Toyota Improves Multimedia System, to Debut in 2026 RAV4
Toyota’s new multimedia system has now spread across the entire model lineup, which is a good thing, but there is still plenty room for improvement, especially when compared with the best systems on the market.
Well, guess what? Improvements are coming, starting with the completely redesigned 2026 Toyota RAV4, which is expected to launch in Canada just before 2025 is over.
- Also: 2026 Toyota RAV4: Five Things to Know
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The company wisely chose its most popular product—incidentally North America’s best-selling SUV—to debut an enhanced version of its multimedia system, the development of which was guided by customer and dealer feedback. While the system architecture is unchanged, it benefits from the new Arene software development platform enabling Toyota’s most advanced safety, security and connectivity technologies.
More Like a Smartphone
The user experience is centered on a 10.5-inch (standard) or 12.9-inch (optional) touchscreen featuring crisper graphics and intuitive icons similar to a smartphone. Meanwhile, increased computing power improves response times.
As Toyota explains, the configurable home screen will allow users to customize their preferred look using individual widgets for navigation, drive mode, audio, connected smartphone and weather. The widgets can be grouped into combinations of two or three, providing easy-to-view access.
Speaking of smartphones, the integration of 5G network connectivity—a Toyota first—will ensure better coverage, increased speeds and expanded features.
Next, a Quick Control menu has been added and remains always accessible from the upper right section of the touchscreen. Once selected, the menu will open to settings for frequently used items, such as connecting to Bluetooth, adjusting screen brightness or switching between light or dark mode, a one-touch call to Roadside Assistance and a shortcut to easily toggle on or off advanced driver assistance features.
Enhanced Voice Assistant
Prompted by a “Hi Toyota” or “Okay Toyota,” the native voice assistant now offers faster response to voice interaction. Why? Because a connection to the cloud is no longer necessary. For those who prefer Siri or the Google Assistant, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are still part of the mix, of course.
What else? Native navigation (including maps and turn-by-turn directions) is now available full screen in the digital gauge cluster. A drive recorder (fitted as standard) provides traditional dash cam-style functionality, recording and saving video clips using the vehicle’s external cameras. Plus, a new EV Domain menu serves as a one-stop shop for plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles, making it easier to control and monitor the battery’s status and charging sessions, among other things.
Oh, and one more thing: with an active Remote Connect trial or subscription, users can now control vehicle features previously unavailable via the Toyota app, such as turning on headlights and hazard lights, opening the trunk and more. Don’t miss our first driving impressions of the 2026 Toyota RAV4 coming up October 22 right here on The Car Guide.