Toyota’s New RAV4 Infotainment Overhaul Changes More Than You Might Expect

  • Toyota is rolling out a new-generation infotainment system.
  • The tech includes AT&T 5G connectivity and new AI assistant.
  • It debuts on the 2026 RAV4 along with active video capture.

Toyota is revving up its in-cabin tech game. The automaker has officially revealed a major upgrade to its Toyota Audio Multimedia system in the US, one that will debut on the all-new, sixth-generation 2026 Toyota RAV4 before being rolling out across the lineup.

Related: 2026 RAV4’s Evolution Is More Than Meets The Eye

What’s in store? Bigger screens, faster connectivity, smarter voice controls, an integrated dash-cam style recorder, and even a dedicated EV interface.

And much of it engineered by a Toyota US team for a North American audience (sorry, no karaoke here). Let’s dig into the key features – which thankfully include a good old-fashioned rotary volume knob.

1. Tech Forward Connectivity

First up, Toyota has added 5G network integration powered by AT&T, meaning better reception, faster data and more seamless connectivity.

The base, as before, is Automotive Grade Linux, but this time with the added muscle of Woven, from Toyota’s Arene Software Development  kit, which the automaker says marks a step towards a software defined vehicle. Only a step? Other automakers such as Mercedes are already there.

2. Smart, Customizable Interface

Toyota’s New RAV4 Infotainment Overhaul Changes More Than You Might Expect
Toyota

Cabin tech is getting sleeker at Toyota. You’ll be able to choose between a standard 10.5-inch screen or an available 12.9-inch display and the home screen is now completely customisable with widgets.

You can arrange navigation, audio, weather, smart-device status all in a layout that fits you, something other automakers already offer. A new “Quick Control Menu” also lives in the top-right of the screen to get you to Bluetooth, brightness, ADAS toggles and roadside assistance with one tap.

Naturally, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are part of the package.

3. Voice Gets a Boost

Does the sluggish response of the voice assistant on your current Toyota put you off using it? The new one promises to be much faster because it no longer needs to connect to the cloud to understand your command.

You can ask things like “Hey Toyota, change the song” or even get it to do some simple math if you’re suddenly struck by the need to work out how much you’re spending on coffees every year.

4. Navigation + Drive Recorder Integration

Toyota’s New RAV4 Infotainment Overhaul Changes More Than You Might Expect
Toyota

Over a decade after Audi’s Virtual Cockpit made it possible to display a full navigation map on a digital gauge cluster, Toyota is finally doing the same.

Additionally, a built-in Drive Recorder feature lets the vehicle’s exterior cameras record triggered events or manual captures and leave that bulky screen-mounted dash cam at home. Users can view playback on screen or download clips via USB.

5. Personalized Charging

Toyota’s New RAV4 Infotainment Overhaul Changes More Than You Might Expect
Toyota

Everyone’s charging requirements are different so Toyota is introducing a dedicated “EV Domain” on the infotainment screen form which EV and hybrid drivers can set and control things like charge limits.

You can also start and stop charging through the Toyota smartphone app, whose list of functions has been expanded to include turning on lights and opening the trunk and windows.

Some of this content is long overdue, and none of it seems truly groundbreaking. But it could help ensure the 2026 RAV4 is the default choice in the compact SUV segment.

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Toyota


The Auto World

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