2025 Toyota RAV4 Gas vs. RAV4 Hybrid [Compare & See Which is Better]

Buying a dependable compact SUV used to be easy.

You could just decide on a Toyota RAV4, choose among a few trim options, and be on your way.

Now there are more pros and cons to weigh. The RAV4 comes in two models: classic gas-powered and fuel-efficient hybrid (there's also a plug-in hybrid variant, but that vehicle's availability is very limited).

Picking the right RAV4 can be tricky. But Sloane Toyota of Philadelphia is here to help you navigate the maze. We'll break down the new 2025 RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid's key differences and similarities.

Affordability - The RAV4 Gas Wins

The 100% gas RAV4 costs less than the RAV4 Hybrid. The 2025 RAV4's base starts at $29,250 MSRP. The 2025 RAV4 Hybrid enters the market with a $32,300 price tag. However, the hybrid has standard all-wheel drive. Opting for AWD on a base RAV4 adds another $1,400. As a result, an apples-to-apples comparison shows the hybrid starting at $1,650 more than the gas-only.

At the other end of the spectrum, both RAV4s have Limited trim levels. This top-of-the-line trim costs $40,605 for the hybrid and $38,955 for the non-hybrid, when equipped with AWD.

The hybrid is pricier because it has a more advanced powertrain that combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor. This results in higher production costs.

Fuel Efficiency - The RAV4 Hybrid Wins

The RAV4 Hybrid is more fuel efficient. That should come as no surprise. Fuel economy is the hybrid's top selling point and main reason for its 2016 release. The regular 2025 RAV4 FWD version gets an EPA-estimated 27 city/35 highway mpg. The hybrid offers an EPA-estimated 41 city/38 highway mpg. The RAV4 AWD gets an estimated 27 city/34 highway mpg.

Taking the RAV4's 14.5-gallon gas tank into account, the hybrid ranges from 551 miles to 594.5 miles per tank. The RAV4 ranges from 391.5 miles to 493 miles.

Standard Features - The RAV4 Hybrid Wins

The 2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid's base has more standard features than its gas-only sibling. In addition to all-wheel-drive, here's what the Hybrid LE offers that the LE doesn't:

• 17-in. 5-spoke light gray metallic alloy wheels
• Low-profile black roof rails
• Dual zone automatic climate control system
• Vehicle Proximity Notification System
• 1,750 lbs. of Towing Capacity (vs. 1,500 lbs.)

Notable same standard features include eight-inch infotainment touchscreens with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability, and Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5.

Specs  - Tie

The 2025 RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid share most of the same specifications, such as:

• Seating Capacity - 5
• Exterior Dimensions - Length, 180.9 inches; Width, 73 inches; Height, 67 inches
• Front Head Room - 41 inches
• Leg Room - 41 inches (front), 37.8 inches (rear)
• Cargo Capacity - 37.5 cubic feet behind the second row of seats; 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat

The RAV4 Hybrid weighs 310 lbs. more than its gas-only counterpart. That's because the hybrid includes extra equipment like the electric motor and battery pack.

Contact Us

Performance - The RAV4 Hybrid Wins

The 2025 RAV4 Hybrid performs better than the RAV4 100% Gas. The hybrid has 16 additional horsepower and can faster accelerate from 0 to 60 mph by 0.6 seconds. The hybrid's standard AWD also means better traction and stability under tough road conditions like snow and ice.

The hybrid's additional weight results in a more comfortable ride. Passengers won't feel bumps as much as in the gas-only The hybrid is also quieter. This is especially evident during low-speeds and complete stops, when the hybrid's electric motor is operating. The engine switch from battery to gas can also cause a vibration. But this is normal and necessary. The battery recharges via its regenerative braking mechanism and gas engine.

Reliability - The RAV4 Gas Wins

Most third-party consumer reliability and safety resources don't rate the RAV4 and Hybrid independently of each other. But available data from these sources suggest that the 2025 Toyota RAV4 Gas is more reliable than the hybrid. The gas RAV4 scored an 8.5 reliability rating (out of 10) from iSeeCars.com. The hybrid got 6.2. iSeecars.com also reported that the hybrid's average lifespan is 173,295 miles. The gas-only RAV4's average lifespan is 176,299 miles.

The 2024 RAV4 and RAV4 Hybrid scored 76s out of 100 in J.D. Power's predicted reliability study. Criteria includes vehicle owner experiences in areas of defects, malfunctions, and design flaws. As of this writing, the 2025 models haven't been evaluated.

Both are covered by 36-month/36,000-mile limited warranties and 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranties. The 2025 RAV4 Hybrid battery pack has a 120-month/150,000-mile warranty. The hybrid system is backed by an 96-month/100,000-mile warranty.

Which Should You Buy?

Think about the RAV4 Gas and RAV4 Hybrid's strengths. Determining which ones matter the most will lead to the right choice.

For most, the 2025 RAV4 Hybrid is the better buy. Its better gas mileage, performance, and standard AWD powertrain give it the edge. And it's really only a few thousand dollars more than the 100% gas.

However, there are certain scenarios where the 2025 RAV4 Gas is a better option. If you want a dependable SUV but are on a strict financial budget, the price difference matters. Also, if most of your driving is on the highway, the hybrid's fuel efficiency advantage is less.

If you're still unsure, contact us. Sloane Toyota of Philadelphia has lots of both new 2025 Toyota RAV4 models in stock. Access our complete RAV4 inventory online by clicking the above buttons. There, you can personalize payments and schedule a test drive. You can also fill out the form below. Our sales team stands at the ready to help you buy your new 2025 Toyota RAV4. Finally, free to visit us in person at 1546 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19111. We'll help you get into the RAV4 of your dreams.

Check Out These Other RAV4 Articles:

• Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Trim Levels
• Toyota RAV4 XLE vs. XLE Premium
• Toyota RAV4 Colors

*Base MSRP excludes manufacturer, distributor and dealer options, taxes, title and license and dealer fees and charges. Also excludes the Delivery, Processing and Handling of $1,395 for Small SUV (RAV4, RAV4 HV). (Historically, vehicle manufacturers and distributors have charged a separate fee for processing, handling and delivering vehicles to dealerships. Toyota's charge for these services is called the "Delivery, Processing and Handling" and is based on the value of the processing, handling and delivery services Toyota provides as well as Toyota's overall pricing structure and may be subject to change at any time. Toyota may make a profit on the Delivery, Processing and Handling.) The Delivery, Processing and Handling in AL, AR, FL, GA, LA, MS, NC, OK, SC and TX may vary. The published prices do not apply to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Dealer price will vary.