Toyota RAV4: new PHEV nails the family SUV brief
The previous-generation RAV4 was the world’s best-selling car in 2025, and with this new version Toyota is doubling down on sensibleness and common sense.
In the UK, the standard hybrid model was taking less than 20% of total sales, so Toyota has dropped it from the line-up, focusing instead on maximising the potential of its plug-in hybrid powertrain.
While the previous PHEV was offered exclusively with four-wheel drive, Toyota has now introduced a front-wheel-drive version too.
The Japanese brand has managed to eke more electric range out of the RAV4 by fitting a larger (22.7kWh) lithium ion battery, which is paired with a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and a more powerful electric motor integrated into the e-CVT transaxle.
The entry-level front-wheel-drive Icon model promises a range of up to 85 miles, but the Excel variant can only travel up to 78 miles on electric power – altough this is still a major step over its predecessor’s 48-mile limit.
Riding on the same TNGA-K platform, the RAV4 retains the same dimensions as the outgoing car, measuring 4600mm long, 1860mm wide and 1680mm tall. However, Toyota claims to have made some improvements to the RAV4’s packaging.
The rear seating area has been revised to increase boot space, while the battery has been relocated from the boot to the floor to lower the centre of gravity and increase body rigidity.
The front end has been restyled to align with Toyota’s latest design language, the hexagonal mesh grille being the most notable new feature. It retains the rugged aesthetic of its predecessor but now leans more heavily on the chunky looks of the larger Land Cruiser 4×4.
Icon is the base specification, featuring heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. Design adds 20in wheels and bi-tone paint. Excel introduces the option of four-wheel drive and gains leather upholstery and a head-up display. GR Sport then gets you lightweight 20in alloys (saving 2kg per wheel), a tuned chassis and dedicated GR styling elements on the grille, steering wheel and front seats.
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