2025 Toyota RAV4: 7 reasons to love it, 4 reasons to think twice

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The 2025 Toyota RAV4 may mark the last of its generation and, if rumors are to be believed, the last gas-only RAV4. With Toyota going all in on a hybrid Camry, it’s possible the next-generation Toyota RAV4 could head in the same direction. Those are just rumors for now, and the 2025 RAV4 still holds its place as a top pick for families, but there are a few drawbacks to consider.

There’s not much in the way of changes between the 2024 and 2025 Toyota RAV4. Model features carryover as the RAV4 prepares to enter its sixth generation within the next year or two. The only real significant change is that the Adventure and TRD Off-Road models are no longer available. In terms of the design, the RAV4 hasn’t seen much change since the 2022 model year.

Reason to love it #1: Budget-friendly base model

The 2025 Toyota RAV4 competes in a crowded segment where value is key. The Japanese automaker has done well in that respect, with a budget-friendly LE base model that starts at $28,850 MSRP. Of course, that price doesn’t include any other charges and fees.

Reason to love it #2: Safety comes standard

Toyota made safety the standard in every vehicle a while back, and the RAV4 comes loaded with safety tech. Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 comes standard and includes six active safety systems, such as Automatic High Beams, Lane Tracing Assist, and a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection.

Reason to love it #3: Spacious interior

The EPA classifies the Toyota RAV4 as a small SUV, but it offers a pretty spacious interior. The 105.9-inch wheelbase allows the RAV4 to offer up to 69.8 cu ft. of cargo space with the rear seats folded down. With the rear seats upright, cargo space sits at a respectable 37.6 cu ft.

In terms of passenger space, the RAV4’s second row is comfortable for most adults, with 37.8 and 39.5 inches of legroom and headroom respectively. The front seats are a tad more spacious in legroom, measuring 41 inches, but offer a touch less headroom, coming in at 37.7 inches.

Reason to love it #4: Plenty of connectivity options

Budget-friendly SUVs don’t typically come loaded with many connectivity options, but the RAV4 does fairly well in this arena. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility comes standard, as does the Toyota Audio Multimedia system.

If you’re an audiophile, there’s also an 11-speaker JBL premium audio system available at extra cost. With a subscription, you can also add a Wi-Fi hotspot to the RAV4.

Reason to love it #5: Standard 200-horsepower engine

The 2025 Toyota RAV4 comes powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. That combination delivers 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The Toyota RAV4 is also capable of towing up to 1,500 lbs. Not too shabby!

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