Toyota is taking a unique approach in the world’s largest auto market by offering not one, but two versions of their global bestseller, the RAV4. Alongside the familiar RAV4, Toyota introduces the Wildlander, exclusively for the Chinese market. This SUV is produced through a joint venture with GAC, while the RAV4 is crafted in collaboration with FAW.
As the sixth-generation RAV4 makes its way into Western markets, Toyota’s Chinese division is gearing up to launch an updated Wildlander. Leaked images of the upcoming model have surfaced online, giving us an early glimpse through the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT)’s website.
Toyota’s best-selling SUV gets a “twin” sibling.
Unlike its predecessor, which featured distinct head and tail designs, the new Wildlander mirrors the global RAV4’s overall design. Of course, there are some technical differences to set it apart.
Aside from the “Wildlander” badge on the rear hatch, this China-exclusive C-segment SUV closely resembles the RAV4 Core variant. This is evident in the honeycomb grille painted body color and the low-mounted skid plates on both the front and rear bumpers.
Toyota RAV4 Core 2026: A sleek and stylish SUV.
Based on the leaked design, it appears that the more off-road-oriented styles of the new RAV4, such as the Woodland and Adventure trims, along with the sporty GR Sport version, will not be offered on the China-exclusive Wildlander.
Two distinct wheel designs offered on the 2026 Toyota Wildlander.
According to specifications from Chinese regulatory documents, the new Wildlander measures 4,600 mm in length, 1,855 mm in width, and 1,680 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,690 mm. These dimensions are essentially identical to the RAV4 sold in Europe and North America.
The 2026 Toyota Wildlander sports a redesigned rear end, aligning with the RAV4’s aesthetics.
The most significant difference between the Wildlander and the RAV4 lies under the hood. While the global RAV4 has fully embraced electrification, the China-exclusive Wildlander retains traditional gasoline engine options.
The standard Wildlander is powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 169 horsepower. It is offered with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Additionally, there are two self-charging hybrid variants available.
The first hybrid powertrain combines a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, generating a total of 150 horsepower. The second hybrid option pairs a 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor, resulting in 182 horsepower. Both hybrid setups are available with front-wheel drive or an E-Four all-wheel-drive system. Notably, Toyota has not introduced a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant for the RAV4’s “twin.”
The updated Wildlander is expected to make its official debut in the Chinese market in the coming months.
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