Toyota’s popular SUV, the RAV4, is expected to undergo a full model change for the sixth generation and be released around October 2025. The current model was released in 2019, and more than five years have passed since then. Past RAV4 models have usually undergone a full model change every six years, and considering this trend, it is highly likely that the sixth generation will also undergo its next full model change around October 2025. In this article, we will thoroughly investigate the latest information on the new RAV4 and predict the design, specifications, release date, etc. In addition, we will provide a detailed explanation of the expected evolution of the new RAV4 and a comparison with rival vehicles.
About the new RAV4 full model change
Like the fifth-generation RAV4, it will have a more sophisticated exterior while incorporating an outdoor-oriented design. The interior will also evolve further and incorporate the latest technology. Specifically, it will have a 12.3-inch full digital LCD meter, a 12.3-inch display, and an electric parking brake and hold . In addition, the improved TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) “TNGA-K platform” will be adopted , as in the fifth generation , to improve the rigidity of the body and improve ride comfort. The fifth-generation hybrid system will also evolve and adopt the more efficient “THS II” . In addition, the next-generation “Toyota Safety Sense” will be adopted, which can detect bicycles during the day and pedestrians at night .
How will the design of the new RAV4 change?
This was taken from a CG image of the sixth generation model produced by the overseas automotive media “KOLESA RU”. The design of the new RAV4 is expected to inherit the strength of the current model while being more urbane and sophisticated. The design of the front grille and headlights has been revamped, giving it a sharper impression. The body lines have also become smoother, which will also contribute to improved aerodynamic performance. The rear design features horizontal taillights and a three-dimensional bumper, creating a powerful impression.
New RAV4 CG projection
The interior is expected to be significantly improved from the current model, with a large display and digital meter likely to be adopted. In addition, we can expect improved quality materials and more comfortable seats.
New RAV4 Fully Redesigned Next-Generation Toyota Safety Sense
The next-generation “Toyota Safety Sense” will be standard on all vehicles. This system includes “Pre-Crash Safety” that can detect bicycles during the day and pedestrians at night, and “Lane Tracing Assist (LTA)” that assists steering to keep the car in its lane when “Radar Cruise Control” is activated.
The latest “Pre-crash Safety with Collision Avoidance Assist” has further enhanced functions. These include detection at intersections, acceleration suppression at low speeds, and steering avoidance assistance in emergency situations. With pedestrian detection, the system uses millimeter-wave radar and a camera to detect vehicles and pedestrians ahead, and provides collision avoidance assistance and damage mitigation through warnings, brake assist, and automatic braking. The automatic brake operates at speeds of 10 to 80 km/h for pedestrians, and appropriately slows down depending on the speed difference. It also operates at a wide speed range from 10 km/h to maximum speed for vehicles, and can decelerate at high speeds even for stopped vehicles. In addition, functions such as “acceleration suppression at low speeds,” “detection of oncoming vehicles and pedestrians when turning right at an intersection,” and “steering avoidance assistance in emergency situations” have been added.
- The low-speed acceleration suppression function detects pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles directly in front of the vehicle when traveling at low speeds and suppresses acceleration.
- It can also detect oncoming vehicles going straight when turning right at an intersection, as well as pedestrians crossing from the opposite direction when turning right or left.
- An emergency steering avoidance assistance function that assists steering when the driver makes an evasive maneuver in an emergency.
The Road Sign Assist (RSA) detection range has been expanded to include reading major roadside traffic signs such as “speed limit,” “stop,” “no entry,” and “no departure” and displaying them on the instrument panel.
Lane Departure Alert (LDA) The LDA camera recognizes the white and yellow lines of the driving lane, and if it detects the possibility of lane departure, it warns the driver with a buzzer and a visual indication, helping to avoid collisions caused by lane departure.
Leading vehicle departure notification function If you are stopped behind the vehicle ahead at a traffic light or in a traffic jam and do not notice the vehicle ahead starting to move, a buzzer will sound and the display will show a notification.
The Automatic High Beam (AHB) camera detects the headlights of oncoming vehicles or the taillights of the vehicle ahead and automatically switches between high and low beams, reducing glare for drivers of other vehicles and helping to ensure forward visibility at night.
Radar Cruise Control: A millimeter wave radar is used to detect the distance between the vehicle and the vehicle ahead, and radar cruise control is adopted, which allows the vehicle to follow the vehicle ahead while maintaining a certain distance by adjusting the speed to match the speed of the vehicle ahead within the set vehicle speed. The millimeter wave radar and camera detect lane changes of the vehicle ahead, realizing smoother acceleration and deceleration control. Toyota aims for “zero traffic fatalities and injuries,” the ultimate wish of the mobility society, and is researching and developing various safety equipment and systems based on the “Integrated Safety Concept.” Toyota is also working to “develop safer vehicles and technologies,” and is strengthening a wide range of efforts for traffic safety through “participation in traffic environment improvement” and “traffic safety awareness activities for people.”
Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) Lane Tracing Assist [LTA], featured on the new Lexus LS series, is being adopted for the first time in the next-generation Toyota Safety Sense P. When driving on a highway or expressway, turning on the Lane Tracing Assist [LTA] switch while the radar cruise control is activated provides steering assistance necessary to keep the vehicle in its lane.
Advanced Safety
Intelligent Clearance Sonar (Parking Support Brake Stationary) A system that helps to mitigate collisions caused by accidentally stepping on the accelerator or pressing it too hard, and helps to reduce damage. The “Clearance Sonar” displays and sounds a buzzer when approaching stationary objects while driving, such as when parking, and now has an added function to mitigate contact with stationary objects. The sonar can also detect glass at convenience stores and other places. When a stationary object is detected in the direction of travel while driving at low speeds (15km/h or less), the hybrid system output is suppressed, and if the distance becomes even closer, the brakes are automatically applied.
Emergency brake signal (hazard lights flashing) When you apply the brakes suddenly, the hazard lights flash automatically.
If the driver continues to make no operations while the Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) system is in control , it will prompt the driver to take action with sound, visual and gradual deceleration warnings, and will alert people outside the vehicle with hazard lights and a horn while decelerating and stopping within the vehicle’s lane, helping to avoid accidents involving damage to the vehicle or other parties involved and reducing the damage caused by such accidents.
Digital inner mirror: Images from a camera mounted on the rear of the vehicle are displayed on the rearview mirror.
Advanced Park Remote Function: Provides on-screen and voice/buzzer operation guidance, and assists with backing into a target parking position confirmed on the screen and exiting from parallel parking by operating the steering wheel, shift position, accelerator and brake. In addition, a dedicated smartphone app is available, allowing remote operation from outside the car to park.
Panoramic View Monitor (360° monitor) Since it allows you to see areas that are hard to reach, such as diagonally behind or directly to the side of the car, you can spot obstacles sooner.
Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) uses radar to detect vehicles in adjacent lanes. If a vehicle enters the blind spot, an LED indicator mounted on the door mirror lights up.
Safe Exit Assist (SEA) When exiting the vehicle, the blind spot monitor (BSM) sensor is used to detect approaching vehicles, including bicycles, from behind. If the system determines that there is a risk of collision with the open door or with a passenger who has exited the vehicle, an indicator in the door mirror is illuminated to warn the driver.
Rear Cross Traffic Auto Brake Detects blind spots when reversing and alerts the driver. If there is a risk of collision, the system automatically applies brake control to help mitigate damage caused by a collision with an approaching vehicle.
Remote Start (App) A new optional service that allows you to start the engine and air conditioner from the MyTOYOTA app.
About the new RAV4 full model change hybrid engine
The 2025 RAV4 will be powered by a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine augmented by two electric motors. Front-wheel drive versions will have a combined output of 225 hp (228 PS), while all-wheel drive will have a combined output of 232 hp (235 PS). In fact, all-wheel drive RAV4s will be nominally front-wheel drive, but AWD capability will be provided by a rear-mounted third electric motor that kicks in when needed.
| Specifications | RAV4 Hybrid |
|---|---|
| engine | In-line 4-cylinder 2.5L direct injection engine D-4S + motor (THS II) |
| Maximum power | 131kW (178hp) / 5,700rpm |
| Maximum torque | 221Nm (22.5kgm) / 3,600-5,200rpm |
| Front motor maximum output |
88kw (120ps) |
| Front motor maximum torque |
202Nm (20.6kgm) |
| Rear motor maximum output |
40kW (54ps) |
| Rear motor maximum torque |
121Nm (12.3kgfm) |
| System Output | E-Four:232hp (235PS) 2WD:225hp (228PS) |
transmission |
Electric continuously variable transmission |
| battery | Lithium-ion battery |
| Drive system | 2WD/ 4WD(E-Four) |
| Passenger capacity | 5 people |
| WLTC mode fuel economy |
-km/L |
| price | -circle |
When will the new RAV4 be released and how much will it cost?
The new RAV4 is expected to go on sale after 2025. Prices will vary depending on the grade and powertrain, but they may be about the same as the current model or slightly higher.
How does the new RAV4 compare to its rivals?
Rivals of the new RAV4 include the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, and Subaru Forester. The new RAV4 is expected to outperform its rivals in all aspects, including design, fuel efficiency, and advanced safety technology.
Key points of the new RAV4 full model change
- New design: A more aggressive and sophisticated design. Evolved into a stylish SUV that looks great in both the city and outdoors.
- Adopts the latest platform: Adopts the improved TNGA platform, which improves driving performance and safety.
- Accelerating electrification: In addition to the evolution of hybrid systems, we can also expect the emergence of plug-in hybrid and EV models.
- Enhanced advanced safety technology: Equipped with the latest version of Toyota Safety Sense, providing more advanced driver assistance functions.
- Enhanced connected functions: Vehicles, smartphones, and cloud services are linked to improve convenience and comfort.
History of the RAV4
Considering past trends, the first and second generations underwent full model changes every six years. From the second to third generations, full model changes were made every five years and six months, and from the third to fourth generations, full model changes were made every seven years and two months. The fifth generation also underwent a full model change every six years and three months. Given this trend, it is highly likely that the next full model change will take place six years from now, around May 2025.
Released in May 1994.
It was released in May 1994. It was exhibited at the 1989 Tokyo Motor Show as the RAV-FOUR, and four years later, a prototype was unveiled at the 1993 Tokyo Motor Show, before being announced in May 1994. Kimura Takuya, who was a member of SMAP at the time, was used as the CM character. A minor change was made in August 1996. Production ended in April 2000.
May 2000: Full model change.
It was released in May 2000. It made its overseas debut at the 2000 Geneva Motor Show. It uses the same components as the Corolla, which underwent a full model change three months later in August, but the floor panel is specially designed like the previous model. A minor change was made in August 2003. Production ended in October 2005.
November 2005: Full model change.
Released in November 2005. It was the first commercially available vehicle to use the “New MC Platform”, an evolution of Toyota’s “MC Platform”. Instead of the traditional Toyota mark, the front emblem used an “N” shaped emblem. This was gradually adopted for models sold exclusively at Netz dealerships. A minor change was made on September 1, 2008. Orders stopped and production ended in July 2016. Sales ended in August 2016. The RAV4 in Japan will end its 22-year history.
Third generation RAV4
January 2013: Full model change (not available in Japan).
Sales began in January 2013. It had its world premiere at the Los Angeles Motor Show in November 2012, and was released in the North American market in January 2013 and in the European market in March of the same year. It was also released in Korea in 2013. In Japan, the third-generation “Harrier” was officially announced on November 13, 2013, but was introduced as a sister car using the platform of the fourth-generation “RAV4”, so it was not released yet. A minor change was made in 2015. Production ended in 2018.
April 10, 2019: Full model change.
April 10, 2019: The Japanese model underwent a full model change. June 8, 2020: The plug-in hybrid model “RAV4 PHV” was released. August 7, 2020: Partial improvements were made, with display audio (DA) and DCM (in-vehicle communication device) now standard on all vehicles. October 2, 2020: The special edition “Adventure “OFFROAD Package”” was released. December 1, 2021: Partial improvements were made to the Japanese model. The hybrid “HYBRID Adventure” was added to the “Adventure” model, which was previously only available as a gasoline vehicle. October 4, 2022: The Japanese model was partially improved, and the special edition “Adventure “OFFROAD package II”” was released.
to be decided
2025 seems like a good possibility.
The current RAV4 model has been significantly improved
Toyota will make some improvements to the RAV4 and release it on October 4, 2022. The “4.2-inch TFT color multi-information display + analog meter” used in the “X” grade will be changed to a “7.0-inch TFT color multi-information display + Optitron meter” like other grades. The higher grades will adopt a 7-inch to 12.3-inch TFT display (full LCD digital meter).
“In-car Wi-Fi” is now available as an option for the display audio . ” Nanoe X ” is now standard equipment. New body colors have been added. The latest preventive safety package “Toyota Safety Sense” has been added, which has been improved with advanced functions. Digital inner mirror recording function has been added (front and rear recording function) and the navigation system has been changed.
The “Connected Navi” is used in the new “Noah Voxy” and other models . A special edition ” Adventure “OFFROAD package II” ” will be available.
It is equipped with the latest enhanced preventive safety package, “Toyota Safety Sense . “
Added digital inner mirror recording function (front and rear recording function) .
The navigation system has been changed to “Connected Navi . “
HDMI and in-car Wi-Fi are available as options . The USB port has been changed from Type A to Type C.
The special edition ” Adventure OFFROAD Package II ” is available for gasoline and hybrid vehicles .
Special edition vehicle “Adventure “OFFROAD package II””
A new special edition vehicle, the ” Adventure “OFFROAD package II” ” will be added to the lineup. It will be available on gasoline models and new hybrid vehicles. Based on the “Adventure” grade, the front bumper, door mirrors, etc. are finished with the “GORI GORI BLACK” paint, which is made by layering paint and has a texture with a subdued luster, emphasizing the off-road image. The body colors are two exclusive two-tone colors, ” Attitude Black Mica (218) x Urban Khaki (6X3) [2ZF] ” and ” Attitude Black Mica (218) x Grayish Blue (8W2) [2VV] “.
About the RAV4 PRIME PHV model
The new “RAV4 PHV” is equipped with a newly developed plug-in hybrid system “THS II Plug-in” that adds a large-capacity lithium-ion battery (lithium-ion electric energy 8.8kWh) and a powerful motor to the “in-line 4-cylinder 2.5L direct injection engine D-4S + motor (THS II)”. The system output is 302 HP (225 kW / 306 PS), which is 83 HP (62 kW / 84 PS) more than the “RAV4” hybrid model. In addition, it adopts the 4WD model “E-Four” (electric 4WD system), which is not available in the “Prius PHV” .
The all-electric range is 39 miles (63 km) and the WLTC fuel economy is 95 km/L , making it the longest-range PHEV crossover on the market. Additionally, the model achieves an estimated combined fuel economy rating of 90 MPGe. The WLTC hybrid fuel economy is 22.2 km/L.
Acceleration performance is 0-100km/h in 6.0 seconds . This is faster than the RAV4 Hybrid, making it the second fastest in Toyota’s lineup . The cruising range is over 1,300km , which is a “go anywhere” distance.
The RAV4 PHV can use the power stored in its large-capacity battery for more than just driving. In addition to using it inside the car with the outlet installed inside, you can also plug the included vehicle power connector into a standard charging inlet to turn it into a 100V external power supply outlet. Supports up to 1500W in total.
By connecting a V2H device (sold separately) to the quick charging inlet (with external power supply function [V2H]), the RAV4 PHV can supply power to buildings, etc.
The exterior is equipped with vertical LED daytime running lights, which are not available on the regular RAV4, creating a clean and luxurious impression. The body color is a new color exclusive to the RAV4 PHV, Emotional Red II.
RAV4 sales volume in 2024
| Date | Gasoline vehicles | Hybrid vehicles | PHEV vehicle | total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January 2024 | 1,090 units | 1,040 units | 140 | 2,270 units |
| February 2024 | 1,160 units | 1,140 units | 130 | 2,430 units |
| March 2024 | 1,570 units | 1,440 units | 120 | 3,130 units |
| April 2024 | 1,040 units | 1,460 units | 150 | 2,650 units |
| May 2024 | 930 units | 1,680 units | 60 | 2,670 units |
| June 2024 | 1,190 | 1,820 | 60 | 3,068 units |
| total | 5,790 units | 6,760 units | 600 units | 13,150 units |
Toyota RAV4 registration numbers Source: Japan Automobile Dealers Association
The monthly sales target announced in April 2019 when the RAV4 was released was 5,400 units. However , as of 2024, the company is producing and selling an average of just over 2,500 units, far below that target figure .
New RAV4 Full Model Change Q&A
When will the new RAV4 undergo a full model change?
-
Although there has been no official announcement at this time, the most likely scenario is that it will be released around October 2025.
What is the RAV4 model change cycle?
-
The RAV4 undergoes a full model change cycle approximately every 5 to 6 years.
What changes are expected for the next-generation RAV4?
-
The design will be more aggressive and sophisticated, and in terms of functionality, the latest preventive safety package “Toyota Safety Sense” will be further evolved and connected technology will be strengthened. The electrification of the powertrain will accelerate, and the appearance of more efficient hybrid systems and plug-in hybrid models is also possible.
What changes are expected from the 5th to 6th generation RAV4?
-
Expectations are high for a revamped design, improved functionality, and increased electrification.
Could the Hammerhead be featured in the new RAV4?
-
There is no solid information regarding the adoption of the Hammerhead.
A word from the editorial department
The new RAV4’s full model change is sure to have a major impact on the SUV market. With its aggressive design, the latest technology, and accelerated electrification, the RAV4 will evolve into an even more attractive SUV. We can’t wait for its release in 2025. We will let you know as soon as we have new information.
RAV4 Related Articles
Toyota RAV4
Toyota