The 2026 Suzuki Across: A RAV4 by Any Other Name

Revealed in early February 2026, the new Suzuki Across is the second-generation version of the brand’s flagship plug-in hybrid SUV. And make no mistake—this is a Toyota RAV4 PHEV through and through.

What’s Different?

Suzuki has made modest visual changes to distinguish its version: a unique front grille and bumper design, Suzuki-specific 18-inch dark grey alloy wheels, and Suzuki badging on the grille, tailgate, and steering wheel. Four colours are offered including Massive Grey Metallic and Ever Rest Metallic.

Inside, it’s virtually identical to the RAV4—right down to the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, the 12.9-inch central touchscreen, and even the head-up display.

Standard Equipment

The Across comes generously equipped with 10-way power driver’s seat with memory, heated front seats, wireless charging, five USB-C ports, hands-free power tailgate with gesture control, 360-degree camera, and a full suite of Toyota Safety Sense features.

RAV4 vs. Across: Spot the Difference

The differences are purely cosmetic. Even the cargo space is identical at 466 litres—down slightly from the previous generation due to the larger battery pack.

How Did This Happen? The Toyota-Suzuki Partnership Explained

This badge-engineering arrangement isn’t new. The original Across launched in 2020 as part of a broader capital alliance between Toyota and Suzuki that began in 2019.

The logic is simple: Toyota gains access to Suzuki’s small-car expertise and emerging markets footprint, while Suzuki gets Toyota’s electrified technology and platforms without the massive R&D investment. It’s a win-win.

But here’s the interesting part: Toyota initially resisted sharing the RAV4. The platform is core to Toyota’s global lineup, and allowing a competitor—even a partner—to badge-engineer it was a significant strategic shift. The fact that Suzuki secured the RAV4 (twice) speaks to how valuable Suzuki’s small-car portfolio is to Toyota’s broader ambitions.

What Does This Mean for Toyota Getting the Jimny or Swift?

This is where things get genuinely exciting. The partnership has already flowed both ways.

Toyota Already Sells Suzuki-Origin Models

• Toyota Starlet / Starlet Cross = Suzuki Baleno / Fronx
• Toyota Urban Cruiser = Suzuki Grand Vitara
• Toyota Vitz = Suzuki Celerio

The Jimny Question

Now for the big one: Could Toyota get the Jimny?

According to sources familiar with the partnership, Suzuki has confirmed that the Jimny—previously considered “off limits”—will now be available to Toyota. Toyota has officially announced development of a Jimny-based entry-level Land Cruiser, expected to join the 79, Prado, and 300 in the Cruiser family.

This is huge. The Jimny’s off-road pedigree makes it a natural fit for the Land Cruiser brand. Toyota will likely add its own styling touches (think round headlights and “TOYOTA” script grille) while keeping the 1.5-litre engine and ladder-frame chassis. The new model is expected in time for Suzuki’s 2025 Jimny Gathering—which means we could see it within months.

The Swift / Swift Sport Question

The Swift situation is more complicated. Suzuki’s popular hatchback has also been considered core IP that Toyota couldn’t touch. But there are signs this may be changing.

Japanese media reports suggest both brands are developing new small performance cars for 2026:

• Suzuki Swift Sport: Expected with a turbocharged 1.4-litre mild-hybrid engine producing around 150 hp.
• Toyota GR Starlet: A potential reborn Starlet as a GR performance model with a 1.3-litre turbo three-cylinder.

Crucially, these are reportedly not rebadges—they’ll be mechanically unique, with Toyota potentially using the Daihatsu-based Passo platform. This suggests Suzuki is keeping the Swift’s identity while Toyota develops its own small car alongside it.

The Electric Frontier

The partnership is also extending into EVs. Suzuki has confirmed it will supply Toyota with its first production electric vehicle—the eVX-based SUV coupé—globally. Toyota will sell this Suzuki-built EV under its own brand, manufactured at Suzuki’s Indian plant.

South African Context: The Across Name Confusion

Here’s where it gets confusing for local buyers. Suzuki South Africa has confirmed the Across name will arrive in 2026—but it won’t be this RAV4-based European version.

Instead, South Africa gets the India-built Suzuki Victoris, a completely different vehicle:

• Compact SUV (4,360mm long)
• 1.5-litre petrol with hybrid or mild-hybrid options
• Front-wheel drive (Allgrip available on some variants)
• Positioned above the Grand Vitara as the local flagship

The RAV4-based Across is not coming to South Africa. So if you want the 224 kW PHEV flagship, you’ll need to buy a Toyota RAV4—or import a European Across privately.

The Bigger Picture: A Partnership That Keeps Giving

The 2026 Across is more than just another rebadge. It represents the deepening trust between two Japanese giants who realise they’re stronger together than apart.

For Toyota, the partnership provides access to Suzuki’s small-car platforms (Baleno, Fronx, Grand Vitara, soon Jimny), stronger presence in emerging markets, and compliance with emissions regulations through electrified Suzuki products.

For Suzuki, the benefits include instant access to Toyota’s hybrid and plug-in hybrid technology, a credible flagship SUV without years of development, and electrification expertise that would otherwise cost billions.

For enthusiasts, the real news is what’s coming next. A Jimny-based Land Cruiser is all but confirmed. A potential Swift-based Toyota small car is rumoured. And an EV developed by Suzuki, sold by Toyota is already in production.