For the eighth consecutive year, the Toyota RAV4 was America’s best-selling SUV in 2024, with sales exceeding 475k units. The staple of Toyota’s U.S. operations is likely in the final model year of the fifth-generation. The Hybrid variant, which accounted for about 44% of RAV4 sales last year, is expected to play an even bigger role in the incoming sixth-gen family.
While it could be in the final stretch, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid feels well-rounded, despite lacking the premium or tech-savvy interior of its competitors. It’s a carryover, meaning nothing has changed from MY2024, and here’s what we found:
Design
The 2025 RAV4 Hybrid carries forward the sharp, truck-inspired styling of the fifth-generation model, and looks sporty despite its age. The front end, with its sharp headlamps and split grille, gives it a unique presence. The Woodland Edition, which is my pick, stands out with bronze-finished wheels, raised roof rails, and rugged body cladding. The example in this story, the Hybrid XSE painted in Cavalry Blue with the Midnight Black Metallic roof, is my second favorite.
Personally, I’ve never been a fan of the RAV4’s rear-quarter glass. The shape feels awkward and lets down the clean lines of the rest of the design. Toyota offers a wide choice of colors across trims. I think the Army Green and Midnight Black combo on the Woodland Edition is the most striking look in the lineup.
As before, rain-sensing wipers, two-tone roof options, and LED projector headlights are available depending on grade. The rear spoiler, black cladding, and dual exhaust tips add fizz across the range.
Interior & Features
The 2025 RAV4 Hybrid retains its five-seat layout and practical cabin. Cloth or SofTex-trimmed seats are offered, depending on the grade, while dual-zone climate control is standard. Higher trims offer ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. Storage includes a large center console, side pockets, a rear cargo area with a reversible floor insert, and side nets.
I’ve been in the fifth-gen RAV4 Hybrid several times. The layout is functional, but it does look a bit dated for 2025, especially after experiencing what rivals like the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid and Kia Sportage Hybrid offer. I do like the mix of soft-touch materials and the row of analog controls. These are clear and easy to use, even if you don’t prefer touchscreens.
An 8-inch touchscreen is standard on LE, XLE, XLE Premium, SE, and Woodland Edition. XSE and Limited upgrade to a 10.5-inch unit. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard. The Limited trim also features a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, while other grades get a 7-inch display by default.
The streaming feature, which is carried over, works with Apple Music and Amazon Music. However, for Spotify, I’ll have to use my phone. I also found the infotainment system smooth enough to use, even if not class-leading. Test prototypes of the next-gen RAV4 hint that Toyota will revamp the displays, so we expect added functionality and a snappier experience.
Sitting in the driver’s seat, I always liked the low beltline and wide glass panels, which really help with visibility. I’m a six-footer, and legroom was good up front, but I felt the seat cushion was a bit short under the thigh. In the back, I had no issues stepping in or out, and the reclining seat was a plus. Three tall adults across? Upgrade to the Highlander Hybrid!
Specifications
All 2025 RAV4 Hybrid models use a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors and a CVT. The combined output is 219 horsepower. Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive is standard across all trims. Toyota is reportedly sticking to this powertrain setup for the incoming sixth-gen model, but should make improvements for better refinement.
The EPA-estimated fuel economy for the Hybrid LE AWD is 39 mpg combined. The drive modes include Normal, Eco, Sport, EV, and Trail. Trail Mode uses AWD, braking, and power distribution to simulate a limited-slip differential, but the RAV4 is not an off-roader.
Suspension and wheel design differ by trim. The Woodland Edition uses TRD-tuned suspension and 18-inch bronze-finished wheels with Falken WildPeak A/T tires. The everyday SE and XSE have a sport-tuned setup and unique design elements, while the Limited focuses on comfort and premium appointments.
Pricing
The 2025 RAV4 Hybrid is priced starting at USD 32,300 for the LE trim, and tops out at USD 40,605 for the Limited trim (base MSRP).
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.
