To go EV or not to go EV – that is the big new question many buyers are facing in
todayís car market. Going EV means saving on fuel costs but also means you may be limited to a relatively short travel range, adding to the fact that it may take a while to charge. Sticking to a traditional gas-powered car means you can travel as far as you wish, although fuel costs and maintenance may be higher. But what if you can combine the benefits of both into one already impressive vehicle? That is the 2025 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid.
The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid allows you to travel up to 42 miles on electricity (as an EV), then will automatically switch over to a regular gas-powered hybrid vehicle. Depending on your daily commute, you have the potential to drive for days or even weeks without ever using a drop of gasoline. That is the reality of the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid.
Called the RAV4 Prime last year, for 2025 Toyota has changed the name to be simply the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid. Still based off the RAV4, Toyota’s top-selling vehicle last year and the third best-selling vehicle in the world, the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid joins the RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid in the lineup.
Like the other RAV4s, the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid uses a 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine. But mated to that engine are two electric motors, one powering the front wheels and the other powering the rear wheels, thus making all RAV4 Plug-in Hybrids all-wheel drive.
The gas engine and the two electric motors make for a combined 302 horsepower, which is very impressive. That allows this RAV4 to hit 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds, making it one of the quickest vehicles in Toyota’s lineup, aside from the Supra. I bet you didn’t see that coming, did you?
With 42 miles of EV range, the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid should cover most people’s
average commute and daily driving as an EV. But if it doesn’t, the gas engine will kick in, and average about 38 mpg.
On a full charge and a full tank of gas, the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid has a range of nearly 600 miles.
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid is available in two trim levels: SE and XSE. The SE comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, a power liftgate, keyless entry/ignition, cloth upholstery, heated front seats, an eight-way power-adjustable driverís seat and automatic dual-zone climate control. It uses an 8-inch touchscreen. All models have wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot as well as safety features including adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection.
The XSE upgrades include 19-inch wheels, a sunroof, fog lights, and imitation leather upholstery. Upgraded tech includes a 10.5-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a premium 11-speaker JBL audio system.
Pricing for the 2025 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid starts at $45,615 for the SE. The
tester, an XSE, has an MSRP of $53,299.
The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid shares the same cabin as the other RAV4s, which means it is roomy and comfortable. Despite its compact looks, it can comfortably seat five adults.
Controls and switches are easy to use – and big – so using them with gloves on shouldn’t be an issue. The thick steering wheel is perfectly sized and there is a good solid feel to the shifter, both of which assist in a better driving experience.
The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid takes a slight hit from the other RAV4s when it comes to cargo room. There is about 33 cubic feet of storage behind the rear seat (as opposed to 38 cubic feet for the other RAV4s), but when folded down, that increases to 64 cubic feet.
The rear seats are the 60/40-split style.
On the road, the powerful RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid provides snappy, and somewhat
startling, acceleration. The surprising and unexpected power reminds me of when, back in the day, you could get a 2005-2012 RAV4 with a V6 engine under the hood. Few knew about it and even fewer bought it, but those that did were in for a pleasant surprise when they hit the gas pedal.
Unfortunately, the steering and handling don’t match the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid’s
acceleration. It’s not that the handling is bad, it just doesnít live up to the power.
Fortunately, the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid’s ride is smooth, quiet, and comfortable.
So, is the 2025 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid the answer to the EV question? It very well could be as it is an excellent alternative if you want to gently ease into electrified transportation. Its outstanding driving range allows you to use just electricity on short trips, with the gas engine ready to provide convenient power on longer trips. And boasting quick acceleration, a nice, comfortable cabin and plenty of cargo space, the Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid is a winner no matter how you look at it.
– Christopher A. Randazzo
By The Numbers:
2025 Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid
Base Price: $47,735.00
Price as Tested: $53,299.00
Layout: front-engine / all-wheel drive
Engine: 2.5 liter 4-cylinder with dual electric motors
Transmission: CVT automatic
Horsepower: 302 horsepower
EPA Fuel Economy: 38 mpg
[Visit me at www.carsbycar.blogspot.com or email me at auto_cran@hotmail.com]
