The Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) continues the brand’s offering of plug-in hybrid technology for 2025, following the model’s initial introduction as the RAV4 Prime in 2019. This updated model maintains the same core functionality, providing a manufacturer-estimated 42 miles of all-electric range and a 38 MPG combined rating in hybrid mode. It will now be called the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid to make the vehicle’s powertrain more easily identifiable, and the blue “halo” around the Toyota logo on the vehicle’s exterior has been removed.
The 2025 RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid is available in two grades, SE and XSE. It retains practical features such as 33.5 cubic feet of rear cargo space, seating for five, and 8 inches of ground clearance. Standard features include heated front seats, Blind Spot Monitor, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, while additional options like ventilated front seats, heated outboard rear seats, and a power tilt/slide moonroof are also available.
The vehicle’s performance capabilities include a combined system output of 302 horsepower, allowing acceleration from 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds. The SE grade comes equipped with 18-inch five-spoke wheels, while the XSE features 19-inch alloy wheels with red-painted shock absorbers. Design elements such as the black diamond-patterned grille, LED Daytime Running Lights, and a silver-painted front lower spoiler contribute to the exterior styling.
The 2025 RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid operates with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine paired with two electric motors, producing a total system output of 302 horsepower. The vehicle employs Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive, which combines the gasoline engine and electric motors for optimal performance. The 18.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack powers the vehicle in EV-only mode for up to 42 miles. When the battery is depleted, the system can switch to hybrid operation or be recharged via a standard household outlet or a Level II charger, taking about 12 hours on 120V or 2.5 hours on a Level II charger.
The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid offers four operational modes: EV, Hybrid Vehicle (HV)/Electric Vehicle (EV) Auto, Hybrid Vehicle, and Charge Mode. Additionally, it has three drive modes: Eco, Sport, and Trail, which adjust the vehicle’s performance to match different driving conditions.
The all-wheel drive system is managed through Toyota’s Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive, which activates when necessary. Paddle shifters are available, allowing drivers to adjust the regenerative braking system. The Predictive Efficient Drive feature, utilizing the navigation system, optimizes hybrid battery charging and discharging based on driving conditions.
Passenger space is unaffected by the battery’s placement under the floor, contributing to a lower center of gravity. The HVAC system, adapted from the Prius Plug-in Hybrid, is designed to maximize EV range by minimizing energy consumption.
The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid’s SE grade includes fabric-trimmed seats, a 7-inch driver display, and an 8-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen. The XSE grade adds a larger 10.5-inch touchscreen display, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, leather-trimmed steering, and other premium features.
The Toyota Audio Multimedia system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility and offers features like Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation, and Destination Assist. A JBL Premium Audio system is standard on the XSE grade, while the SE comes with a six-speaker system. Wi-Fi Connect is available for internet access and additional streaming options.
The safety suite includes Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which offers features like Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist. The Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert are standard, while additional options include Parking Assist with Automatic Braking.
The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid is backed by Toyota’s warranty program, which covers the hybrid components for 8 years/100,000 miles and the HV battery for 10 years/150,000 miles. The vehicle comes with ToyotaCare, offering factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles and roadside assistance for two years.
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid is expected to arrive at dealerships in late 2024, with the SE grade starting at an MSRP of $43,865, excluding processing and handling fees.
(Editor’s note: Hat tip to Evan Williams for the title recommendation.)
