Software will be a key focus for Toyota and its all-new RAV4 as it rolls out its new Arene suite that promises faster performance and over-the-air updates.
Toyota’s sixth-generation RAV4 will be the first model from the brand to feature its new Arene software platform, designed to better compete against Chinese and Tesla infotainment systems.
Toyota describes Arene as the “first step toward fully software-defined vehicles” and has been in development for five years as a snappier, more responsive system that is currently displayed on either an 8.0- or 10.5-inch screens in the outgoing RAV4.
Toyota is yet to confirm the size of the screens on the new 2026 RAV4, but it will be available in two forms.
Underpinning Arene will be an always-on connection that will collect data from users around the world for Toyota to process with artificial intelligence (AI) that will inform future updates, according to Automotive News.
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However, that does not mean it will move away from the widely-accepted Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring that is commonly preferred over baked-in vehicle software.
Instead, Arene will still allow the smartphone layer across its touchscreen, but adds a dedicated home button that is always visible to take users back to the native Toyota screen.
At present, to return to the default infotainment screen from Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, users need to open the available apps and select the vehicle manufacturer.
All Arene-based infotainment systems will have wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity as standard, as well as supporting Bluetooth audio streaming.
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In addition to the infotainment software, Arene will also underpin Toyota’s latest Safety Sense 4.0 advanced driver-assistance suite.
According to the subsidiary responsible for developing Arene, known as Woven by Toyota, the idea behind the software is to improve the car over time without requiring substantial hardware changes.
“Software can be an added layer where we can evolve the car over time,” Woven by Toyota Chief Technology Officer John Absmeier told Automotive News.
“We say that we can help your Toyota grow old with you.
“So, in other words, it’s improving continuously. And the idea that you can use data and information from the real world to basically improve the performance of vehicles.”
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While initially Arene will form the basis for infotainment, digital instrument cluster, and safety system software, Toyota’s plan is to expand to its remit to also include powertrain and vehicle controls, as well as servicing and dealer tools.
“The Arene SDK and Arene Tools help shorten development times, and together with Arene Data, they accelerate the delivery of new and improved features even after the vehicles leave the factory floor,” said Toyota.
“This results in a driving experience that becomes more personalized, more adaptive and continuously refined over time.”
What this means for the new RAV4 gaining Apple CarPlay Ultra, which takes over all interior screens, is unclear, while Volvo will roll out Google’s Gemini AI assistant in newer models that are underpinned by Android software soon.
Full Australian pricing and specifications are expected closer to its 2026 launch date.
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