The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV that’s been a popular choice for a long time. It’s known for being reliable, safe, and versatile, which appeals to a wide range of drivers.
With gas prices constantly fluctuating and growing concerns about the environment, fuel efficiency is a major consideration for anyone buying an SUV. Nobody wants to be stuck at the pump all the time!
This article breaks down the MPG of the Toyota RAV4 across all its different models. We’ll cover the gas-powered RAV4, the RAV4 Hybrid, and the RAV4 Prime (the plug-in hybrid version) so you can see which one offers the best fuel economy for your needs.
Understanding MPG and MPGe
When you’re talking about fuel efficiency, you’ll often hear the term MPG, which stands for “miles per gallon.” This tells you how far a car can travel on one gallon of gasoline.
You might also see MPGe, or “miles per gallon equivalent.” This is how the EPA measures the efficiency of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. It basically translates the amount of energy an electric car uses into an equivalent amount of gasoline.
MPGe helps you compare the fuel efficiency of electric, hybrid, and gasoline-powered cars. All of these estimates come from the EPA.
2025 Toyota RAV4: Gas-Powered Model MPG
If you’re looking for a non-hybrid RAV4, you can expect to get solid fuel economy. Here’s what the EPA estimates:
- Up to 27 mpg city
- Up to 35 mpg highway
- Up to 30 mpg combined
Keep in mind that you’ll generally get slightly better gas mileage with front-wheel drive (FWD) than you will with all-wheel drive (AWD).
The engine in the gas-powered 2025 RAV4 is a 2.5-liter Dynamic Force four-cylinder engine that puts out 203 horsepower. It’s paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid MPG
If you’re looking for a fuel-efficient SUV, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is worth a look. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect in terms of miles per gallon.
Fuel Economy Ratings
According to the EPA estimates, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid gets up to 41 mpg in the city, 38 mpg on the highway, and 39 mpg combined. It’s important to note that the hybrid model comes standard with all-wheel drive (AWD), which is a nice bonus.
Hybrid Powertrain Details
The RAV4 Hybrid’s powertrain combines a 2.5-liter Dynamic Force four-cylinder engine with two electric motors. It also features a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).
Performance and Efficiency Advantages
The hybrid system is designed to maximize fuel efficiency. Regenerative braking captures energy during deceleration, and the electric motors assist the gasoline engine, reducing fuel consumption. Compared to the gas-powered RAV4, the hybrid model offers a significant improvement in fuel economy.
Plus, it’s not a slouch: the RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition can go from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.3 seconds.
Real-world MPG Considerations
Keep in mind that your actual mileage may vary. Factors like your driving habits, the terrain, and the weather conditions can all affect your real-world MPG. For example, in highway tests, the RAV4 Hybrid achieved around 37 mpg, while the RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition came in at 32 mpg.
2025 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid (RAV4 Prime) MPG and Electric Range
If you’re looking for an SUV that sips gas and can also run on electric power, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid, also known as the RAV4 Prime, is worth a look.
Fuel Economy Ratings
When running on electric and gas, the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid gets an EPA-estimated 94 MPGe combined. When it’s running on gasoline only, it gets 38 MPG combined.
Electric Driving Range
The RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid gives you about 42 miles of electric-only driving under ideal conditions.
Plug-in Hybrid Powertrain Details
The powertrain combines a 2.5-liter Dynamic Force four-cylinder engine with electric motors, giving you a combined net horsepower of 302. It also features an ECVT (Electric Continuously Variable Transmission).
Charging Information
Using a 240V outlet, you can charge the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid in about 2.5 hours. If you’re using a standard 120V outlet, it’ll take around 12 hours to fully charge.
Performance advantages
The RAV4 PHEV is quick, going from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds.
What affects the RAV4’s MPG?
Even though the RAV4 is known for its gas mileage, several factors can impact how many miles per gallon you actually get:
- Driving Habits: If you like to accelerate and brake hard, you’ll burn through fuel faster.
- Road Conditions: Driving up steep hills or constantly stopping and starting in traffic will decrease your MPG.
- Weather: Cold weather can reduce battery life, especially in hybrid and plug-in hybrid RAV4s.
- Maintenance: Keeping your tires properly inflated and getting regular maintenance will help your RAV4 run efficiently.
- Weight: Hauling a lot of cargo or passengers will reduce your MPG.
Choosing the Right RAV4 Model
With so many RAV4 options, how do you pick the right one?
- Think about your daily driving. Do you mostly take short trips around town? Then a plug-in hybrid might suit you best.
- Consider your budget. Hybrids can cost more upfront, but you’ll save on gas.
- Think about the environment. If you want to lower your carbon footprint, a hybrid or plug-in hybrid is the way to go.
Wrapping Up
The gas-powered Toyota RAV4 typically gets around 30 MPG combined. The RAV4 Hybrid kicks that up a notch to around 40 MPG. And the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid offers even better fuel economy when driven primarily on electric power.
When deciding which RAV4 is right for you, think about how you typically drive. Do you mostly take short trips around town? Or do you regularly hit the highway for longer drives?
No matter your lifestyle or priorities, the Toyota RAV4 offers a fuel-efficient option that can save you money at the pump and reduce your carbon footprint.