Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Reportedly Adds Mud, Sand, Snow and Dirt Modes

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A Small Update for the RAV4’s Second Year

The sixth-gen Toyota RAV4 is barely out of the gate, and the automaker can barely keep up with demand. With order books still overflowing, nobody expected a big update so soon.

But word from Japan says Toyota is already cooking up its first tweak. Early adopters can relax – this isn’t a facelift or a cabin overhaul. Instead, Toyota is zeroing in on one area where the RAV4 could use a little extra grit.

Multi-Terrain Select Could Finally Reach Hybrid Models

According to Creative Trend, the 2027 RAV4 will ditch the old Trail mode on AWD hybrids and replace it with two new terrain settings: Mud & Sand and Snow & Dirt.

That’s a big deal, since those extra drive modes have always been the domain of gas-powered AWD RAV4s with a mechanical link between the axles. Hybrids, with their electric rear motors, have been stuck with a basic traction-control setup and controlled delivery – particularly in the American Woodland trim, where they are called Trail and Snow modes.

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Toyota’s Multi-Terrain Select system tweaks the AWD, brakes, and traction to suit whatever you’re driving over, giving you more grip when things get slippery. The report says this tech is finally making a comeback for the new-gen RAV4 hybrids after sitting out the last round. It’s unclear, however, how the update will differ from the current drive modes found in the rugged RAV4 trims.

Don’t expect any wild new paint colors or flashy trim. The report says this update is laser-focused on the drive modes, with no real changes to the looks or cabin.

Production timing will reportedly differ by powertrain. Hybrid RAV4 production is expected to begin in November 2026, while plug-in hybrid production is scheduled to start in January 2027.

2026 Toyota RAV4 Woodland Hybrid

Cole Attisha

Could North America Get the Same Upgrade?

Right now, this looks like a Japan-only move. Toyota hasn’t said a word about bringing the new drive modes to North American RAV4s.

If these features do cross the Pacific, the RAV4 Woodland is the obvious candidate. It’s already the ‘adventure’ trim, with chunky tires, more ground clearance, outdoorsy looks, and the aforementioned Trail and Snow modes.

Giving the Woodland those new drive modes would finally let its software live up to its tough-guy looks. It’s perfect for buyers who want to tackle dirt roads, trails, or snow without pretending they’re headed for Moab.

There’s also a big question mark for current owners. Creative Trend points out that it’s not clear if Toyota could roll out the new Multi-Terrain Select as a software update for existing RAV4s in Japan. If it’s all digital, there’s a chance, but nothing’s official yet.

About the author

Jacob Oliva

Senior Editor, Autoblog

Jacob Oliva is a senior editor at Autoblog with more than a decade of experience covering industry news, price analysis, aftermarket modifications and new-vehicle reviews. He is also managing editor of Autocar Philippines.