Before Toyota unveils the next generation of the RAV4, Japanese buyers gain access to a slightly updated version of the current model
November 29, 2024 at 08:28
- The Toyota RAV4 gained mild upgrades for 2025 in Japan, in what could be its last year.
- The FWD versions have been discontinued from the Japanese lineup, in favor of AWD models.
- All trims gain a few more features as standard, and hybrids lose the blue Toyota emblem.
Update 29/11: Toyota has officially announced the 2025 MY lineup of the RAV4 in Japan, confirming the demise of FWD trims alongside minor upgrades.
The current generation Toyota RAV4 is entering its twilight years, having been on the market since 2018. While we await the arrival of the next-generation model, the Japanese-spec RAV4 got what are likely its final updates for the 2025 model year.
The most significant change for 2025 is the removal of front-wheel-drive variants from the Japanese lineup, making the RAV4 an all-wheel-drive-only model in its home market. Specifically, gasoline versions now come standard with 4WD, while the self-charging hybrid exclusively features Toyota’s E-Four AWD system, which was already standard on the plug-in hybrid variant.
More: Toyota RAV-X Concept Explores Your Appetite For A Hardcore RAV4
The 2025 RAV4 didn’t see any major exterior, interior, or mechanical overhauls. Beyond axing the FWD trims, the most visible update is the hybrid model’s shift from the blue Toyota badge to a standard emblem, paired with the new HEV badge (featuring a blue dot) on the tailgate.
Toyota has also expanded the list of standard features across all Japanese trims for 2025. These now include Blind Spot Monitoring, Parking Support Brake, the 10.54-inch touchscreen with Connected Navigation, and puddle lights integrated into the side mirrors. Meanwhile, the plug-in hybrid model reportedly swaped its aluminum spare wheel for a more cost-conscious steel version.
The updated 2025 RAV4 is already available to order in Japan as of November 28. Prices start from ¥3,237,300 ($21,600) for the entry-level X gasoline trim, and climb to ¥5,661,700 ($37,700) for the full-spec Z trim with a PHEV powertrain. The rugged Adventure Off-Road Package II special edition remains available for 2025.
Production for gasoline and hybrid variants begins in December 16, with the PHEV following shortly after in January 6.
More: Toyota RAV4 Gets New Adventure Off-Road Package II In Japan, Makes Black Bumpers Cool Again
In the U.S., the 2025 Toyota RAV4 was unveiled in late September and retains its mix of FWD and AWD options. Electrified variants, including the plug-in hybrid, have also ditched the blue Toyota badge in favor of the new blue-dot HEV emblem on the tailgate. Notably, the U.S.-spec plug-in hybrid has also dropped its “Prime” moniker, simplifying its branding.
Looking ahead, Toyota has yet to confirm the debut of the next-generation RAV4, which is expected to break cover sometime in 2025. Earlier this year, Toyota officials hinted that the new model will take an evolutionary approach, focusing on strategic refinements rather than radical changes to maintain its successful formula. Additionally, the recent unveiling of the RAV-X Concept at the SEMA Show suggests that a rugged trim may also be in the pipeline for the future.
H/T to Creative Trend