Non-Hybrid Toyota RAV4 Exists, And It Isn’t Called A RAV4

3 months, 2 weeks ago - 14 August 2025, Carbuzz

Toyota goes all-in on hybrids when it comes to the world's best-selling model, the RAV4. That's a bold strategy, which is a bigger deal than most of us realize. And that's especially true if you're in the market for one, because you're now facing a conundrum: buy a pure-combustion 2025 RAV4 now or wait for the slightly pricier new model.

However, not all markets get the electrified setup. In China, the RAV4 lives on with a pure-combustion engine with a different nameplate - the Wildlander.

The Wildlander is, of course, China's RAV4 that's made through the joint venture between GAC and Toyota. These two have been working together since 2004, and have clasped hands when it comes to the development of several technologies, including the use of ammonia as a fuel. The Wildlander is different from the other RAV4 in China (one that's actually called the RAV4), which is being sold by FAW Toyota.

PHEV's Absent In China For Now
The yet-to-be-launched new Wildlander was discovered through regulatory applications filed with China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), leaked by Autohome. While the choices of powertrains in the US are limited to hybrid and plug-in hybrids, those who live in the world's largest auto market (or at least those who buy from GAC-Toyota) will have three options - one of which has a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine. The other two are non-plug-in hybrids, paired with either 2.0-liter or 2.5-liter engines.

Naturally, the base models get the ICE, with the gasoline engine producing up to 169 horsepower, while the hybrids make 150 and 182 hp, respectively. Based on the specs in the filings, the Wildlander will be slightly bigger than the upcoming RAV4, though pretty much everything is identical, including the wheelbase. It's unclear if the PHEV variant will become available, which was previously offered prior to this full model revamp.

The Wildlander Aligns With America's RAV4 Core Trim
China's Wildlander also adopts the styling of the RAV4's Core trim; the Rugged and Sport models weren't spotted in the regulatory filings, particularly the sportiest version, the GR Sport. The new model also defies GAC-Toyota's previous strategy to offer a version that looks distinct versus the global-spec RAV4. Both front- and all-wheel-drive versions are available in the People's Republic based on the badges seen in the images.

We're still waiting for Toyota North America for the price announcement of the 2026 RAV4, but we're not optimistic in this regard. With the bevy of upgrades from the outgoing model, plus the standard electric motor in all trims, we're expecting a substantial increase in the starting price. If only the US could also get a non-hybrid RAV4, then that would be good news for those who are working around a specific budget.