Summary of "Toyota RAV4 PHEV 2025 – Is the Outgoing Generation Still a Great Buy? (ENG) - Test Drive and Review"

Product Reviewed:

Toyota RAV4 PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle), outgoing generation (XA50, launched late 2018)

Main Features:

Powertrain:
- Combined output of 306 hp (185 hp from combustion engine, 182 hp front electric motor, 52 hp rear electric motor)
- 0-100 km/h in about 6 seconds (under 6 seconds in normal/sport modes)
- All-wheel drive with traction control and trail mode
- Electric-only top speed about 140 km/h before combustion engine assists
- 18 kWh traction battery with usable capacity around 15 kWh
- Electric range approx. 75 km in mild weather; high 80s km achievable in colder conditions
- Fuel consumption when battery depleted: ~5.6 L/100 km city, ~8 L/100 km highway (with heavy driving)
- Can tow up to 1.5 tons
Charging:
- Accepts up to 7 kW single-phase charging, but typical home charging limited to ~2 kW
- Full charge takes 7-8 hours at 2 kW
- Fuel filler on left side, charging socket on right side
- Charging cables can be stored under the boot floor
Interior and Practicality:
- Boot capacity: 520 L (less than regular hybrid RAV4’s 580 L)
- Floor slightly higher in PHEV vs. hybrid, no adjustable or double-sided floor
- Rear seats: ample legroom and headroom, adjustable backrest, armrest with cup holders, two USB ports, air vents, Isofix anchors, no ski hatch
- Cockpit: fully digital instrument cluster, older infotainment system (new system coming in 2026 generation)
- Android Auto only wired (wireless charger available but does not support wireless Android Auto)
- Large storage spaces (armrest, glove box, door pockets), physical buttons and knobs for essential controls
- Traditional gear lever, drive mode selector knob
Safety and Driver Aids:
- Traffic sign recognition cannot be easily disabled (requires multiple button presses)
- Starts in electric mode when battery charged
- Virtual rearview mirror and 360-degree camera for better visibility and maneuvering
Driving Experience:
- Sufficient power and torque for city and highway driving
- Handling described as average, not sporty
- GR Sport trim features stiffer suspension and sportier looks but not dramatically different
- Brakes on test car felt worn and less effective compared to similar models (e.g., Suzuki Across)
- Soundproofing and visibility considered adequate

Pros:

Strong combined power output and brisk acceleration
Good electric-only range for daily commuting
Practical AWD system with trail mode and traction control
Well-designed cockpit with user-friendly physical controls
Ample interior space and thoughtful storage solutions
Useful features like virtual rearview mirror and 360 camera
Reliable Toyota hybrid technology and drivetrain
Reasonably quick tailgate opening (improved to about 6 seconds)
Towing capability of 1.5 tons

Cons:

Charging limited to single-phase 7 kW max, often only 2 kW at home, leading to long charge times
PHEV boot smaller and floor less flexible than hybrid version
Infotainment system outdated, no wireless Android Auto despite wireless charger
Traffic sign recognition system cumbersome to disable
Handling uninspiring, brakes on test car felt weak
Higher price point for PHEV models (€52,790 base PHEV, €65,420 for GR Sport with options)
No ski hatch in rear seats

Comparisons:

Compared briefly with MG HS PHEV (no detailed verdict given in subtitles)
Suzuki Across (rebadged RAV4 PHEV) mentioned as having better braking feel
New generation RAV4 PHEV coming in early 2026 with updated infotainment and other improvements
Chinese PHEV alternatives not recommended by reviewer
Premium competitors depend on financing deals

User Experience Notes:

Reviewer finds driving experience straightforward and effortless despite complex hybrid system
Electric mode sufficient for city driving and short commutes
Cold weather performance still good, with combustion engine warming as needed
Physical controls appreciated over touchscreen reliance
Charging infrastructure and speed a limiting factor for some users

Overall Verdict:

The outgoing Toyota RAV4 PHEV remains a solid and practical plug-in hybrid SUV offering strong performance, good electric range, and reliable hybrid technology. While it lacks the latest infotainment tech and some convenience features, and has some minor quirks (charging speed, brake feel, disabling certain driver aids), it still represents a compelling choice for buyers.