Toyota’s RAV4 continues its legacy as the go-to midsize SUV, now in its sixth generation. The 2025 model upgrades interior comfort and connectivity, with larger multimedia screens, blue ambient illumination, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and additional active safety features standard. Available as petrol, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid, the RAV4 leads its segment in fuel efficiency and all-weather usability. The design stays crisp and athletic, with two-tone paint and updated lighting accentuating its SUV stance. Whether hauling family, outdoor gear, or commuting, the new RAV4 appeals to a broad range of drivers focused on practicality, value, and reliability.
What they’re saying
Good Comments
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“Superb reliability, strong resale values, and a comfortable cabin make the RAV4 a safe, sensible buy.” — Car and Driver
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“Hybrid models offer excellent fuel economy and brisk real-world acceleration.” — CarExpert
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“Toyota’s Safety Sense suite is comprehensive, and the infotainment upgrades are a major step up.” — Edmunds
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“All-wheel drive variants inspire confidence everywhere, from city to snow.” — Autocar
Bad Comments
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“Hard plastics in the cabin reduce perceived quality, especially in lower trims.” — What Car?
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“Steering and handling remain less engaging than some rivals, particularly the Mazda CX-5.” — Car and Driver
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“No third-row seating option; some may find cargo space just adequate for big trips.” — Carwow
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“Infotainment can be slow to respond, and screen reflections are a minor annoyance.” — AutoExpress
Key Specifications Overview
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Powertrain: 2.5L four-cylinder petrol, hybrid (petrol/electric), or plug-in hybrid
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Power Output: Petrol 178–203 hp, Hybrid 163 kW (218 hp combined, NZ spec)
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Transmission: 8-speed automatic (petrol); e-CVT (hybrid and plug-in)
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Drivetrain: FWD or AWD (AWD standard on hybrid higher trims)
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Fuel Economy / Range: Petrol: 7.8L/100km (33 mpg hwy), Hybrid: 4.7–5.1L/100km (up to 42 mpg), PHEV: up to 60 km EV range
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Acceleration: 0–100 km/h in 8.1s (petrol AWD), 7.4s (hybrid AWD)
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Weight: 1,490–1,695 kg (varies by trim and powertrain)
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Seating Capacity: 5
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Cargo Capacity: 580 liters seats up, 1,690 liters seats folded
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Safety Rating: 5-star Euro NCAP/ANCAP
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Price Range: £33,500–£46,000 UK; $32,460–$44,265 USA; AU$39,760–AU$56,650 AUS; NZD 47,990–61,990 NZ; €37,900–€49,000 EU
Key Specifications Table
| Feature | Specification / Notes |
|---|---|
| Engine / Powertrain | 2.5L petrol, Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid |
| Power Output | 178–203 hp petrol; up to 218 hp hybrid |
| Torque | 221–243 Nm petrol; 221–265 Nm hybrid |
| Transmission | 8-speed auto (petrol); e-CVT (hybrid/PHEV) |
| Drivetrain | FWD, AWD (AWD hybrid on higher trims) |
| Fuel Economy / Range | 4.7–7.8L/100km combined; up to 60km electric on PHEV |
| Acceleration (0-100) | 7.4–8.1 sec (varies by engine/AWD/FWD) |
| Weight | 1,490–1,695 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Cargo Capacity | 580L up / 1,690L folded |
| Safety Rating | 5-star Euro NCAP/ANCAP |
Price Range Table
(Ordered: £UK, $USA, AUS, NZ, EU)
| Region / Country | Trim Levels Available | Price Range (Local Currency) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | Icon, Design, Excel, Dynamic | £33,500–£46,000 | Hybrid and petrol, AWD available |
| United States | LE, XLE, XLE Premium, Limited, Woodland, Hybrid SE/XSE | $32,460–$44,265 | Plug-in hybrid SE starts at $44,265 |
| Australia | GX, GXL, Cruiser, Edge, Hybrid | AU$39,760–AU$56,650 | Hybrid AWD on most trims |
| New Zealand | GX, GXL, Limited, Adventure, Hybrid | NZD 47,990–61,990 | Hybrid e-four AWD most popular |
| Europe (euros) | Active, Style, Hybrid, Plug-in | €37,900–€49,000 | PHEV and hybrid in most countries |
Performance and Driving Experience Overview
The RAV4 is tuned for comfort and confidence rather than sport. Petrol and hybrid engines offer brisk, quiet acceleration with seamless transitions in the hybrid’s electric drive mode. AWD systems handle slick roads and mild off-road work with ease. Ride quality is well-damped and suitable for urban, highway, and light trail use. Steering is responsive but lacks sports car finesse; body roll is present but well-managed. The hybrid’s instant torque improves in-town drivability; plug-in offers silent EV operation for short journeys.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the RAV4 sports a contemporary cabin layout with practical storage and smart materials. Higher trims offer SofTex®-trimmed seats, ambient lighting, a 10.5-inch multimedia touchscreen, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Infotainment integrates wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, and an available panoramic view monitor. The cabin is spacious, seats are supportive, and cargo space accommodates most family needs. A power liftgate, heated/ventilated seats, dual-zone climate, and blue LED lighting are available on select models. Safety Sense suite is standard, including adaptive cruise, lane tracing, blind spot monitoring, and auto emergency braking.
Battery and Range Considerations
Hybrid and plug-in hybrid models use a 1.5–18.1kWh lithium-ion battery (PHEV) for electric assist and local EV driving. The hybrid manages sub-5L/100km efficiency with regenerative braking and seamless petrol/electric transitions. Plug-in models deliver up to 60 km (WLTP) electric-only range. All models feature a conventional fuel tank for extended range and easy refuelling.
At a Glance Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine / Powertrain | 2.5L petrol, Hybrid, PHEV |
| Transmission | 8-speed auto / e-CVT (hybrid/PHEV) |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD |
| Fuel Economy / Range | 4.7–7.8L/100km, up to 60km EV (PHEV) |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Cargo Volume | 580L up / 1,690L folded |
| Safety | 5-star Euro NCAP/ANCAP; Toyota Safety Sense suite |
| Infotainment | 10.5" touchscreen, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto |
| Price Range | £33,500–£46,000 UK; $32,460–$44,265 US |
Pros and Cons Overview
The 2025 RAV4 maintains Toyota’s reputation for reliability, everyday comfort, and practical features. Its hybrid and plug-in models lead on efficiency, the cabin is roomy and modern, and AWD versatility suits most climates. Downsides: harder plastics in lower trims, less sporty handling than class leaders, occasional infotainment lag, and no 7-seat option.
Pros and Cons Table
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Proven Toyota reliability, strong resale values | Cabin plastics basic in lower trims |
| Leading fuel efficiency (hybrid, PHEV options) | Steering/handling less engaging than rivals |
| Practical, spacious cabin with modern tech | No third-row seat or big cargo for some needs |
| Complete safety suite standard | Screen response/reflectivity issues reported |
| Confident all-wheel drive (hybrid and petrol) | Plug-in costs more than standard hybrid |
Overall Verdict
The sixth-generation Toyota RAV4 elevates the modern midsize SUV formula with efficient powertrains, advanced safety, and practical comfort. It suits families, commuters, and adventurers seeking a fuss-free vehicle that balances running costs, ease of use, and lasting value. Minor interior and handling criticisms are offset by its strengths in reliability, tech, and all-weather capability—a benchmark for mainstream family SUVs.
Sources
Car and Driver
Edmunds
Toyota Official UK/NZ/AU/US
CarExpert
Autocar
AutoExpress