The Toyota RAV4 has always been a crowd favorite, and for good reason—it’s that rare SUV that manages to strike a balance between everyday practicality and weekend-ready adventure. For 2025, Toyota keeps the recipe familiar but sprinkles in just enough updates to keep the RAV4 feeling fresh. While the brand has dropped the rugged Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims this year, the RAV4 is still one of the most versatile compact SUVs on the market. Built on Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, it offers a smoother, more composed ride with handling that’s a notch sharper than most rivals.
Power
One of the RAV4’s biggest selling points is choice. Toyota knows buyers aren’t all cut from the same cloth, which is why the 2025 RAV4 offers three distinct powertrains—gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid (PHEV).
| Specification | Gas Model | Hybrid Model | PHEV Model |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L 4-cylinder | 2.5L 4-cylinder + electric motor | 2.5L 4-cylinder + electric motors |
| Horsepower | 203 hp | 219 hp | 302 hp |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | CVT | CVT |
| MPG (City/Highway) | 27/35 (FWD) | Up to 39 combined | Up to 94 MPGe combined |
| Electric Range | N/A | N/A | Up to 42 miles |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD | AWD | AWD |
The base gas version is adequate for most daily commutes, though its 203 hp won’t exactly wow thrill-seekers. The hybrid option steps it up with 219 hp and an impressive combined efficiency of nearly 39 MPG—perfect for urban drivers who rack up miles. Then comes the star of the lineup: the RAV4 PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid). With 302 hp, standard AWD, and up to 42 miles of electric-only range, it’s easily the most spirited of the bunch while also being the most eco-friendly. For short city commutes, you could realistically run it almost entirely on battery power.
Cabin Tech
Inside, the RAV4 has always leaned more functional than flashy, and that theme continues for 2025. You get an 8-inch touchscreen standard, but step into trims like the XLE Premium or Limited, and it grows into a 10.5-inch infotainment display alongside a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across trims—no more fumbling with cables. Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.5 suite also comes baked in, with must-haves like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. If you go higher up the ladder, you can add blind-spot monitoring, a 360-degree camera, and even a digital rearview mirror for better visibility in tight city parking.
Comfort Meets Utility
The RAV4 has always scored high in practicality, and the 2025 version doesn’t disappoint. The cabin easily accommodates five passengers, with rear seats offering plenty of space for adults. Cargo capacity is a strong point too—tests show it can swallow 10 carry-on suitcases behind the rear seats and up to 22 with seats folded flat.
Trim levels play a big role in comfort. The base LE is simple, with cloth upholstery and manual climate controls. Step into an XLE Premium or Limited, and things get plush with faux-leather upholstery, a power liftgate, dual-zone climate control, and even a moonroof for that airy cabin vibe. Meanwhile, the Woodland Edition hybrid adds some adventure-ready flair with rugged styling touches and a handy 120V power outlet in the cargo bay—perfect for plugging in camping gear.
What’s Missing in 2025
It’s not all roses. The decision to axe the Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims may disappoint buyers who wanted a more rugged edge straight from the factory. While the gas model is reliable, it feels a little underpowered when compared with rivals like the Mazda CX-50, which delivers a bit more punch. The base LE trim also misses out on features that competitors such as the Honda CR-V now include as standard.
That said, Toyota’s looking ahead. Rumors and early announcements hint that the 2026 RAV4 will go hybrid-only, packing up to 320 hp in the PHEV with a 50-mile EV range. A new GR Sport trim is expected, along with the latest Toyota Safety Sense 4.0. So while the 2025 model plays it safe, the next one promises something bolder.
Why It’s Still Worth a Look
At a starting price just over $30,000, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 makes a strong case for itself. It’s reliable, efficient, and family-friendly—exactly what most buyers in this segment are looking for. Throw in Toyota’s standard two years of free maintenance and excellent resale value, and you’re looking at one of the most financially sensible SUVs out there.
It might not be the flashiest or most rugged, but the RAV4 delivers where it counts: fuel savings, peace of mind, and plenty of space for life’s gear. If you’re the type who values long-term dependability and hassle-free ownership, this SUV still belongs on your shortlist.
FAQs
What’s new in the 2025 Toyota RAV4 compared to last year?
The Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims have been discontinued, but the RAV4 continues with updated tech and hybrid/PHEV options.
How much does the 2025 RAV4 cost?
The base LE starts just above $30,000, with hybrids and PHEVs climbing higher depending on trim and options.
What’s the electric-only range of the RAV4 PHEV?
It can run up to 42 miles on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes.
Is the RAV4 good for families?
Yes, it seats five comfortably and offers class-leading cargo space, making it a solid pick for families.
Should I wait for the 2026 RAV4 instead?
If you want the latest tech and hybrid-only options, waiting might make sense. But if you need a reliable SUV now, the 2025 model is still a smart buy.
