Following one of its best years in the U.S. with 31,093 sales in 2024, the MY2025 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid began reaching U.S. dealers in limited volumes over the fall.
We noticed only three differences in the electrified SUV, which is now in its fifth and likely final model year for this generation—Toyota phases out the ‘Prime’ branding for the new PHEV badge, the blue ‘halo’ is deleted from the Toyota roundel, and the ‘Plug-in Hybrid’ lettering has disappeared from the front fenders. Here’s more:
Design
While we’ll have to wait for the next model year for a visual overhaul, the styling of the PHEV doesn’t look outdated. From the outside, the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid continues its sporty image, while appealing to economy seekers. SE trims come with 18-inch wheels, while the XSE stands out with two-tone 19-inch alloys and black roof option.
A silver-painted front spoiler and black cladding help in highlighting its shape. Toyota has cleaned up the vehicle, deleting the ‘Plug-in Hybrid’ badges on the fenders, while retaining the ‘AWD’ badge near the rear wheel.
When I saw the Supersonic Red XSE, I thought it looked sharp, but if you ask me, Blueprint is the color that suits the compact SUV best. The example featured in this story is finished in the Silver Sky Metallic paint with the optional Midnight Black Metallic Roof, which is a popular choice.
Toyota has done a good job matching rugged SUV looks with sporty touches like piano black overfenders and a diamond-patterned grille. It doesn’t scream “eco car,” and I hope that doesn’t change with the incoming sixth-generation RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid.
Interior & Features
The 2025 RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid’s cabin is functional but doesn’t match the appeal of newer rivals. While red stitching, ambient lighting, and soft-touch materials on the dash and door tops offer a sporty feel, I noticed a stark contrast in material quality in lower areas like the floor console and dash underside.
Sitting inside, I found the cabin of the RAV4 Prime spacious enough for tall adults. At six feet tall, I had good headroom and legroom in the front. The seat padding felt right, offering adequate under-thigh support. In the back, knee room was fine behind my own driving position, and while shoulder space for three adults is tight, two passengers can travel comfortably. The cargo space is usable at 33.5 cu. ft., and since the battery sits under the floor, it doesn’t compromise space or comfort.
The 10.5-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia system on the XSE is crisp and quick. It’s paired with an 11-speaker JBL system. The layouts on the 12.3-inch gauge cluster are customizable, but I found the designs basic. Features like wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, cloud navigation, and voice commands are standard, with built-in Amazon Music and Apple Music streaming if you subscribe.
SE models get an 8-inch touchscreen, a 6-speaker audio system, fabric-trimmed seats with red stitching, and a 7-inch MID. Both trim levels offer optional heated rear seats, rain-sensing wipers, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic sunroof through the ‘Weather and Premium Package.’
Specifications
The 2025 RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid uses a 2.5-liter engine with two electric motors, producing 302 hp. It does 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds and offers a manufacturer-estimated 42-mile EV range. It returns 38 mpg (Toyota-est. combined) in hybrid mode, and offers 2,500 lbs. of towing. The 18.5 kWh battery takes about 2.5 hours to charge on a Level 2 charger or roughly 12 hours on a standard 120V outlet. An onboard 6.6kW charger comes standard.
EV, HV, Auto, and Charge modes let drivers control the flow of power, while Eco, Sport, and Trail drive modes adjust driving dynamics depending on the terrain and the driver preference. Electronic AWD is standard, where a rear-mounted motor powers the wheels when needed. Trail Mode and paddle shifters offer the driver more confidence in off-road or hilly conditions.
Pricing
The 2025 RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid is priced at $44,265 for the SE variant, and $48,135 for the XSE variant (base MSRP; does not include DPH fees).
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
