Toyota RAV4 Review | Hybrid SUV | Features | Price Australia

The Toyota RAV4 has long been a favourite among Australian SUV buyers, blending reliability, practicality, and modern features into a package that suits both families and individuals. In recent years, the RAV4 Hybrid has become a standout, offering Australians an efficient yet capable SUV that balances performance with impressive fuel savings.

In this review, we’ll cover the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid in detail – from design and performance to safety features, interior quality, ownership costs, and how it compares to rivals like the Mazda CX-5, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, and Nissan X-Trail e-Power.

Toyota RAV4 in Australia – An Overview

The Toyota RAV4 has been on Australian roads since the mid-1990s, and it was one of the first compact SUVs to capture attention globally. Today, it’s among the top-selling SUVs in Australia, thanks to its combination of Toyota reliability, hybrid efficiency, and family practicality.

In 2025, the RAV4 lineup in Australia continues to offer multiple trims, with both petrol and hybrid options, but the hybrids dominate sales due to their low running costs and better environmental credentials.

Key highlights include:

• Choice of 2WD (front-wheel drive) and AWD (all-wheel drive) hybrids.
• Toyota Safety Sense suite as standard.
• Spacious cabin and large boot for families.
• Low fuel consumption, with hybrid efficiency as good as 4.7L/100km in real-world conditions.
• Strong resale value, with RAV4 Hybrids often commanding waiting lists due to high demand.

Exterior Design and Styling

The RAV4’s design has matured over the years. The current model strikes a balance between rugged SUV styling and urban sophistication.

Front Fascia

The front end features a bold grille, slim LED headlights, and a wide stance that gives it presence. Hybrid variants are subtly distinguished by blue Toyota badges, reminding you of its eco-friendly edge.

Side Profile

• Muscular wheel arches add SUV character.
• Depending on the trim, wheels range from 17-inch alloys on entry models to stylish 19-inch alloys on higher trims like the Cruiser and Edge.
• Roof rails and black cladding enhance practicality and toughness.

Rear End

At the rear, the LED taillights, sculpted tailgate, and integrated spoiler provide a modern yet sporty look. The electric tailgate (on higher trims) adds convenience for families loading groceries, sports gear, or luggage.

Overall, the RAV4 Hybrid looks equally at home in city streets or out on a regional adventure.

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid strikes a strong balance between durability, technology, and comfort.

Cabin Space

• Seating for five adults with generous headroom and legroom.
• Rear seats fold 60/40 split, creating a large cargo area (up to 580 litres boot capacity).
• Wide door openings make child-seat installation easy, appealing to families.

Materials and Finish

Toyota focuses on hard-wearing materials while still providing soft-touch surfaces in higher trims. Practicality and comfort go hand in hand.

Infotainment System

• 8-inch or 10.5-inch touchscreen, depending on trim.
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard.
• Built-in satellite navigation on higher trims.
• Six-speaker audio system in base models, with an upgraded JBL premium 9-speaker system in the Cruiser and Edge variants.

Comfort Features

• Dual-zone climate control.
• Heated and ventilated front seats (Cruiser, Edge).
• Leather-accented upholstery in premium trims.
• Ample storage spaces, including large centre console and bottle-friendly door bins.

The interior is designed with Australian families in mind – durable enough for everyday use, yet comfortable for long trips.

Performance and Driving Experience

The heart of the RAV4 Hybrid’s appeal lies in its 2.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid system.

Engine and Hybrid System

• 2.5L petrol engine paired with an electric motor.
• Combined power output: around 160–163kW (depending on 2WD or AWD).
• Smooth e-CVT transmission that prioritises efficiency.

Driving Dynamics

• 2WD Hybrids are ideal for city driving and commuting.
• AWD Hybrids add an extra electric motor for the rear axle, improving traction on wet or rough roads – great for camping trips or regional drives.
• Light steering makes urban manoeuvres easy.
• Comfortable suspension absorbs most bumps, offering a relaxed drive.

Fuel Efficiency

One of the RAV4 Hybrid’s strongest selling points is its economy.

• Claimed consumption: 4.7 – 4.9L/100km.
• Real-world usage often sits under 5.5L/100km.
• This makes it one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs in its segment, saving hundreds in annual running costs compared to petrol-only rivals.

Safety Features

Toyota takes safety seriously, and the RAV4 Hybrid comes with Toyota Safety Sense as standard across all trims.

Key features include:

• Pre-collision safety system with pedestrian and cyclist detection.
• Lane departure alert with steering assist.
• Lane trace assist for semi-autonomous highway driving.
• Adaptive cruise control.
• Road sign recognition.
• Blind spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert (mid to high trims).
• 5-star ANCAP safety rating.

Families can feel confident knowing the RAV4 Hybrid prioritises protection.

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Variants in Australia

In Australia, the RAV4 Hybrid is available in several trims, catering to different budgets and needs.

• GX Hybrid – Entry-level but well-equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, Apple CarPlay, and cloth seats.
• GXL Hybrid – Adds larger alloy wheels, upgraded infotainment, and additional convenience features.
• Cruiser Hybrid – Premium trim with leather-accented seats, JBL sound, panoramic roof, and advanced safety tech.
• Edge Hybrid AWD – Rugged flagship with unique styling, off-road features, and all-wheel drive.

Each trim balances value differently, but all maintain Toyota’s reputation for strong reliability and resale value.

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Price in Australia (2025)

Pricing varies based on trim and drivetrain:

• GX Hybrid 2WD – from around $43,000 – $44,500 drive-away.
• GXL Hybrid 2WD – around $48,000 – $49,500 drive-away.
• Cruiser Hybrid AWD – approx. $56,000 – $58,000 drive-away.
• Edge Hybrid AWD – approx. $62,000 – $65,000 drive-away.

While not the cheapest SUV, the RAV4 Hybrid’s fuel efficiency, low servicing costs, and strong resale value make it one of the best investments for Australian buyers.

Ownership Costs and Reliability

Toyota is known for offering some of the most affordable ownership costs in the industry.

• Servicing: Toyota offers capped-price servicing at 12-month/15,000km intervals, averaging around $250–$300 per service.
• Warranty: 5-year/unlimited km warranty, with up to 10 years on the hybrid battery if serviced with Toyota.
• Resale Value: The RAV4 Hybrid is among the highest-resale SUVs in Australia, often holding value better than rivals.

This makes the RAV4 Hybrid a very attractive long-term buy.

Competitor Comparison

The RAV4 Hybrid competes with several other popular midsize SUVs:

• Mazda CX-5: Stylish and fun to drive, but less fuel-efficient compared to the RAV4 Hybrid.
• Honda CR-V e:HEV: New hybrid entrant, spacious but with less resale strength in Australia.
• Hyundai Tucson Hybrid: Strong tech and safety, but slightly higher running costs.
• Nissan X-Trail e-Power: Smooth driving feel, but starting prices are higher.

Despite strong competition, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid stands out for its balance of fuel efficiency, affordability, and reliability.

Pros and Cons of the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

Pros:

• Excellent fuel efficiency.
• Spacious and practical interior.
• Strong safety package as standard.
• Reliable Toyota reputation.
• Strong resale value.

Cons:

• High demand means potential wait times.
• Interior materials in base trims feel basic.
• Not as sporty to drive as some rivals (e.g., Mazda CX-5).

Who Should Buy the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid?

The RAV4 Hybrid is ideal for:

• Families needing a reliable and spacious SUV.
• Commuters wanting lower fuel bills.
• Eco-conscious drivers who aren’t ready for a full EV.
• Buyers looking for strong resale value and low ownership costs.

If you want a fuel-efficient, reliable, and family-friendly SUV with the backing of Toyota’s trusted brand, the RAV4 Hybrid is hard to beat.

Final Verdict

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid remains one of Australia’s top SUV choices in 2025. With its mix of practicality, low fuel consumption, safety features, and Toyota reliability, it ticks the boxes for most Australian households. While supply and wait times can be frustrating, the payoff is worth it – you get a hybrid SUV that delivers strong performance, low running costs, and excellent long-term value.

Whether you’re upgrading from a smaller hatchback, downsizing from a larger SUV, or buying your first family SUV, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid deserves a spot at the top of your shopping list.