, expanding to 1,302 litres with the rear seats folded, and 2,415 litres with the second row down. The Explorer's interior featured ample storage options, including large door pockets and a spacious centre console. The vehicle's towing capacity was up to 2,268 kilograms, which was average for its class.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid maintained similar dimensions to its predecessor, with optimized interior space. The base SE trim included power-adjustable and heated front seats, five USB ports, and push-button start. The interior featured clever storage solutions, such as a shelf over the dashboard and deep door pockets. The RAV4 comfortably seated four passengers, with 960 millimetres of rear legroom, although five passengers would find it a tighter fit. The cargo area offered 951 litres of space, expanding to 1,798 litres with the rear seats folded. The RAV4's interior was designed for practicality, with features like a removable cupholder separator and a storage nook below the wireless charging deck.

The 2026 Ford Explorer came standard with a 13.2-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The infotainment system included Google Maps, Google Play Store, and SiriusXM with a free trial. The Explorer offered multiple USB ports throughout the cabin and an optional 14-speaker B&O audio system. The touchscreen was responsive, though the climate control icons could be more user-friendly. The available 360-degree camera system provided useful views for off-road driving, with cameras that remained active at higher speeds.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an enhanced 10.5-inch touchscreen, with a larger 12.9-inch option on higher trims. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with climate controls integrated into the touchscreen. The user interface was improved, with customizable tiles and a quick menu for easy access to settings. Toyota's new operating system, Arene, enhanced responsiveness and loading times. The Voice Assistant responded to a wide range of commands, and the system provided information on charging schedules and range maps.

The 2026 Ford Explorer was equipped with the CoPilot 360+ suite, including adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, and more. Higher trims featured CoPilot 360 2.0, adding a 360-degree camera system and predictive speed assist. The Explorer also included Ford's BlueCruise hands-free highway driving system, upgraded to version 1.5 with automated lane change capability. The Explorer received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, earning a Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star overall safety rating.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features. The system included automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and more. The RAV4's safety features were enhanced with a wider camera view and broader radar detection range. While crash-testing results for the 2026 model were pending, the RAV4 had a strong safety record, with previous models receiving high ratings from safety organizations.