Is it time for the Toyota RAV4 to fall? Other automakers probably hope so. One rival SUV is starting 2026 with particularly strong sales. Could it finally outsell the RAV4 as the next-generation model goes hybrid only? 

The Honda CR-V gains on the Toyota RAV4 

It’s a good time for rival SUVs to take their shot at outselling the Toyota RAV4. The RAV4 has been the most popular SUV for years. But 2026 marks the year of its controversial choice of going hybrid. It’s no longer available with a traditional gas powertrain. 

But the Honda CR-V, which has been trying to catch the RAV4 for years, is still giving drivers the choice between gas and hybrid engines. 

In September, Honda celebrated 28,549 sales. Plus, 54% were hybrid models. According to Top Speed, this comes to about 15,1416 CR-V hybrid sales. During the same period, the RAV4 Hybrid only sold 12,830 models. 

The CR-V is starting the year with a 3.% sales increase compared to 2025. If it keeps this momentum, it could end the year ahead of the RAV4. 

However, the Toyota RAV4 just launched its sixth-generation and inventory is limited. Factories are being retrofitted to build the new model, causing temporary delays. Toyota dealerships are being encouraged to push other cars as production ramps up. 

So, the CR-V and its hybrid counterparts could lose their temporary lead as inventory levels rise to meet demand. Unless people don’t want to go hybrid. 

Until then, the 2026 CR-V starts at $30,920, and the 2026 RAV4 has an MSRP of $31,900. That’s only a $980 difference to go with the more popular model with a standard hybrid engine.