What is a RAV4? The RAV4 is a compact SUV built in the Georgetown, Kentucky assembly plant and sold in North America by Toyota. The 2025 RAV4 is a compact SUV available in gasoline and hybrid versions, known for its blend of reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. It offers a range of trims, including LE, XLE, XLE Premium, Limited, and hybrid variants like the Hybrid LE, XLE, Woodland Edition, XLE Premium, SE, XSE, and Limited.
The RAV4 has a 2.5 liter 4 cylinder engine gas producing 203 horsepower, with an 8 speed automatic transmission and available all wheel drive (AWD). The hybrid models combine a 2.5 liter gas engine with electric motors, with 219 net combined horsepower offering enhanced fuel economy. This hybrid edition gets 41 MPG in city driving, 38 MPG on the highway driving and a fantastic 39 MPG in combined everyday driving.
Some of the key features for the 2025 RAV4 and new updates are listed below:
Transmission: The gas engine has an 8 speed automatic transmission and the hybrid models have an electronic continuous variable transmission (ECVT).
Drivetrain: Front wheel drive (FWD) is standard, with AWD available.
Plug-in Hybrid: The RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid has an all electric range of around 42 miles.
Technology: Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Exterior: LED headlights, available 2 tone colors and an optional power rear lift gate.
Interior: Leather seating, a digital gauge cluster and a Bose audio sound system.
Handling: Has a multi-link rear suspension system and AWD Multi-Terrain Select.
Pricing: Starts at only $28,850 for the base RAV4 LE FWD model nicely equipped.
To showcase this model, this week Toyota sent me a 2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid SUV to test drive and review. The base window sticker price for this Limited AWD edition is $40,205. The options on this Limited Hybrid Edition are: the Limited Grade advanced technology package for $1,025, the Limited Grade weather package for $815, the digital rearview mirror with Homelink for $200, the panoramic glass roof with front power tilt and slide for $500, the carpeted floor and cargo mats for $329, the door sill protectors for $199, the black chrome exhaust tip for $120, the wheel locks for $90, and the connected services package for $325. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP), including the $1,395 destination charge, is: $45,203.
After adding in the state and local sales tax, plus the DMV and dealer fees, the out the door and in your garage total purchase price came to $50,853. At just $147 bucks under $51 Grand, you get a great SUV with a mild hybrid driveline that has lower emissions and better fuel economy than most of the competitors in this compact SUV class.
The Toyota RAV4 appeals to a wide range of buyers due to its practicality, reliability, size and fuel efficiency. It’s particularly popular with families, young professionals, and those seeking a versatile compact SUV for everyday use and occasional adventures.
Here’s a more detailed look at the typical RAV4 buyer:
Families: The RAV4’s spacious interior, ample cargo space, and available AWD make it a great choice for families needing a comfortable and capable vehicle for daily commutes, road trips, and for hauling groceries and sports equipment.
Young Professionals: The RAV4’s stylish design, fuel efficiency and tech features appeal to young professionals who want a vehicle that’s both practical and fun to drive.
Outdoor Enthusiasts: The RAV4’s available all wheel drive and rugged design, particularly in Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims, attract those who enjoy outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and both water and snow skiing.
Value Conscious Buyers: The RAV4’s strong resale value and reputation for reliability make it attractive for buyers looking for a SUV that will hold its worth over time.
Safety Conscious Buyers: The RAV4 comes standard with a lot of advanced safety features, making it a popular choice for those who prioritize safety.
The Toyota RAV4 is often praised for its fun to drive nature due to a combination of factors: its responsive handling, comfortable ride and available sporty features. The Toyota New Global Architecture platform contributes to a stable and confident driving experience, while the responsive steering and reduced cabin noise enhance comfort during longer trips. The RAV4 also offers various trims and options, including sporty models like this Limited hybrid, allowing drivers to find a version that suits their needs.
So, call, click or visit your local Toyota dealer for a test drive, and a Bottom Line price review, on the 2025 Toyota RAV4 Limited AWD Hybrid SUV. And remember that the base price for a new RAV4 starts at only $28,850. Toyota – Let’s Go Places.
Be smart, stay safe, and just breathe. Remember, You Are What You Drive, and maybe, just for those reasons alone, you should Drive one, Buy one, Today. Have a great day, drive safely, and enjoy the ride, as the future looks nice and bright – Tony the Car Guy.
This Bottom Line new vehicle review is a Nut & Bolt and Dollars & Sense editorial provided by Tony Leopardo. Tony the Car Guy is an automotive writer, editor and publisher in the San Francisco Bay Area. If you have a question, or comment for Tony, send it to [email protected] and visit AutoWire.Net at www.autowire.net.